Maintaining a clear windshield is essential for safe driving. One often-overlooked component of your car’s visibility system is the windshield wipers. Cleaning them regularly can extend their life, improve their performance, and help keep your windshield free from streaks and smears. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your windshield wipers in 11 easy steps:

1. Gather your materials: You will need a bucket, warm water, liquid dish soap, a sponge or cloth, rubbing alcohol, and an old toothbrush.

2. Park your car in a shaded area: Direct sunlight can cause the water to evaporate too quickly, making it difficult to clean the wipers properly.

3. Mix soapy water: Fill the bucket with warm water and add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Stir until bubbles form.

4. Lift the wiper blades: Carefully lift each wiper blade off the windshield and hold it securely.

5. Wet the sponge or cloth: Dip your sponge or cloth in the soapy water, making sure it’s saturated but not dripping.

6. Wipe down the rubber blades: Starting at one end of the wiper blade, gently scrub along the rubber strip using the wet sponge or cloth. Repeat this process on both sides of each blade, removing any dirt and grime that has accumulated over time.

7. Clean the metal frames: Using an old toothbrush and soapy water, gently scrub around the metal frame where it connects to the rubber blade. This can help remove any built-up dirt that may be affecting the wiper’s performance.

8. Rinse thoroughly: When you’ve finished cleaning both the rubber blades and metal frames, rinse them off with clean water to remove any soap residue.

9. Dry carefully: Use a dry cloth or towel to gently dab excess water from each wiper blade, making sure they’re completely dry before returning them to the windshield.

10. Apply rubbing alcohol: Moisten a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and wipe it along the edge of each rubber blade. This helps eliminate any remaining dirt and can prevent the wipers from smearing or leaving streaks on your windshield.

11. Return wiper blades to the windshield: Carefully lower each wiper blade back onto the windshield, making sure they’re properly seated and secure.

By following these 11 simple steps, you can help maintain your windshield wipers’ performance and extend their lifespan, ensuring a clear view of the road ahead. Keep your wipers clean and in good condition for a safer driving experience.