No, it is generally not recommended to use common window cleaner as screen wash for your car.
While both products are designed for cleaning glass, they are formulated differently for their specific applications. Using typical household window cleaner in your car's screen wash reservoir can lead to undesirable results, primarily affecting your visibility while driving.
Why Avoid Using Window Cleaner in Your Car?
According to the provided reference, a significant reason why you shouldn't use common window cleaner on your auto glass is its composition:
- Contains Ammonia: "Most over-the-counter window cleaners contain ammonia, which can create problems for your auto glass."
- Causes Streaks: "It streaks." The reference explicitly states this is "Not a good thing when you rely on your windshield for a clear, unobstructed view of the roadways."
Streaking on your windshield can severely impair your vision, especially in certain lighting conditions like sunlight or headlights at night. This reduced visibility is a significant safety hazard.
Screen Wash vs. Window Cleaner
| Feature | Car Screen Wash | Common Household Window Cleaner |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Cleaning car windshield/rear window | Cleaning household glass |
| Formulation | Designed for automotive use, often includes anti-freeze agents, detergents specific to road grime, may be concentrated or pre-mixed. |
Designed for indoor glass, often contains ammonia, may leave residues unsuitable for car. |
| Effect on Auto Glass | Cleans road grime effectively, designed to dry without streaks, safe for automotive paint/trim. |
May cause streaks, potentially harmful to paint/trim over time, not formulated for freezing temperatures. |
Using a product that causes streaking is counterproductive when the goal of screen wash is to provide a clear, clean windshield quickly while driving.
Best Practice
For optimal safety and performance, always use a dedicated automotive screen wash solution. These products are specifically formulated to tackle road grime, bug splatter, and other debris encountered while driving, and are designed to dry cleanly without leaving streaks. They also often contain additives to prevent freezing in cold weather, protecting your reservoir and pump system.
Using the correct product ensures you maintain a clear view of the road, which is crucial for safe driving.
