Why does the inside of my windshield get hazy?

Haze on the windshield

Having the inside of your windshield hazy stinks, so you painstakingly work to make sure it is spotless. For the next few days, you swell with pride when you get in your vehicle and have a perfectly clear view. Then after a few days it happens - you turn into the sun and BAM - your view is clouded by a haze on the inside. How did this get there? The answer will surprise you.

The cause is "off-gassing", or "outgassing" - which is the release of gases—typically volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—from materials in your dash / interior. These gases were often trapped during manufacturing or absorbed over time. Vinyl and plastics have oil in them, and when heated by the sun they release that oil, which evaporates and sticks to the glass (the haze). It also makes it easier for dust and dirt to collect on your windshield.

Mind Blown

This is also why it is so hard to get your glass clean in the first place. The oil causes it to smear and smudge when you try and wipe it down.

I have found that the best way to clean a windshield is with a quality glass cleaner and a waffle micro-fiber towel (the secret sauce). A waffle towel does a much better job cleaning than a regular micro-fiber and will make all the difference in the world.

If you have any more questions, feel free to email me at info@jmacdetailing.com

Jeff