To clean foggy or yellowed headlights effectively, you can follow these straightforward methods using common household items:
Materials Needed
- Toothpaste (non-gel, whitening works best)
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Microfiber cloths or old rags
- Masking tape (to protect car paint)
- Water (spray bottle or for rinsing)
- Optional: UV headlight sealant for longer protection
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Prepare the area
Park your car in a shaded spot to prevent quick drying. Clean the headlights with soap and water to remove dirt and debris, then dry them thoroughly
- Protect surrounding paint
Use masking tape around the headlights to avoid scratching or damaging the car’s paint during cleaning
- Choose a cleaning method
- Toothpaste method:
Apply a generous amount of toothpaste to a damp microfiber cloth. Rub it onto the headlight in circular motions for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse with water and wipe dry. Toothpaste acts as a mild abrasive that helps remove the fogginess
- Toothpaste method:
* **Baking soda and vinegar paste:**
Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to form a paste. Apply it to the headlight and scrub with a cloth. Rinse and dry. This mixture is also abrasive enough to clear fog without damaging the plastic
- Buff and dry
After scrubbing, rinse off any residue and buff the headlights dry with a clean cloth. This will restore clarity and improve light output
- Optional sealing
For longer-lasting results, apply a UV headlight sealant after cleaning to protect the headlights from future yellowing and fogging
Additional Tips
- For tougher haze, you may need to repeat the process or use a headlight restoration kit.
- Avoid harsh sanding unless you have experience, as it can damage the lens.
- Some users report success with household hacks like rubbing an orange or lemon with baking soda on the headlights, then rinsing
This simple DIY approach can significantly improve headlight clarity, enhancing both the appearance of your vehicle and nighttime visibility
