My nana has always had a knack for making things sparkle, and one of her best-kept secrets is a cleaning method that works wonders on car windshields and interior windows. It’s one of those old-school tricks that seem too simple to be effective, yet every time she uses it, the glass ends up looking spotless and gleaming.

I’ve watched her do it for years, and now I use it myself. It’s cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and surprisingly easy to do. The best part? It doesn’t require any fancy products or tools—just a few household staples that most people already have on hand. Beyond the visual appeal, having a clean windshield is essential for driving safety. Dirty or streaky glass can create dangerous glare, especially at night or when the sun hits just right, and can also obstruct your view during rainy or foggy weather. Clean windows also help your car look well cared for, both inside and out. Regular maintenance ensures that grime, dust, and other residues don’t build up over time, keeping your visibility sharp and your driving experience pleasant.

Nana’s method relies on just five things: white vinegar, distilled water, a spray bottle, a soft sponge, and a microfiber cloth. The process starts with mixing equal parts of white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. Give it a good shake to blend the solution. Next, spray a generous amount onto the windshield or interior glass. Using a soft sponge, gently scrub the surface, paying extra attention to areas with visible stains or smudges. After scrubbing, take a clean microfiber cloth and wipe down the glass using circular motions. This helps lift off the solution without leaving streaks. Finally, take a dry section of the cloth and buff the surface until it shines. What makes this method so effective is the vinegar. As a natural acid, vinegar breaks down greasy residues, grime, and mineral deposits that often cling to glass. When paired with distilled water, it creates a solution that dries quickly, minimizing the risk of streaks.

The microfiber cloth enhances this effect because it captures and holds onto dirt and moisture, ensuring a spotless finish. Compared to store-bought glass cleaners, Nana’s method stands out for being eco-friendly and gentle. Commercial cleaners often contain strong chemicals that can irritate your skin or leave behind residues if not rinsed properly. Plus, they can be expensive and clutter your cleaning supply stash. With Nana’s trick, you’re using ingredients that are not only safe but also already in your pantry. It’s a back-to-basics solution that doesn’t sacrifice quality. To keep your car’s glass looking pristine, it’s important to clean it regularly.

I recommend doing it at least once a month, but if you drive through dusty roads or harsh weather, more frequent cleanings can make a big difference. You can also take preventive measures, like avoiding parking under trees to reduce sap and pollen buildup or using a sunshade to prevent interior dust and UV damage. Keeping a microfiber cloth in your glove compartment is another handy tip—it’s great for quick touch-ups between deep cleans. Of course, even a great method can be less effective if applied incorrectly. One common mistake is using paper towels or rough cloths, which can scratch the glass and leave behind lint. Another is cleaning in direct sunlight, which causes the solution to dry too quickly and creates streaks. It’s also crucial to make sure your microfiber cloth is clean and dry; otherwise, you risk reapplying dirt to the surface. Lastly, don’t scrub too hard—gentle pressure is enough to remove grime without damaging the glass. A few questions often come up with this cleaning method. One is whether it’s safe for tinted windows, and the answer is yes—since there are no harsh chemicals involved, it won’t harm window tint. Another question is about frequency: monthly cleaning is usually enough, though you may need to do it more often in dusty or polluted environments. And if you’re not a fan of the vinegar smell, you can swap it out for lemon juice, which offers similar cleaning power with a fresher scent. At the end of the day, having a clear windshield makes driving more enjoyable and, more importantly, safer. With Nana’s tried-and-true trick, you don’t need to spend a lot of money or time to get impressive results. It’s simple, effective, and good for both your car and the environment. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how easy it is to keep your car windows crystal clear every time you hit the road.