If you’re like most people, then you probably dread cleaning the rubber around your car windows. It’s a tedious and time-consuming task that many of us put off for as long as possible. But did you know that it only takes five minutes to clean rubber around car windows?
In this blog post, we will show you how to remove mold/mildew and oxidation from the rubber around car windows using household items.
- Key Takeaway
- What is Rubber Around Car Windows Used For?
- How To Clean Rubber Around Car Windows (With Pictures)
- How Often Should You Clean The Rubber Window Trim?
- How Do You Restore Rubber Around Car Windows?
- FAQs
- Q: How often should you clean the rubber trim around car windows?
- Q: How do I clean black rubber trim?
- Q: Can I use a toothbrush to clean the rubber trim around car windows?
- Q: Should I clean and protect the rubber trim around car windows?
- Q: How do I clean the rubber seal around car windows?
- Q: Can I use a trim protectant on rubber trim around car windows?
- Q: What is the best way to clean the rubber trim around car windows?
- Q: How should I clean the rubber trim around the window?
- In Conclusion
Key Takeaway
- The rubber around car windows, known as automotive weather stripping or weather seals, is used to create a seal that prevents water, dust, and external noise from entering the vehicle, and provides cushioning between the glass and metal parts of the car.
- To clean the rubber around car windows, you should gently scrub it using a soft cloth or sponge dampened with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent, and then dry it off thoroughly to prevent any residue or water spots.
What is Rubber Around Car Windows Used For?
The rubber around car windows, also known as automotive weather stripping or weather seals, serves several crucial functions.
Firstly, it forms a seal around the vehicle’s doors and windows to prevent water, dust, and other environmental elements from entering the car.
Secondly, it provides a cushion between the glass and metal parts of the car, preventing direct contact that could lead to damage.
Lastly, this rubber seal also acts as a sound barrier, reducing the amount of external noise that enters the car’s interior.
In summary, the rubber around car windows contributes to the comfort, cleanliness, and overall durability of the vehicle.
How To Clean Rubber Around Car Windows (With Pictures)
- Mix 33oz water with five drops of dish soap.
- Use baby wipes to remove any large debris from the rubber first.
- Spray the mixture onto the rubber and let it sit for a minute.
- Use a toothbrush to agitate the cleaning solution.
- Use a clean microfiber towel to wipe away the rubber.
The rubber around car windows is constantly exposed to the outdoor environment and it can be susceptible to mold and oxidation.
The most common place for mold and oxidation to form is on the edge of the window where it meets the rubber seal.
If not cleaned and treated, this can cause the rubber seal to deteriorate over time, which can lead to water leakage.
Here is how to clean the rubber around car windows:
1. Gather the required materials
- Toothbrush
- Bucket
- Dish soap
- Spray bottle
- Microfiber towel
- Baby wipes
2. Mix the soap with warm water
In a bucket, mix the soap with warm water, and then fill the spray bottle with the mixture. If you are going to clean all the rubber around the windows, you are probably going to need around 33oz of water and about five drops of dish soap.
Water and dish soap mix is great for cleaning rubber. The water helps to loosen the dirt, while the soap helps to lift the dirt away from the surface of the rubber. This combination is also gentle enough to not damage the surface of the rubber.
3. Wipe away any large debris
Before you get started, make sure to wipe away any dirt, grime, and debris that can be found on the rubber. The most common debris found on the rubber around car windows is leaves, stickers, and bugs.
The dirt around car windows is usually made up of tiny pieces of gravel and sand. These can become embedded in the rubber and cause it to wear down over time.
Later on, we are going to use a toothbrush, so we don’t want any dirt to scratch the rubber. You can use a baby wipe to clean the dirt.
One of the best things about baby wipes is that they are great for cleaning rubber. This is because they are able to remove dirt and debris without leaving any residue behind. In addition, baby wipes are also non-toxic, so you can rest assured that they won’t damage the rubber trim.
4. Spray the mixture on the rubber around the windows
Next, you will need to spray the water/dish soap mixture on the rubber. Let it soak in for about two minutes before moving on to the next step.
The beauty of the water/soap mixture is that you are not using any heavy chemicals and you don’t have to worry if you get sprayed on the windows or on the car paint. Just make sure that all of the rubber is soaked in the mixture.
5. Use a toothbrush to agitate the cleaning solution
Once the cleaning mixture has been sprayed and left for two minutes, it is time to use a toothbrush to agitate the cleaning solution. Agitate the cleaning solution using a toothbrush to help remove dirt and grime from the surface of the item being cleaned.
If you’re looking to clean the rubber around your car windows, it’s important that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can cause scratches and marks on the rubber, which can be difficult to remove. A soft-bristled toothbrush is the best option for cleaning rubber around car windows without causing any damage.
The agitation caused by the toothbrush will help loosen any dirt or grime that is stuck on the surface of the item. Continue agitation until all dirt and grime have been removed.
This is a step where all of the mold/mildew and oxidation need to be removed from the rubber trim. Depending on how badly the rubber around the car windows has been affected, you might need to re-do this step a couple of times.
6. Dry off the rubber trim
Make sure to wipe away any leftover cleaning solution using a clean microfiber towel. The key here is to dry off the rubber trim as much as you can.
Leaving rubber wet can warp and damage it, which is why you should always dry it off before putting it away. In the worst-case scenario, water can get into the tiny cracks in the rubber and cause it to rot from the inside out.
7. Final product
This is what a clean rubber around car windows should look like. The rubber should be free of dirt, dust, and other debris. There should be no gaps or spaces between the rubber and the window and the rubber should be stretched around the window evenly.
If yours is not as shown in the photo, you can go back to steps 4,5, and 6 until you get the desired outcome. Also, this is a great time to actually inspect the condition of the rubber around car windows and see if they need replacing says Charmic City Circulator.
How Often Should You Clean The Rubber Window Trim?
It’s recommended to clean the rubber window trim every three months.
This regular cleaning can help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and other elements that can cause the rubber to degrade over time.
It’s also a good practice to treat the rubber seals with a rubber protectant or conditioner after cleaning to maintain their flexibility and prevent cracking.
Remember, proper maintenance of these seals contributes to the overall longevity and performance of your vehicle.
How Do You Restore Rubber Around Car Windows?
Your car windows are an important part of your vehicle. Not only do they allow you to see out, but they also keep the wind and rain out.
Over time, the rubber around the windows can start to wear down and become brittle. This can cause water to leak into the car and make it difficult to see out of the windows. Here is how you can restore the rubber around your car windows in 8 easy steps!
1. Gather the necessary supplies
In order to restore the rubber around your car windows, you will need a few supplies. You will need a bucket, dish soap, a sponge, a scrub brush, window cleaner, and car wax.
2. Mix water and dish soap
Fill the bucket with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix together until the suds form.
3. Soak the sponge
Soak the sponge in soapy water and wring out excess liquid. Use the sponge to clean the rubber around the window. Be sure to scrub away any dirt or debris that may be stuck to the rubber.
4. Scrub any tough stains
Dip the scrub brush into the soapy water and use it to scrub away any tough stains or marks on the rubber.
5. Rinse the sponge
Rinse the sponge and scrub the brush off in the bucket of clean water.
6. Wipe the rubber with a window cleaner
Using a window cleaner, wipe down the rubber around the windows. Be sure to remove any streaks or dirt that may have been left behind.
7. Apply car wax
Using car wax, apply a thin layer all over the rubber around the windows. Let it dry completely.
8. Remove excess wax
Buff away any excess wax with a soft cloth.
FAQs
Q: How often should you clean the rubber trim around car windows?
A: It is recommended to clean the rubber trim around car windows at least once every three months.
Q: How do I clean black rubber trim?
A: To clean black rubber trim, use a rubber protectant specifically designed for exterior trim. Apply the protectant to a clean microfiber cloth and wipe it onto the trim. Allow it to dry and buff off any excess with a clean cloth.
Q: Can I use a toothbrush to clean the rubber trim around car windows?
A: Yes, a toothbrush can be used to gently scrub the rubber trim around car windows. Make sure to use a soft toothbrush and avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Q: Should I clean and protect the rubber trim around car windows?
A: Yes, it is important to both clean and protect the rubber trim around car windows. Cleaning removes dirt and grime, while a protectant helps prevent fading and cracking due to UV exposure.
Q: How do I clean the rubber seal around car windows?
A: To clean the rubber seal around car windows, mix a solution of mild soap and warm water. Use a toothbrush or soft cloth to gently scrub the seal. Rinse with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth.
Q: Can I use a trim protectant on rubber trim around car windows?
A: Yes, a trim protectant can be used on rubber trim around car windows. Make sure to choose a protectant that is safe for use on rubber surfaces.
Q: What is the best way to clean the rubber trim around car windows?
A: The best way to clean the rubber trim around car windows is to use a mild soap and warm water solution along with a soft cloth or sponge. Gently scrub the trim and rinse with clean water. Dry with a microfiber cloth.
Q: How should I clean the rubber trim around the window?
A: To clean the rubber trim around the window, mix a solution of mild soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the trim. Rinse with clean water and dry with a microfiber cloth.
In Conclusion
Maintaining a clean car exterior is an important aspect of keeping your vehicle running smoothly.
Cleaning rubber around the windows is essential for reducing dirt and dust buildup, which can lead to more serious repair and maintenance problems in the future.
With regular cleaning using a gentle detergent and water solution, you can keep your car’s window gaskets looking great and extend the life of your rubber seals.