How to Clean Headlights

What You'll Need

• Toothpaste (whitening, non-gel)
• Baking soda
• Soft cloth or sponge
• Spray bottle of water
• Car wax (for sealing)
• Painter's tape

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Tape around the headlights

   Apply painter's tape around the edges of the headlight to protect the surrounding paint from cleaning compounds and abrasion.

2. 2

   Wash the headlights with soap and water

   Clean off road grime and bugs first. Use car soap or dish soap and water with a sponge. Rinse and dry.

3. 3

   Apply toothpaste or baking soda

   Apply a thick layer of whitening toothpaste or a paste of baking soda and water to the headlight lens. The mild abrasives polish away oxidation.

4. 4

   Scrub in circular motions

   Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the toothpaste/paste in firm circular motions for 5 minutes. Add water as needed to keep it moist.

5. 5

   Rinse, dry, and seal

   Rinse off all residue with water. Dry completely. Apply car wax or UV sealant to protect the clear lens from re-oxidizing.

Pro Tips

• TIPAlways seal headlights with UV protectant after cleaning -- without it, oxidation returns within months.
• TIPFor severely yellowed headlights, a headlight restoration kit with multiple grit sandpaper grades works better than toothpaste.
• TIPClean headlights every 6-12 months as preventive maintenance to keep them clear longer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• XSkipping the UV sealant step, which means oxidation returns within weeks of cleaning.
• XUsing gel toothpaste, which lacks the mild abrasives needed to polish away oxidation.
• XPressing too hard with abrasives, which can scratch the lens and create permanent haze.

Frequently Asked Questions