Avoid Dishwashing Detergent in Windscreen Wash

A frequent we get from vehicle owners is whether it’s acceptable to use dishwashing detergent in the windscreen wash system of their cars. The simple answer is this: it’s not a recommended practice. Let’s delve into the reasons why.

Why Dedicated Windscreen Cleaner is Best:

First and foremost, we strongly advise using a dedicated windscreen cleaner for the optimal visibility and safety of your vehicle. These specialized solutions are designed to tackle the unique challenges your windscreen faces, such as bug splatters, road grime, and other contaminants. They provide effective cleaning while being gentle on the components of your windscreen wash system.

The Pitfalls of Dishwashing Detergent:

Dishwashing soap, as the name implies, is formulated for the removal of grease and stubborn, caked-on food residues. This cleaning prowess is achieved thanks to its abrasive nature. While it excels at cutting through stubborn kitchen messes, this abrasiveness can wreak havoc when introduced into your vehicle’s windscreen wash system.

When abrasive dish soap is used, it poses a risk to the rubber valves and pump fittings within the system. Over time, this soap can lead to significant damage and even blockages in the water jets. Such issues compromise the functionality of the system, resulting in reduced or erratic spraying of cleaning fluid onto your windscreen.

In addition to the mechanical problems it can cause, dishwashing detergent isn’t tailored to combat the specific contaminants that adhere to your vehicle’s windscreen. As a result, its effectiveness in providing clear and streak-free visibility is far from optimal. This means that even though it may clean your windscreen to some extent, it won’t perform as efficiently as a dedicated windscreen cleaner would.

In summary, while dishwashing detergent is a valuable ally in your kitchen, it’s not an ideal candidate for use in your vehicle’s windscreen wash system. For the sake of maintaining the longevity and proper functioning of your vehicle’s components, as well as ensuring the best visibility and safety on the road, it’s prudent to stick to dedicated windscreen cleaners designed specifically for the task.