4 DIY Methods to Clean Foggy Headlights

Driving with foggy headlights is not safe. Headlights that are not as clear as they should be can impede visibility even in the best conditions. When the weather is not optimal for driving, cloudy headlights can be even more of an issue. Restoring foggy headlights is something that can’t be ignored but it can also be expensive to have a professional do the job. 

Fortunately, there are some pretty simple DIY methods for restoring cloudy headlights at home. We have rounded up the top four methods for this post. Some of them you have probably heard of while others might take you by surprise. 

Magic Eraser

The Magic Eraser is truly amazing. Not everyone has seen this handy and easy to use product at work and it’s a shame. Whether you need to remove marker off of a wall from a budding artist or stains on a sink, this little sponge erases it all. What else can this miracle sponge do? The Magic Eraser can actually be used to clean cloudy headlights. It is pretty easy. You just get the eraser wet and start scrubbing the outside of the headlight where all of the grime builds up. One caveat is that it may not work for headlights that are extremely dirty. But it is worth a try, especially if you have one laying around.  

Coca-Cola

The fact that something we put in our bodies can be used to clean is slightly unsettling. However, Coca-Cola does a great job cleaning those foggy headlights. The process is short and simple to follow. The headlights have to be wet first but not soaked. You can take a damp rag and give them a quick wipe down. Then you need to spray on the Coke. You can use an old cleaning bottle or any other kind of bottle you might have lying around. To get the best effect you need to let it sit for about five minutes. This will give the soda time to work through the dirt and grime. After the five minutes are up, take a clean cloth and wipe it off to see the magic. 

WD-40

WD-40 is one of those products that has a few off label uses. Restoring foggy headlights is one of them. The great thing is it’s an easy way to quickly clean your cloudy headlights. To get started, you need to make sure your headlight is clean and free of road dirt. A little soap and water will do the job. After the headlight has been washed, spray it with the WD-40 and wipe it off with a clean, wet rag. This could take a few rounds if the headlights are really cloudy. 

Bug Spray With Deet

While we have been told that Deet is bad for us, it is actually a great method for cleaning cloudy headlights. If you have some bug spray with DEET lying around, you won’t have to make a trip to the store to try this solution. All you need is a dry rag and the bug spray. Spray the bug repellant on the rag and wipe the headlight until it is clear. It may take some elbow grease but if your headlights are only slightly cloudy, it won’t take long. 

Restoring foggy headlights can be expensive, so many car owners don’t pay to have the service done. Instead of spending the extra money on labor or letting your headlights get worse, try out some of these DIY tips at home to help clear up cloudy headlights without breaking the bank.