Essential Tips on How to Make Your Wiper Blades Last Longer
Want to know how to make windscreen wipers last longer? Check out our top tips.
Want to know how to make windscreen wipers last longer? Check out our top tips.
While one of your vehicle's smaller parts, your wiper blades are still an important component. They are your key to clear vision on the road, and without them, you wouldn’t be able to drive in rain or snow.
Wiper blades are one of the fastest-wearing parts of your vehicle, so you should replace them every 12 months. But how can you make sure they stand the test of time and deliver a full service life?
We’ve rounded up our top tips to help you get the most out of your blades.
Make sure your screen wash is topped up
Dry wipers on a dry windscreen are not a good mix, and the friction can damage the rubber blade. That’s where screen wash comes in to help lubricate your windscreen.
If you notice your reservoir is running low when operating your wipers, it’s time for a top-up. In the winter, make sure to use winter screen wash to prevent it from freezing at lower temperatures.
Keeping your screen wash topped up will not only benefit your wipers. It’ll also help you keep a clear windscreen, which is important no matter the conditions.
Clean your wiper blades and windscreen regularly
Cleaning your entire windscreen – including your wipers – is another simple way to make your wiper blades last longer.
Dirt and debris can easily build up on your windscreen, especially in the autumn and winter months. If left, this can make it more difficult for your wipers to clear away and cause damage. All you need to clean your windscreen is a bucket filled with warm soapy water and a sponge.
Give your windscreen a general clean to remove any stubborn dirt, and gently lift your wiper blades. Carefully wipe along the edge of the blade, rinse, and then lower back down on your windscreen.
Park in shaded areas
If possible, try to park your car in shaded areas. This is because your wipers can harden when exposed to long periods of sunlight.
Noticed your wipers becoming firm? Not to worry, there’s an easy way to soften wiper blades. Simply use a mixture of water and vinegar and apply this along the length of the rubber blade. Rinse with surgical spirit preferably, and they should soften in no time.
Choose quality wiper blades
When replacing your wipers, choosing a quality brand is a surefire way to ensure you get the most out of them.
Brands like BOSCH and MICHELIN are known for the quality of their wipers, using premium materials and processes.
At Wiper Blades, we only stock replacement wiper blades from the best brands, so you can be sure of quality when ordering from us.
Wondering what wiper blades you need for your car? Check out our blog on three of the best wiper blades to buy right now. You can also enter your reg into our handy vehicle search tool to shop wiper blades guaranteed to fit your car.
Protect your wiper blades in the winter
In the winter, it can be tempting to use your wipers to clear frost and ice away from your windscreen. Avoid this at all costs, as this can cause damage to your wiper blades.
You’ll need to be very careful how you use your wipers, only operating them once your windscreen has cleared. When snow and ice are forecast, it’s a good idea to cover your wipers overnight to prevent them from freezing.
You can do this in several ways, including:
- With a frost shield – make sure this is big enough to cover your whole windscreen and wipers.
- With a towel – placing it between your wipers and the windscreen.
- By lifting your wipers – lifting them into a standing position will prevent them from sticking.
You should also inspect your wipers to make sure there are no signs of damage. If you notice any signs of squeaking, juddering, smearing, or streaking, you’ll need to replace them.
You’ll be relying on your wipers more in the winter with more rain, sleet, and snow, so it’s important to make sure they’re in top shape.
Shop replacement wipers at Wiper Blades
We hope you feel well-prepared when it comes to making your wiper blades last. Looking for replacement wipers? Shop our collection of industry-leading brands and find the perfect wipers for your vehicle.
Simply enter your reg into our vehicle search tool to shop only wipers designed to fit your specific vehicle. Then, use our helpful fitting guides to help you fit your wipers like a pro in minutes!
Get started below or get in touch with us if you have any questions.