How to Restore Foggy Headlights with Toothpaste

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How to Restore Foggy Headlights with Toothpaste
By: Luke Shaff ~ 3/6/2025

Over time, headlights can become cloudy or yellowed due to oxidation, making it harder to see at night and reducing your vehicle’s appearance. Luckily, you can restore them using a simple household item—toothpaste! Here’s how:

What You’ll Need:

✔ Toothpaste (preferably with baking soda)
✔ A soft microfiber cloth or sponge
✔ Water and soap (or Windex)
✔ A spray bottle with water (optional)
✔ A UV-resistant sealant or car wax

BLOGPOST_CleaningDirtyHeadlights_02232023.jpgStep-by-Step Guide:

Clean the Headlights
Start by washing your headlights with soap and water or Windex to remove dirt and debris. Dry them with a clean cloth.

Apply Toothpaste
Dampen the headlight surface with water, then apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft cloth.

Scrub in Circular Motions
Using firm but gentle pressure, scrub the headlight in circular motions. Keep the surface slightly wet and add more toothpaste if needed. This process helps remove oxidation and buildup.

Rinse and Dry
After scrubbing for a few minutes, rinse the headlight thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth.

Apply a Protective Sealant
Once the headlights are clear, apply a UV-resistant sealant or car wax to protect them from future oxidation. This step is crucial to keep them looking good longer.

Final Tips:

✔ If your headlights are severely oxidized, you may need a headlight restoration kit instead.
✔ For longer-lasting results, consider using fine-grit sandpaper (1,000-2,000 grit) before applying the toothpaste.
✔ Repeat this process every few months to maintain clarity.

With just a little effort and a common household item, you can improve visibility and give your headlights a fresh, like-new look! 🚗✨