Over time, the headlights on your car can become cloudy and grimy, reducing the amount of light they give off. What usually starts as a barely noticeable film can eventually leave you driving half-blind through winter evenings.
Motor experts at Car.co.uk have revealed a surprisingly simple solution that’s probably hiding in your bathroom cabinet – toothpaste. “Most people don’t realise their headlights are getting dimmer until it becomes dangerous,” explains William Fletcher, CEO of Car.co.uk. “The good news is you can fix this problem for under a pound using something you most likely already own.” Toothpaste contains mild abrasives designed to polish teeth without causing damage – the same principle works on plastic headlight lenses. “Most modern headlight lenses are polycarbonate plastic with a thin UV-protective clear coat that can oxidise and haze over time,” Fletcher explains.
“Road grit, UV rays, and general wear create a cloudy layer that blocks light output. Toothpaste’s mild abrasives can lift that surface oxidation in minutes.”
First, clean the headlight, then apply regular white toothpaste (avoid gel varieties) using a damp cloth. Work it in circular motions for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel.
For longer-lasting clarity, Car.co.uk recommends wiping on a little car wax or a UV sealant after you rinse to help slow the haze’s return.
But Fletcher warns that while effective for most vehicles, the toothpaste method isn’t suitable for every situation. Avoid this technique if your headlights have anti-reflective coatings, if they’re made from glass, or if the clouding is on the inside of the lens.
Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first before treating the entire headlight. If you notice any scratching or damage during testing, stop immediately. This method works best on standard polycarbonate lenses found on most everyday vehicles.
If you’re driving a premium car or your headlights are particularly expensive to replace, it’s worth getting professional advice first. As with any DIY technique, proceed with caution and test thoroughly.
William Fletcher, CEO of Car.co.uk, commented: “This simple trick has saved countless drivers from expensive repairs, but it doesn’t only have to do with money.
“It’s about safety too. I’ve tested this method on dozens of vehicles over the years, and the results consistently surprise people. You’ll often see an immediate improvement in light output that makes night driving feel completely different.”