Giving your headlights a quick preliminary wipedown will get rid of the worst of the mess, allowing the toothpaste to work more effectively on what’s left.

If you’re using a towel, make sure it’s of the lint-free variety. Otherwise, you could end up leaving behind small fibers, which can easily become stuck on the headlight covers. Alternatively, you can apply the toothpaste while the headlights are still wet to produce a bubbly lather similar to soap. [3] X Research source

The gritty toothpaste, combined with the pressure of polishing, could potentially damage any paint that’s not covered with tape. [5] X Expert Source Audra FordinCertified Automotive Technician Expert Interview. 13 January 2022.

Try not to smear the toothpaste on too thick—it’s best to start with a small amount and add more later as needed. It’s important to use an ordinary type of toothpaste rather than a gel. Gel toothpastes don’t contain abrasives, which are what is actually responsible for chipping away at the dingy layer of oxidation making the lights appear foggy. [7] X Research source

If your headlights don’t look any cleaner after your first few passes, switch to a soft-bristled brush to increase your coverage and really work the toothpaste into the plastic. [10] X Expert Source Audra FordinCertified Automotive Technician Expert Interview. 13 January 2022. An old toothbrush is perfectly suited for the task (who would’ve thought?). [11] X Research source Getting your headlights looking like-new may require a little bit of elbow grease. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to really dig in.

Don’t forget to remove the tape from around your headlights when you’re finished. Any toothpaste you miss will dry to a cloudy film, leaving you right back where you started.

You can pick up a bottle of UV-resistant headlight sealant for just a few dollars at any automotive supply store, as well as most supercenters, gas stations, and convenience stores. A good UV sealant will slow the formation of oxidation on your headlight covers as a result of exposure to the sun’s rays.

If you happen to have a UV lamp, you can speed up the process by shining it directly on your headlights for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re completely dry. [15] X Research source Hold off on washing your vehicle for at least 8 hours after applying headlight sealant.

You may need to up the frequency of your cleanings if you do a lot of driving.