Intro
Foggy or yellow headlights make your car look old — and more importantly, they reduce your visibility at night. The good news? You don’t need a mechanic or expensive tools to fix them.
Whether you’re in the UK, US, Europe, or Malaysia’s humid weather, this guide will show you how to remove fog from headlights at home, using simple materials and techniques.
Why Headlights Get Foggy
Headlights are made from polycarbonate plastic, which is durable but prone to oxidation. Over time, UV rays, dirt, and rain cause the surface to become cloudy or yellow.
This reduces:
- Brightness of your headlights
- Night visibility
- Overall car appearance
What You’ll Need (Basic DIY Items)
Most of these items are already in your home or easy to find at any auto store:
- Toothpaste (non-gel, white type)
- Baking soda + vinegar (optional)
- Microfiber cloth
- Water spray bottle
- Painter’s tape (to protect car paint)
- Soft sponge or pad
- UV sealant or headlight protectant (optional for longer-lasting results)
Method 1: Toothpaste Trick (Most Popular)
Step 1: Clean the headlight with soap and water. Dry completely.
Step 2: Apply painter’s tape around the headlight to protect the car’s paint.
Step 3: Squeeze a small amount of white toothpaste onto a soft cloth.
Step 4: Rub the toothpaste in circular motions for 3–5 minutes.
Step 5: Rinse with water and wipe dry.
Step 6 (Optional): Apply a layer of UV protectant to prevent future fog.
📌 Why it works: Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that buff out the oxidized layer.
Method 2: Baking Soda & Vinegar Paste
Step 1: Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of vinegar to form a paste.
Step 2: Apply the paste to the headlight using a sponge.
Step 3: Rub in circular motion for a few minutes.
Step 4: Rinse with clean water and dry.
📌 Best for: Light fogging or if you prefer a more natural method.
Method 3: Commercial Headlight Restoration Kits
Available at auto stores like:
- AutoZone, Walmart (US)
- Halfords (UK)
- Norauto (Europe)
- MR.DIY, Shopee, Lazada (Malaysia)
These kits include sandpaper, polish, and UV sealant for deeper restoration.
Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t use sharp tools or hard brushes — it may scratch the surface.
❌ Avoid using gel toothpaste — it doesn’t have enough abrasive power.
❌ Don’t forget to protect the area around the headlight with tape.
❌ Skipping UV protectant may cause fog to return faster.
Final Tip
After restoration, apply a headlight UV sealant or wax every few months to maintain the clarity longer — especially in sunny or rainy climates.
Final Verdict
Now that you know how to remove fog from headlights using easy DIY methods, you don’t need to pay for expensive services. Your car will not only look newer but also keep you safer at night.
Whether you’re prepping for a road trip in Europe, city driving in the UK, or tackling monsoon season in Malaysia — clear headlights make all the difference.
