And How to Actually Get Rid of It
If you’ve ever walked up to your car and spotted a weird green film on the rubber around your windows — yep, that’s algae. While it might seem harmless (or just plain annoying), that green stuff is alive and thriving — and if you don’t take care of it properly, it’ll keep coming back. The good news? You don’t need any fancy tools or harsh chemicals to take care of it for good.
Why It Happens
Warm weather + moisture = algae paradise. Window seals create a perfect little crevice for moisture to get trapped — and the rubber gives algae just enough texture to hang on. It usually pops up on the outside of the glass, down near the seal — but sometimes you’ll find it hiding on the inside edge, too.
Let’s Get It Cleaned Up
Start by giving the outside window trim a good cleaning. Roll the windows all the way up and use a soft cloth to wipe away surface dust. Then grab a soft-bristle brush (even an old toothbrush works) and sweep out any dirt or debris wedged between the glass and rubber.
Spray the trim with an all-purpose cleaner — something gentle but effective. Scrub the trim with your brush, working it into all the nooks and crannies. Wipe away the suds with a clean cloth, rinse if needed, and let it air dry. Once it’s dry, apply a rubber trim protectant to help condition the seal and make it less inviting to algae in the future.
Now for the Inside of the Seal
This is where that green gunk really likes to hide. Roll the window down a few inches so you can get to the inner edge of the seal. Spray with your cleaner and let it sit for a minute to loosen things up, then scrub away. Wipe it all clean with a fresh cloth.
For the finishing touch — and to keep the algae from coming right back — use a mild bleach solution to sanitize the area. (Just check your bleach bottle for proper dilution instructions.) Spray lightly, wipe away the excess, and be sure everything is dry before rolling the window back up. Give the glass one last polish to catch any leftover smudges.
Goodbye, Green Stuff
Just like that, those rubber seals around your windows are clean, protected, and algae-free. A little maintenance goes a long way — and you’ll keep your car looking sharp even through another humid Savannah summer.
