When it comes to choosing the right wiper blades for your car, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends and innovations. Recently, silicone wiper blades have entered the market with claims of superior durability, quiet performance, and better water repellency. But are they really as good as they sound? For Australian conditions, natural rubber wiper blades remain the most reliable, effective, and practical option. Plus, if you have wiper blades that are infused with Teflon™, you’ll have a much quieter driving experience and you’ll be changing your wiper blades less frequently. Let’s explore why natural rubber outperforms silicone in Australia’s unique climate and why the benefits of silicone might be more gimmick than reality.
Understanding Natural Rubber Wiper Blades
Natural rubber wiper blades have been a trusted choice for decades. Made from high quality rubber, these blades are designed to provide reliable performance and a clear view in both wet and dry conditions. Natural rubber has a unique flexibility that allows it to maintain consistent contact with the windscreen, ensuring an effective wipe every time. Plus, if you add Teflon™ to the mix, you’ll have the added benefit of smooth and silent longer lasting wiper blades
Benefits of Natural Rubber Wiper Blades
- Affordable and Accessible: Natural rubber blades are widely available and come at a fraction of the cost of silicone alternatives.
- Reliable Performance in All Conditions: Rubber is flexible and adjusts well to temperature changes, making it perfect for Australia’s diverse weather.
- Proven Durability: When maintained properly, natural rubber blades offer solid durability without the need for fancy coatings or extra treatments.
- Manufacturers Choice: Natural rubber wiper blades are the pick from most major car manufacturers like BMW, Audi, Ford, BYD, Hyundai and Mercedes-Benz.
Why Natural Rubber Wipers Suit Australian Conditions Better Than Silicone
Australia’s climate is harsh, and drivers here need wiper blades that can withstand intense sunlight, high UV exposure, and sudden downpours. Silicone wipers, though trending in popularity, often don’t stand up to these demanding conditions and most major car makers stick with natural rubber blades as the OEM choice.
| Feature | Natural Rubber Wipers | Silicone Wipers |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Resistance | Good, with no need for extra treatments | Prone to warping in extreme sunlight |
| Water Repellency | Provides reliable, clean wipes | Initially repels water but wears off quickly and leaves a coating on windscreen |
| UV Resistance | Naturally resistant with regular care | May degrade or turn brittle over time in upper Australia |
| Cost and Value | Affordable and long-lasting | Expensive without long-term advantage of natural rubber wiper blades |
| Effectiveness in All Weather | Excellent in rain and dry conditions | Not as effective, can streak or skip and smear when wearing out |
The Limitations of Silicone Wipers in Australia
Silicone wipers are often promoted as a premium upgrade, with features like a hydrophobic coating that repels water and longer durability. However, in practice, these benefits don’t always hold up in Australia’s extreme climate. The silicone layer can degrade quickly under the intense Australian sun, losing its water repellent properties and leaving streaks on the windscreen. Over time, silicone blades can also become stiff or warp, leading to reduced effectiveness. This is again why most car manufacturers do not use Silicon wiper blades from the factory.
Natural Rubber Wipers Are Better for Sun and Heat
Natural rubber wipers are uniquely suited for hot, dry climates, and can handle Australia’s high UV exposure. Rubber’s flexibility allows it to adjust to varying temperatures without cracking or stiffening. Unlike silicone, natural rubber maintains its structure even in direct sunlight, so it continues to perform well in hot conditions. Regular rubber blades are also easy to replace and maintain, ensuring they remain in top shape without requiring costly treatments or specialty products.
Cost Effectiveness: Natural Rubber Wipers Save You Money
Another practical advantage of natural rubber wiper blades is cost effectiveness. While silicone wipers tend to be more expensive upfront, they don’t necessarily offer better value over time, especially given the tendency for silicone coatings to degrade in Australia’s climate. Natural rubber blades are affordable, effective, and easy to replace. Since they are readily available in most auto parts stores, you won’t have to hunt around for replacements or worry about the high costs associated with premium silicone brands. This is why we have selected Teflon™ infused natural rubber wiper blades for the Australian market.
Performance in Wet and Windy Weather
Natural rubber wiper blades excel in rainy conditions, providing a consistent, streakfree wipe even in heavy downpours. The flexibility of rubber ensures even contact across the windscreen, which helps to prevent streaking or smearing. Silicone wipers, on the other hand, can sometimes create inconsistent wiping patterns, particularly if the silicone coating begins to wear off. For drivers who regularly face sudden rainstorms or wet weather, Teflon™ infused natural rubber wipers offer a more dependable, reliable choice.
Silicone Wipers vs. Rubber Wipers: Which Lasts Longer in Australia?
Despite claims of longer lifespan, silicone wipers don’t always last as long as they promise, especially in Australia. While silicone is resistant to some forms of wear and tear, the coating can break down over time, particularly in hot climates. Natural rubber wipers may need to be replaced more frequently, but they’re also far more affordable and provide reliable performance throughout their lifespan.
Bosch Aerotwin: Rubber or Silicone?
A common question among drivers is whether Bosch Aerotwin wipers are made of rubber or silicone. Bosch Aerotwin wipers, are made from a rubber compound. They offer durability and reliable wiping performance, particularly in harsh weather. Bosch’s focus on flexible rubber material means these wipers can handle high UV exposure, temperature extremes, and heavy rain, all without the need for a silicone coating. The downside of Bosch wiper blades is their high cost in Australia and lack of compatibility for a wide range of models in the Aussie market.
Maintenance Tips for Longer Lasting Rubber Wipers
With a little care, you can keep your natural rubber wipers performing effectively for as long as possible. Follow these maintenance tips to prolong their life:
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe the rubber blade with a damp cloth every few weeks to remove dirt and debris.
- PH balanced Washer Fluid: A PH balanced washer fluid will help keep your wiper blades clean and clear of debris. We stock a huge range here.
- Check for Damage: Inspect the rubber regularly for any signs of cracking or tearing, and replace if needed. You can find the exact wiper blades for your car here.
- Use Gentle Cleaners: When cleaning your windscreen, avoid harsh chemicals, as they can wear down the rubber over time.
Where to Buy Natural Rubber Wiper Blades in Australia
Natural rubber wiper blades are widely available across Australia at most car parts stores, making them an easy choice for drivers. Brands like Wipers Direct, Bosch, Trico, and Valeo offer quality rubber blades suited for all vehicle types, so you can find the right fit for your car without a hassle here. Wipers Direct also offers easy to use video guides to help you install the wiper blades yourself at home with ease.
FAQs
Are natural rubber wiper blades better than silicone?
- For Australian conditions, yes. Natural rubber is more suited to the climate, as it doesn’t degrade as quickly in sunlight and provides reliable wiping performance. Better yet Teflon™ infused natural rubber wiper blades are the top pick for the Australian market.
How long do natural rubber wipers last?
- With regular care, natural rubber wipers typically last 1-2 years, making them a cost effective choice. Silicone wipers often only last 3-6 months in Australia, as they can’t stand our harsh level of UV.
Do silicone wipers provide better visibility?
- Silicone wipers initially provide water repellency, but this effect often wears off quickly. Rubber wipers offer consistent, streak free visibility for years at a time.
Are Bosch Aerotwin wipers silicone or rubber?
- Bosch Aerotwin wipers are made from rubber, ideal for Australia’s conditions.
How should I care for rubber wipers in Australian weather?
- Regular cleaning and inspection for damage can help prolong their life and effectiveness.
What are the best brands for natural rubber wipers?
- Trusted brands in the Aussie market include Wipers Direct, Bosch and Valeo. Brands like Wipers Direct offer a Perfect Fit Guarantee, 1 Year Warranty and a 90 Day Test Drive.
While silicone wiper blades may sound appealing, they’re often less suited to the harsh Australian climate than traditional natural rubber wiper blades. Rubber blades offer durability, reliable performance, and an affordable solution that stands up well to Australia’s sun, rain, and UV exposure. For drivers seeking the best value and performance, a Teflon™ infused natural rubber wipers remain the most practical choice, providing a consistent, clear view at a reasonable cost.
