Winter mornings can be a hassle, especially when it means defrosting your car windscreen while you’re longing for a few extra minutes in bed. But fear not—here’s the ‘quickest’ way to clear that icy glass, straight from the experts.
The recommended method for a swift defrost is simple: turn on your car’s engine, switch on the heater and air conditioning, and let the warm air work its magic. While it’s heating up, use a de-icer spray or a brush to clear away the frost. Some folks suggest mixing hand sanitiser with a bit of water as a quick hack, but it’s not a must-do.
Got a towel handy? Drape it over your windscreen overnight to help prevent frosting. Keep in mind, though, this trick isn’t foolproof below -10C.
Now, about those viral tips suggesting pouring hot water on your windscreen—skip it! The melted ice can refreeze, sticking your wipers or door handles. Cold water isn’t any friendlier, as it might freeze on contact and cause damage.
And while some might advise rubbing a potato on the inside of your windows to stop them steaming up, it’s best avoided. The potato residue can impair your visibility, posing a potential risk on the road.
But wait, here’s a crucial bit of safety advice: never leave your car unattended while it’s defrosting. Opportunists, dubbed ‘frosting’ thieves, are on the lookout for cars left running and unattended. Remember, if your car gets stolen in such a situation, your insurance won’t cover it!
So, wrap up warm and stay with your vehicle while it heats up. Pop indoors briefly and always switch off and lock up first. Let’s make those winter commutes safe and sound!