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Travel + Fun

15th Jan 2016

Top tips for de-icing your car windscreen

HerFamily

You’ll need these tips over the next few days if the weather forecast is anything to go by!

Defrosting the car windscreen can be a tricky and time-wasting task, especially when there are so many other things to do as well.

Well, we feel your pain, which is why we’ve put together a little list of tricks and tips for getting out the door and on the road as easily as possible in icy conditions.

By the way, there’s not a scraper or a de-icer in sight because let’s face it, not everyone is going to have those at their disposal.

Boiling is bad

A common reaction to ice on the car is to boil up the kettle and pour really hot or even boiling water over it. This is very bad and can cause your windscreen to crack, in which case you won’t be going anywhere except the garage. You can however use lukewarm water to melt the ice but make sure to have the car running as it could frost over again.

via GIPHY

Saltwater is the secret

The Metro recently claimed that the best way to deal with an iced windscreen is making up a mix of saltwater, dipping a towel into it and placing it over the windscreen overnight. Apparently saltwater freezes at a lower temperature so it will melt the ice. The only issue is avoiding the metal on your car – salt is corrosive which means it could cause damage.

Heat it up

If it’s frosty outside, check the car first. If it needs defrosting, then start it up and leave it running with the heat on. By the time you get breakfast and get the kids dressed, it should be ready to go. Make sure you have another set of keys to lock it though as you don’t want anyone coming along and stealing your car.

Don’t miss a spot

The most important thing is to delay your journey until the car has been completely defrosted. Scraping off a small circle for you to look out from is dangerous. Make sure you have complete vision and that all windows are clear before you even think of leaving your house. And of course, leaving extra time for your journey is key as surfaces could be slippery and there may be black ice.

via GIPHY