Yahoo News Expert shares trick to de-ice car windscreen using common kitchen cupboard staple
With the recent cold weather, many drivers have been waking up to frosty windscreens and are having to de-ice their cars.
Now experts have shared a simple and cost-effective hack to clear your windscreen using a staple from your kitchen cupboard. This method uses regular table salt.
Explaining the hack, a spokesperson for Motor Match said: "A salt solution is a surprisingly effective way to de-ice your car without the need for commercial de-icer sprays. By creating a saltwater solution, you can dissolve the ice on your windscreen through a chemical reaction.
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"Salt lowers the freezing point of water, which prevents the ice from forming again as quickly. However, we recommend applying it sparingly, as heavy use could potentially damage the glass over time."
To make the de-icing solution, simply pour water into a spray bottle and add one tablespoon of salt per two cups of water. Shake the bottle to ensure the salt dissolves properly, then spray it onto your windscreen to help melt away the ice. For a quicker effect, you can use rock salt if available, as its larger crystals can intensify the reaction.
While this method works well for clearing existing frost, Motor Match experts suggest additional methods for preventing frost from forming in the first place. They added: "One unique tip is to use an onion to treat the glass the night before.
"Simply cut an onion in half and rub it across the windscreen. The natural oils in onions create a barrier that helps prevent frost build-up by breaking down frost as it forms."
Other handy methods include applying a vinegar and water mixture to the windscreen, which helps prevent ice from forming overnight. A more unconventional yet effective option involves using a small amount of vodka, which can act as a strong de-icer due to its low freezing point.
"On frosty mornings, it’s common to see drivers struggling to clear their windscreen, which can scratch the glass and cause lasting damage," the Motor Match spokesperson said. "Instead, try covering your windscreen with a tarp or cloth at night to minimise frost formation. This, combined with these simple de-icing hacks, can make your mornings smoother and prevent potential fines for obstructed vision while driving."
