URGENT UPDATE: As winter temperatures plunge, car owners face a critical challenge: frozen windscreens. Cold weather driving expert Alexander Haraldsson, CEO of Lotus Car Rentals, has just released essential tips to combat this frustrating issue, ensuring you’re not left scraping ice off your vehicle during the morning rush.
When temperatures drop, drivers are often left with two frustrating choices: waste precious time sitting in a car with the heater running for up to 15 minutes or resort to traditional de-icing sprays and scrapers. Not only is this time-consuming, but failing to clear your windscreen properly could lead to a hefty £1,000 fine and three penalty points if caught driving with obstructed visibility.
To help drivers avoid frost-covered cars, Haraldsson has compiled five quick and cost-effective strategies utilizing common household items. These tips are designed to save you time and hassle during the cold mornings ahead.
1. Vinegar Solution: According to Haraldsson, spraying your windscreen with a mixture of vinegar and water can drastically reduce ice build-up. “Vinegar’s freezing point is much lower than water’s, preventing ice from forming,” he explains. This simple solution can save you valuable minutes in the mornings.
2. Strategic Parking: For those who want an extra 10 minutes of sleep, Haraldsson suggests parking your car facing east. As the sun rises, the sunlight will help melt any ice, reducing the need for scraping or warming up the vehicle.
3. DIY De-Icer: Create your own effective de-icing spray by mixing rubbing alcohol with half a teaspoon of dish soap. Shake the mixture and spray it on your windscreen. Alternatively, mix vodka with water for another quick de-icer solution.
4. Use Vegetables: In a viral TikTok hack, Haraldsson recommends using a potato or onion. “Cut one in half and rub it on your windows the night before,” he says. The sugar molecules in these vegetables can help prevent frost formation, offering a unique solution to winter woes.
5. Sandwich Bag Trick: If you wake up to a frozen car, try this innovative method: fill a sandwich bag with warm water and gently move it across the icy surfaces. “This method melts the ice quickly without scratching your windows,” Haraldsson advises. It’s crucial to use warm, not boiling, water to avoid potential window cracks.
These practical solutions are not just about convenience; they’re essential for safety. With the icy grip of winter upon us, it’s vital to stay informed and prepared.
Stay tuned for more updates on winter driving tips and essential safety information as the cold weather continues to impact our daily lives.
