Technology

Motorists urged to put household item on windscreen to prevent frost in December

De-icing your windscreen is rarely an enjoyable chore, but placing one common household item on it might help you sidestep the issue during December's chilly days. With temperatures dropping, frost and ice are increasingly appearing on vehicles - however, the AA (Automobile Association) suggests there's a straightforward solution to tackle...

Motorists urged to put household item on windscreen to prevent frost in December

De-icing your windscreen is rarely an enjoyable chore, but placing one common household item on it might help you sidestep the issue during December's chilly days. With temperatures dropping, frost and ice are increasingly appearing on vehicles - however, the AA (Automobile Association) suggests there's a straightforward solution to tackle the problem. A tip has emerged to help motorists stop frost forming on their vehicles overnight, involving covering the windscreen with an everyday essential. You might be surprised to learn that this basic material could make your winter mornings considerably easier when the mercury plummets. This isn't the only useful motoring guidance doing the rounds recently. Just days ago, the RAC also suggested that taking out one particular item from your vehicle could help combat condensation. According to the AA website: "You can stop a windscreen freezing in the first place with a little forward planning. If you have a garage, use it in winter because it'll stop your car from getting iced-up. "If you don't have a garage, park your car on your driveway as close as possible to your home. The heat from your home can help to stop ice forming. Put a shield across your windscreen to stop it getting icy. A piece of cardboard works well for this.", reports the Express . Motorists have previously shared the trick on Reddit, with numerous drivers confirming its effectiveness after putting it to the test. Whilst you might typically dispose of old cardboard in your recycling, retaining it could prove incredibly handy for protecting your car from frost. The discussion began when one social media user enquired: "Tips [for] keeping frost off your windshield? As I prepare for my first winter as a car owner, I was wondering if anyone had any advice on how to prevent frost build-up on the windshield?". One respondent suggested: "You can put a towel or cardboard or something similar on the windshield in the evening and remove it when you need to drive. You will of course have a frosty towel to deal with." Another chimed in: "Piece of cardboard. Keep one in the trunk for this." A different contributor proposed an alternative approach, noting: "Yep, I sometimes throw an old blanket, or a few old sheets on when I think of it at night." Should you lack a proper windscreen cover, having some cardboard to hand proves invaluable. It can be remarkably useful throughout the winter period. For those unaware, placing cardboard on your windscreen offers protection against frost. However, it's essential to use a dry section of substantial cardboard and fasten it securely using the wipers. This approach prevents moisture absorption and the cardboard freezing to the glass. Whilst a purpose-made windscreen cover typically delivers superior results, cardboard remains a viable solution when you haven't got one available. You simply need to steer clear of flimsy materials such as newspaper, which will soak up moisture and stick to the windscreen when frozen. It's also essential to ensure whatever you use is completely dry beforehand. Whichever approach you choose, it's crucial to properly clear your windscreen to guarantee your vehicle is roadworthy. The AA warns: "If you're hurrying to get to work or do the school run, it can be tempting to drive off as soon as the ice has cleared a little. "But this could dangerously obstruct your view of the road if there's still ice or mist on your windscreen. In fact, you can get a £100 fine and three points on your licence if you drive with obscured vision."

Related Articles