Tips on dealing with a frozen windscreen without using a spray de-icer
Spray de-icers can kill animals, make vegetation die and render soil infertile
With the risk of overnight frost and ice very real in the next few weeks we take a look at ways to deal with a frozen windscreen without reaching for the toxic mixture of the spray de-icer.
There are a number of homemade solutions that can be made that act as a great alternative to de-icer.
Vinegar de-icer
The freezing point of vinegar is lower than water and so will prevent the build-up of ice forming in the first place.
Mix three parts vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle and spray on the windscreen the night before. This should then act as a blanket of protection against frost and ice.
Try salt
A simple salt and water solution will dissolve ice and also make it difficult for the water to refreeze. Apply sparingly however as too much could damage the glass.
Warm water in a bag
If you have no vinegar or salt then try filling a bag of warm water, this can then be used to rub over a windscreen and melt the ice.
Avoid pouring on boiling water, though as this can cause the glass to crack due to the sudden temperature change.
An onion rub
Similar to vinegar an onion cut in half and rubbed on the windscreen and windows the night before will help to stop frost and ice from forming.
Use an old sheet or cardboard
An old sheet, tarpaulin, newspaper or cardboard placed on the windscreen overnight can be very effective at preventing the build-up of frost. Tuck under the wipers to keep in place and your windscreen should remain frost free.
And finally, vodka!
If you have a bottle of vodka lurking in your cupboard that you’re never going to drink then try using it on your windscreen! Its high alcohol content makes for a great, albeit expensive, de-icer.
Be careful…
If you are in a rush and try to scrape the ice off your windows without a purpose-made ice scraper then using a bank card or something similar may lead to a scratched windscreen.
Avoid leaving your engine running to defrost your vehicle for any length of time as you can be fined anything from between £20 to £80.
The Highway Code clearly states that windows and windscreens must be kept clean and free of obstructions to vision – and breaking this rule could result in a fine and points on your licence.
Melina - Assistant Editor
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