How to get ice off the windshield without losing precious minutes on a cold morning? Every winter, the same doubt arises, and we end up resorting to the same methods. From pouring hot water to scraping the ice, there are many myths and truths about this task.
But what should we actually do (and not do)? In this article, we cover the most practical and safe strategies for removing ice from the windshield and avoiding damage to your car.
Tips for Getting Ice Off the Car’s Windshield
Why does the car’s windshield freeze?
One of the factors that leads to the formation of a layer of ice on the windshield is the condensation of humidity in the air. Additionally, the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the vehicle also contributes to freezing.
Although less common, the windshield can also freeze on the inside. This happens when the air inside the car has a high level of humidity, such as due to wet mats.
How can the car’s windshield be protected from freezing?
Not everyone has the option of parking their car in a garage, but prevention is better than cure.
Certainly the best method to avoid ice on the windshield is to cover it with a waterproof and soft fabric cover to prevent scratching the glass.
If you don’t have a specific cover, you can use a sheet or another piece of fabric. To make sure the fabric stays in place overnight, tuck the ends inside the car doors.
What not to do
- Don’t pour hot water
The drastic temperature difference can cause cracks or even break the glass.
- Don’t use the windshield wipers or windshield washer fluid
The ice can damage the wipers, and the fluid, being too cold, will only intensify the ice.
- Avoid using salt
Salt grains can scratch the glass.
- Beware of unsafe DIY methods
Although popular, methods like rubbing the glass with a rice-filled sock heated in the microwave can cause small scratches on the glass.
Read more: Windshield wipers: how to protect them (all year round)
Tips for removing ice from the windshield
- Turn on the air conditioning
Activate the defrost function in the car. The warm air directed to the windshield will help weaken the ice layer.
- Use a proper scraper
In addition, Carefully scrape the ice using a scraper designed for windshields. Avoid makeshift tools, such as kitchen spatulas, which can scratch the glass.
- Homemade solutions
Prepare a mixture of 1/3 water and 2/3 isopropyl alcohol.
Apply it with a spray bottle — for example, you can reuse empty spray bottles (such as those for window cleaners or hair sprays), as long as they are well washed.
Do not spray the mixture on other parts of the car, as it may damage the paint.
- Use de-icer sprays
These products are available on the market and are specially developed to effectively remove ice without damaging the vehicle’s paint.
In conclusion, with these tips, removing ice from the windshield will be much quicker and more efficient. Avoid risky methods that could damage the windshield. This way, winter mornings will no longer be a hassle — at least when it comes to ice on the windshield!
