How to stop ice forming on car windscreen using ‘unlikely’ food item

During the winter months, it’s not uncommon for a windscreen to be completely covered in ice, but there’s a simple method to prevent this from happening

When you’re hurrying to reach work in the morning, there’s nothing more irritating than waiting for your car windscreen to defrost. However, according to motoring specialists, there’s a straightforward method to stop ice from developing on your windscreen overnight – and all you require is an everyday kitchen ingredient.

The experts at LeaseCar suggest drivers can avoid a troublesome layer of ice from adhering to their windscreen overnight by slicing a brown onion in half and wiping it across the windscreen before retiring for the evening. The onion assists in forming a slick protective layer that stops water droplets from adhering and freezing, whilst also dissolving any frost.

Supporting this technique, Motor Match stated: “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 buildup by breaking down frost as it forms.”

One of the most aggravating aspects of an extended winter drive is having to scrape off thick ice that frequently develops on car windows, with motorists risking penalties of up to £2,500 for operating a vehicle with icy windows, reports the Mirror.

Discussing their own techniques to de-ice their vehicle’s windscreen in the morning, one Reddit user commented: “Look at the folks in Michigan or Sweden.

“Plastic sheet with rare earth magnets. Plastic covers windshield. Magnets hold plastic to car. Planes use alcohol as the majority of de-icing solution. So if you live in the ice, maybe run 90% IPA in the windshield washer tank.

“Start the car – run the defroster. Wait 2-3 min, scraper now removes ice as the bond to glass is melted.

“Warming the car is also great for tourists, as you can overheat your car in the snow if a radiator hose has frozen up.

“I saw that too often in Lake Tahoe on ski trips. Engine gets hot FAST when the block can heat but the radiator can’t circulate antifreeze.

“Run the car. By the time to drive happens – all the windows are clear. Is the temp in the normal range or low? Good. If the temp is high – turn it off as the radiator or hose is frozen.”

Another user contributed: “Put a towel over your windshield and then, when it’s time to shovel out the car, your windshield will be clear!”.

“If you don’t want to do that, just turn the defrosters on and scrape it off. It doesn’t scratch the glass.”

A third user commented: “100% a good plastic scraper. Water is probably the worst thing at any temp. I have had warm air break glass in extreme cold. You are also adding the most important ingredient in making more ice…

“Take the possible ‘micro scratches’ as coming with the territory. If very minor ice scraper damage is a big deal… You probably shouldn’t be driving the car on public roadways or parking it outside. If it’s really that big of an issue, maybe a window cover or something.”

Another user commented: “Scraper, end of discussion. I’ve lived in Canada 27 years, trust me, using water is stupid.”

A final user remarked: “You could also get a windshield cover to prevent ice and snow. Not super convenient to put on after driving, but they do work well.”