As we trudge through January, it's safe to say temperatures have taken a nosedive, leaving many of us grappling with frosty cars and icy windscreens in the mornings. Thankfully, the AA (Automobile Association) suggests a simple nightly routine could be the solution, and it's super easy to put into action.
If you're fed up with chipping away at ice on your car windscreen every winter morning, relief may be in sight. There's a straightforward trick to ward off frost and ice before they even form, and this hack could be a real time-saver, especially as the frost may not be going away any time soon.
With the weather growing increasingly nippy, it's a tip that could come in handy for many. A "magic button" might also be a quick fix if you're keen to defrost your vehicle swiftly.
The AA website advises: "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."
In the past, motorists have shared their experiences with this hack on Reddit, with many singing its praises. So, while you might usually bin old cardboard, hanging onto it could be a game-changer for keeping frost at bay on your vehicle.
The subject arose when a 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 person responded: "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 contributed: "Piece of cardboard. Keep one in the trunk for this." Someone else suggested a different approach, stating: "Yep, I sometimes throw an old blanket, or a few old sheets on when I think of it at night."
If you don't have a windscreen cover, it's always useful to keep a piece of cardboard handy. During the colder months like January, it can prove incredibly beneficial.
There's a straightforward method for using cardboard on your windscreen to ward off frost. It's crucial to remember to use a dry piece of sturdy cardboard and fasten it securely with the wipers.
This prevents it from getting wet and sticking to the glass. Whilst a commercial windscreen cover is deemed more efficient, cardboard serves as a decent substitute if you don't have one available.
You should avoid using flimsy materials like newspaper, as these will soak up moisture and stick to the windscreen. The material must also be completely dry before application.
When you choose a technique to employ, 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."