Petrol, diesel and electric car owners have been told to consider rubbing washing-up liquid over their cars in colder weather this winter. Motoring experts have suggested that washing-up liquid mixed with other common household items could make an effective de-icer.
The cooler temperatures of January and February are likely to bite with frost and ice tending to stick to glass. This can severely restrict motorists' vision of the road ahead, putting individuals at risk while behind the wheel. According to Lotus Car Rentals, the solution should be sprayed across the windscreen and windows immediately after a big freeze.
Lotus Car Rentals explained: “De-icing spray can effectively speed up the process of defrosting. To make your own, use some rubbing alcohol and mix it with half a teaspoon of washing-up liquid. Give it a quick shake and spray it onto your windscreen and all windows of the vehicle.
“You can also use alcohol. Vodka makes it the perfect de-icer, just mix vodka and water, and spray all over your car.”
Specialists at LeaseCar backed up the idea, suggesting that washing-up liquid was a crucial tool to fight back against ice build-up. However, using household tools is not likely to be a permanent solution and will require the solution to be reapplied to windscreens.
LeaseCar added: “A mixture of rubbing alcohol mixed with washing-up liquid can help thin out a thick layer of ice. Spray the solution onto the ice and wipe over with a microfibre cloth.”
However, some motoring specialists have warned that using washing-up liquid as a de-icing tool was not a good idea. Keith Hawes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts suggested that TikTok recipes using washing-up liquid may not be effective.
Using washing-up liquid over the car's exterior can have some serious side effects such as damaging vehicle paintwork.
He explained: “These household products aren’t designed for cars and can damage rubber seals, erode paintwork, and dry out wiper blades. Replacement seals typically cost £80–£150, while paint repairs can be much higher.”
Instead, he urged individuals to use a proper car de-icer that is designed to melt ice quickly without damaging a vehicle’s paint, rubber, sensors or trim.