The AA has issued a timely piece of advice to UK motorists tired of the morning scrape: stop de-icing your car and start preventing the ice from forming in the first place. With January's biting temperatures firmly in place, the motoring organisation suggests a remarkably simple nightly routine involving a common household item.
The AA's Frost Prevention Method
On its website, the AA outlines a strategy of "forward planning" to avoid a frozen windscreen. The ideal solution is to park in a garage, but for those without one, parking close to your home can help, as residual heat may reduce icing. The key recommendation, however, is to use a physical shield. "Put a shield across your windscreen to stop it getting icy. A piece of cardboard works well for this," the AA advises.
Does the Cardboard Trick Actually Work?
This low-tech hack has garnered support from drivers online. In past discussions on platforms like Reddit, motorists have shared positive experiences. One user confirmed the method, stating, "You can put a towel or cardboard or something similar on the windshield in the evening and remove it when you need to drive." Another simply recommended keeping "a piece of cardboard" in the boot for this specific purpose. While commercial windscreen covers are more efficient, a sturdy piece of cardboard is hailed as an effective and free alternative.
How to Execute the Hack Properly
For the method to work, it's crucial to do it correctly. You must use a completely dry and sturdy piece of cardboard, securely fastened under the windscreen wipers. This prevents it from becoming sodden and sticking to the glass. The AA warns against using materials like newspaper, which absorb moisture and become useless. The goal is to have a dry barrier you can quickly remove in the morning, revealing a clear, or significantly clearer, windscreen.
Regardless of the prevention method used, the AA stresses the importance of ensuring your windscreen is fully clear before driving. Driving with obscured vision can result in a £100 fine and three penalty points on your licence. The organisation cautions against the temptation to drive off after only partially clearing the ice, emphasising that safety must always come first during the winter months.
