A simple kitchen freezer bag could be the secret to clearing a frosty windscreen in seconds, according to a leading motoring expert, as the UK braces for further wintry conditions.
The Simple Household Hack for Frosty Mornings
With the Met Office issuing amber warnings for snow and sub-zero temperatures gripping the nation, the tedious morning ritual of de-icing the car is back for many drivers. Nick Zapolski, founder of the car marketplace ChooseMyCar.com, has shared a remarkably cheap and effective solution. Filling a freezer bag with warm water and rubbing it across the glass can melt ice away rapidly, potentially saving motorists from buying dedicated de-icer products.
"Many parts of the UK continue to hit freezing temperatures, and this means that our cars will start to need extra care," explained Zapolski. He advocates for using common household items to maintain visibility and safety without significant expense.
More Clever Tips for Winter Car Care
The humble freezer bag isn't the only domestic item that can double as a winter motoring aid. Zapolski suggests placing socks over your windscreen wipers overnight to prevent them from freezing to the glass. For a clear number plate – a legal requirement – a dish sponge dipped in mild soapy water will do the trick, helping to avoid a potential £1,000 fine for an obscured plate.
Another ingenious hack involves parking strategically. By using a cheap compass to ensure your car faces east in the evening, you can harness the morning sun to naturally defrost your vehicle. "The sun, which rises in the East, can remove excessive ice off your car for you," the expert noted.
Essential Safety Checks You Cannot Ignore
Beyond quick hacks, performing fundamental safety checks is critical during the cold snap. Tyre condition is paramount, and there's a simple test to see if yours meet the legal tread depth of 1.6mm. Insert a 20p coin into the main grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the coin is visible, it's a clear sign your tyres may need urgent replacement for safe winter driving.
"These tips may sound simple, but it could be just what's needed to ensure a smoother drive this winter," Zapolski concluded, emphasising that these measures are about both saving money and ensuring vehicle safety as forecasters warn of more snow for central and northern regions through January.
