Frustrated by frosty windscreens on chilly December mornings? The RAC has endorsed a remarkably simple trick that could spare you the daily scrape. The advice, which originated from a driver's social media post, focuses on a routine task often overlooked: cleaning the inside of your windshield.
The Reddit Revelation That Caught the RAC's Attention
Earlier this winter, a motorist took to Reddit to share a discovery that many found surprisingly effective. "With winter here, clean the inside of your windshield," the user advised. "You'll be surprised how many of those annoying streaks are on the inside." This straightforward suggestion was quickly backed by fellow drivers, who added their own tips for a perfect finish.
One respondent recommended always cleaning the glass when it's not in direct sunlight to avoid streaks. Another emphasised using a separate, dry microfiber cloth to ensure no moisture is left behind to air dry, which is a primary cause of smearing.
Why a Simple Cloth is Your Best Defence Against Ice
On its official website, the RAC stresses that keeping your windscreen clean is a critical winter maintenance task. The organisation explains that windscreens can freeze on the inside in extremely cold conditions, a problem caused by moisture levels inside the vehicle.
When warm, humid air inside the car meets the cold glass chilled by outside temperatures, condensation forms and then freezes. Dirt and grime on the interior surface attract and hold this moisture, creating the perfect conditions for an icy film to develop overnight.
The RAC's solution is simple: "Clean the interior surfaces... Wipe down windows and surfaces regularly to ensure there is nothing to freeze." This means using a cloth with your preferred cleaning solution on the inside of the windscreen can be a proactive measure against frost.
Making It Part of Your Routine
The RAC highlights that preventing a frozen interior screen is an "integral part of regular car maintenance" during the winter months. They recommend adding it to your daily or weekly schedule to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.
Ventilation is also key to managing humidity. The RAC advises: "To reduce the chances of your interior windscreen freezing, ensure your car is well-ventilated." This is particularly important for vehicles with sunroofs, which offer more surface area for condensation to freeze. Opening windows when safe and possible helps balance the humidity difference between the inside and outside of the car.
By incorporating this quick wipe-down into your routine, you can tackle the root cause of interior frost and make those cold December mornings significantly less troublesome.
