As winter tightens its grip, drivers across the UK are facing the daily morning battle with a frost-covered car. Waking up to a windscreen caked in ice is a frustrating and time-consuming start to the day. Fortunately, the Automobile Association (AA) has endorsed a remarkably simple and cost-effective solution that utilises an everyday household item.
The Cardboard Windscreen Shield: A Proven Frost Fighter
The AA explicitly recommends using a piece of cardboard to protect your windscreen from frost formation. This method is ideal for those without access to a garage. The motoring organisation advises: "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."
This advice, highlighted on 30th November 2025, has been widely praised by drivers. Many have adopted the practice, with some even keeping a spare piece of cardboard in their car boot for emergency use during unexpected cold snaps.
How to Correctly Apply the Cardboard Hack
For this frost prevention method to work effectively, it's crucial to follow a few simple steps. You will need a dry section of robust cardboard. Flimsy materials will not suffice. Once you have your cardboard, place it squarely against the outside of the windscreen and secure it firmly in place by tucking it under the windscreen wipers. This action prevents the cardboard from being blown away by wind and, just as importantly, stops it from becoming damp and freezing to the glass itself.
It is vital to avoid using thin materials like newspaper. Newspaper will absorb moisture and freeze solidly to the glass, creating a bigger problem than the one you started with. Always ensure your cardboard is completely dry before application. While a purpose-built windscreen cover is often the most reliable option, a sturdy piece of cardboard serves as an excellent and readily available substitute.
Alternative Frost Prevention Methods
If you find yourself without a suitable piece of cardboard, don't despair. There are other common items that can achieve a similar result. Experts suggest that an old towel or a spare shower curtain can also be used to cover the windscreen. The key principle remains the same: creating a physical barrier that stops moisture from settling and freezing directly onto the glass overnight.
By implementing these simple strategies, you can save valuable time on cold winter mornings and avoid the tedious task of scraping ice. This clever hack turns a common piece of waste into a powerful tool for easier winter driving.
