Drivers across the UK are being urged to place used tea bags inside their cars from Friday, August 28, as a bout of wet weather is forecast. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for thunderstorms across 64 areas of the UK, with the heaviest showers expected to develop during Friday afternoon and evening over northern England and much of Wales, before extending over central and eastern England through the afternoon.
Thunderstorm Warning and Rainfall
The national forecaster said the thunderstorms could bring up to 20mm of rain in a short period in some areas, while a few locations could see as much as 40mm of rainfall. Some areas are also expected to see lightning and hail, and winds are expected to strengthen during Friday too, particularly in eastern and northeastern coastal areas.
The wet weather is forecast to continue into the long bank holiday weekend, with heavy rain moving east across England and Wales on Saturday, followed by a mix of sunshine and showers on Sunday and early next week. The rainy conditions are expected to lead to possible flooding, travel delays and longer journey times due to spray and standing water on the roads.
Condensation Risk and Tea Bag Solution
But these are not the only hazards drivers are likely to face, as rain also brings another problem in the form of condensation on car windows. Condensation forms when warm, moist air inside the car meets the cold surface of the glass, causing water vapour to condense and form droplets, and this tends to be more pronounced in winter or in bouts of cold or wet weather.
The rain cools down car windows from the outside, while getting into the vehicle in wet clothes and shoes also brings in moisture, and when warm, wet air hits the cold glass, this results in fogging and condensation that can take a frustrating amount of time to clear. That's where tea bags come in.
Natural Dehumidifier for Cars
Used tea bags – particularly used black and green tea bags – are very effective at reducing condensation and dampness inside cars because the tea leaves contain naturally absorbent compounds. As such, they can be used to draw excess moisture from the air and essentially act as a natural dehumidifier, which can prove particularly useful on rainy days.
To tackle the problem of condensation and fogging in wet weather, experts recommend placing some used tea bags or small bowls of loose tea around the inside of your car, such as on the dashboard or in the door pockets. Doing so can reduce the risk of condensation forming on windscreens, helping drivers avoid a fine of up to £2,500.
Avoid Fines and Clear Windscreens
The Highway Code says drivers should always completely demist their windows before setting off, and condensation can obstruct this. If you try to drive with an obscured view, you could be fined up to £2,500 and get penalty points on your licence, especially if it leads to an accident.
Ben Pitcher, motoring specialist at DPF Experts, says tea bags are a great solution to this problem as they're naturally absorbent, cheap and likely already knocking around in your kitchen cupboard. He explains: "Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months. Though they aren't as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they're a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness."
Green and black tea are able to absorb moisture that can form when the temperature inside a car is different to that outside and, as an added bonus, it can also improve the smell of your vehicle. Tea bags can absorb and neutralise unpleasant odours, leaving your car smelling much fresher with very little effort.
Pitcher also says packets of silica gel, which is commonly found in packaging for things like shoes, electronics and food items, can also have a similar effect and will help to clear car windscreens in the morning when condensation is most common. He adds: "Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture. Collecting a few and placing them around your car can help control condensation. While they won't clear foggy windows instantly, they can help reduce moisture and keep your windscreen clearer for longer."
