As the Christmas period ushers in the coldest winter months, drivers across the UK are facing the familiar and frustrating morning ritual of scraping frost from their windscreens. However, motoring experts have highlighted a remarkably simple preventative measure that could save precious minutes on chilly mornings.
The RAC's Essential Winter Maintenance Tip
The Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has issued clear guidance to motorists, stating that cleaning the interior of your car windows is an "integral part of regular car maintenance" during winter. The advice, which has also been shared widely by savvy social media users, focuses on tackling the root cause of interior frost.
Condensation and humidity inside a vehicle can lead to screens freezing on the inside, creating a double layer of ice that takes longer to clear. The RAC explains that dirt and grime on interior glass can trap moisture, which then freezes overnight. Their solution is straightforward: regularly wipe down all interior windows and surfaces to ensure there is nothing for the frost to grip onto.
Social Media Wisdom and Best Practice
Online communities have echoed this professional advice, with drivers sharing their own experiences. One user advised: "With winter here, clean the inside of your windshield. You’ll be surprised how many of those annoying streaks are on the inside."
Others offered practical tips for a streak-free finish:
- Clean your windshield when it's not in direct sunlight to prevent immediate drying and streaking.
- Always use a separate, clean microfiber cloth for drying.
- Dry the glass thoroughly, as any residual wetness left to air-dry will likely cause marks.
Ventilation is Key, Especially for Sunroofs
The RAC further emphasises the importance of ventilation in combating interior frost. Balancing the humidity levels inside and outside the car is crucial. They recommend opening windows whenever it is safe and possible to do so, allowing damp air to escape.
This advice is particularly pertinent for vehicles equipped with a sunroof. The additional glass surface area provides more space for condensation to form and freeze, making proactive ventilation and cleaning even more essential.
By incorporating this quick cleaning task into a daily or weekly schedule, drivers can maintain their vehicle in better condition and drastically reduce the chances of a frozen windscreen. The few minutes invested in evening maintenance will be repaid the following morning with the ability to drive away immediately, without the hassle of de-icing.
As temperatures plummet this December and throughout the Christmas season, this simple trick from the RAC could be the key to safer, less stressful winter journeys.
