Deicing Your Windows

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated May 28, 2010)

I really don't like going outside every morning to deice my windows. If you live in cooler (or even colder) climates, then chances are pretty good that you know what I'm referring to.

Over the years I have tried many different methods for deicing windows. I discovered that some work (though at a risk) while others seem to work just fine at preventing ice from forming (what better way of deicing your windows—provided you remember to do it, and others work—but require you to get really cold. Here are some methods, and a brief description of what happened to me when I used them.

  • Defroster. Probably the most common method available. Unfortunately, this method also comes with risks. While a properly working defroster can quickly (no more than 20 minutes usually) remove icy build up, it can also worsen any preexisting cracks in your windshields if turned on too high. There is another drawback to this method, and that is its cost. You can't really run the defroster without turning on the engine, and that takes gasoline.
  • Scraper. The traditional method for removing ice from windshields, a scraper should be in every vehicle that is in a cold climate. In fact, many car rental companies include them in their cars when you rent a vehicle from them during the winter. On average, this method can take about as much time as the defroster method, and while you are not as likely to crack your windshield, you will most likely get cold.
  • Vinegar. One of the best ways for deicing your windshield and windows is to prevent the ice from forming at all. However, not everyone has a garage that they can store their car in. In those situations, it is best to use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water. Use half vinegar (any kind, though I prefer white since it does not smell as much) and half water in a spray bottle and spray it on your windows at night. This helps prevent ice from forming. The only drawback is that you have to remember to use it at night, otherwise it doesn't do you very much good. Although you can still remove ice by spraying some on your windows in the morning, you'll just need a whole lot more.
  • Rubbing Alcohol. For those who really need to move, try putting about 5 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol into your windshield washer reservoir. This turns the regular windshield washer fluid into a deicing agent at a fraction of the cost, and works wonderfully. Simply spray and use your windshield wipers as normal.
  • Blanket. This is perhaps the easiest way to prevent ice build up on your windshield. Just place a blanket over your windshield at night, and remove it before driving anywhere.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

MORE FROM LEE

Using a Meat Thermometer

Having a meat thermometer in the kitchen of your home, while a great start, does absolutely nothing if you aren't using ...

Discover More

Becoming More Organized in College

Who doesn't need a little extra help when it comes to college? If you have been to college, then you remember how ...

Discover More

How to Check Your Brake Fluid

Too many people go by without checking their brake fluid themselves, and leave it for their periodic tune up. Instead of ...

Discover More
More Car Tips

Ensuring Your Heater and Defroster Works Properly

As the weather starts to get cold, we tend to turn up the heater in our car. Don't wait until the last minute to find out ...

Discover More

Winter Battery Care

When winter rolls around, there is pretty much nothing that is affected by the cold weather than your battery. Instead of ...

Discover More

De-Icing Your Car Door

One of the most common issues that a car owner can face during the winter is their door getting iced shut. Instead of ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 6 - 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)