Knowing how to demist your car windows can be a real time-saver in the winter months. Winter driving isn’t for everyone and we can see why; it’s cold, it’s dark for most of the day and you have to get out of bed that little bit earlier to prepare your car before driving away.
Foggy windows are a common occurrence in winter due to temperatures plummeting outside. Condensation is caused when warm moisture that’s carried through the air meets a cold surface.
Remember that it’s dangerous and illegal to drive off if your vision is obscured, so don’t be tempted to skip this step before you set off. Read on for our tips on how to demist your car windows faster!
Why do car windows fog up?
When the temperature is cool and humidity is high, this causes condensation inside your car. When the air outside is cooler than inside the car it can cause your windows to steam up on the inside.
What is the fastest way to demist car window?
The quickest way to demist your windows is to use the heaters. Direct your car heaters at the windscreen and the windows and increase the temperature from the cold. Warm air can absorb water much faster than cold air, so once the engine has heated up, it’ll soon clear your windows.
Ways to demist car windows:
Switch on the air con.
Not all cars have air con but if yours is equipped with it then use it alongside the heater. This will help to keep the air inside the car dry, as the warm air from the heater on the cool glass can cool down and condense again. Air con will help to prevent this process and let you drive off that bit faster. However, using your air-con can waste fuel so be wary when blasting the aircon.
Roll down your windows.
If you have no air con or climate control in your car then use your windows if it’s not too cold outside. The dry air from outside can help clear your screen faster by reducing the amount of water vapour in the air.
Tips for preventing foggy windows and reducing mist:
Having to dim your windows before driving off can add time to your morning routine. Try making getting to work smoother with our top tips for reducing foggy windows in the morning.
Shaving cream.
One tip to keep your windscreen clear is to use shaving foam – yes, you read that correctly! Shaving foam creates a protective film over the glass and can help prevent condensation.
- Use a clean towel and apply a dollop of your favourite brand of shaving cream onto it.
- Spread the foam over the entire surface.
- Using a new clean towel, wipe it off.
- You will now have a fog-free windscreen.
Cat litter in a sock.
We’re honestly not making these up! Another tip is to put cat litter inside of a sock and place it in your car the night before you are due to drive. Cat litter is designed to pull moisture from the air and it will help reduce condensation on your window. Putting it on your dashboard will be most effective but if you would prefer, you can place it anywhere in your car.
Get a car dehumidifier.
Car dehumidifiers were designed to eliminate the need to demist your windows now. They can be nought for as little as £10 and work to absorb excess moisture in your vehicle You can then start your daily commute with a clear windshield. Just simply pop the humidifier in your vehicle and leave it in there to do its job.