This winter has been a rough one for some places in the US and further north, and I doubt we’ve seen the last of winter. Where I live, we’re getting the first big snow of the year this week, so I thought I’d post a quick recipe for a homemade and chemical-free de-icer for your windshield! You can either use this the night before or spray on top of the ice to help it melt a little faster when you warm your car up in the morning.
Windshield De-Icer
- Water
- Rubbing Alcohol (must be labeled 70% Isopropyl Alcohol)
- Dish soap
Mix together your own solution with a 2:1 ratio of alcohol and water, then put in a tiny bit of dish soap (1 teaspoon for every 3 cups of water) and mix together. Put it in a clean spray bottle, and label it for future reference. Be sure the water is at most room temperature if you intend to use it immediately, as otherwise you run the risk of cracking your windows.
Spray the mixture on your windshield before the storm hits to try and prevent ice, or spray it the in the morning when you warm up your car to help the ice loosen. Because alcohol has a much higher freezing point than just water it should hinder the forming of ice on your car. Of course, it does have a freezing point, so if you’re experiencing super sub-zero temperatures, it might not do quite as much. Still, worth a shot!
I have also heard many people use a saltwater or water/vinegar mixture to prevent ice in slightly warmer temperatures, but I’ve heard that vinegar isn’t really good for your windows and have not tried it. If you have, let me know if if it worked!
What do you do to help get your car ready for the winter? Share with us in the comments!! Try and stay warm, everyone!
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