Foggy car windshields – a common winter problem for many of us!
Have you ever been driving when your windshield fogs up, so you put the defroster on blast? Many times the fog goes away, only to return again a few minutes later.
Or maybe your side windows fog up, so you roll down the windows and then up again to get the moisture off – only to have to do it again moments later.
It can feel like a never-ending cycle! The good news is there are some easy ways to keep your windows free and clear this winter.
WHAT CAUSES WINSDHIELDS TO FOG UP?
When there is a difference in temperature and humidity between the inside and outside of your car, condensation forms on the glass of your windshield.
Fog normally forms on the inside of your car during the wintertime because the temperature and humidity on the inside of your vehicle are higher than on the outside. Add in the hot breath of your car’s passengers and condensation has the perfect environment to form.
6 WAYS TO PREVENT YOUR CAR FROM FOGGING UP
1. Keep Your Windows Clean
Dirt and oils build up on the windshield glass, which attracts condensation. The first step to being fog-free is to make sure your windows are kept clean on all sides. Use a window cleaner with paper towels or a lint-free microfibre towel.
2. Use Anti-Fog Spray
Anti-fog sprays have chemicals and alcohol to prevent water from condensing on the windshield. These sprays are also an affordable solution with bottles averaging from $8.00 – $11.00 at common retailers.
In winter, fog forms on the inside of your car – so, make sure you are using a spray that is designed for interior glass.
In summer, fog forms on the outside of your car – which means you’ll want to use an anti-fog spray designed for exterior windshields and windows.
For best results, remember to always clean your windshield/windows well before using the anti-fog spray.
3. Make Your Own Anti-Fog Solution
Surprisingly enough, there are common household items in your home that can also be used as anti-fog solutions:
- Shaving Cream & Cloth: Use the foaming kind of shave cream and spray a small amount onto a cloth. Wipe it all over the glass, then wipe it down with a fresh, clean cloth.
- Vinegar & Hot Water: Mix two parts of hot water along with one part of vinegar in a spray bottle and mist the inside of your windshield before you start driving. You can also substitute the vinegar for isopropyl alcohol.
- Potato & Cloth: Yes, a potato! The starch and sugars in potatoes can act really well as a fog repellent. Cut a potato in half and rub the exposed half on your windshield. Then, wipe off any juice left behind.
4. Turn Off the Recirculate Button
Many people have seen the recirculate button on their console, but aren’t totally sure what it does. Turning this button on means your car will use air from the inside for heating and cooling. In other words, it continually recirculates the same air from the inside.
When condensation forms on the inside of your car during the winter, recirculating warm and moist air isn’t a great idea because the windshield fog will continue to thrive. Make sure the recirculate button is turned off to avoid further issues.
5. Turn the Heat & Air Conditioning On
Our Manitoban winters are frigid, which means we like the heat on constantly in our car. But unfortunately, warm air causes condensation. The solution? Crank up the air conditioning at the same time as the heat! The A/C will dry out the air and reduce the moisture inside your car, reducing the chances of your windshield fogging up.
6. Blast the Defroster
Have you tried Steps 1 to 5 and still can’t get rid of the pesky fog on your windshield? The last resort is to turn the defroster on max. This will send out warm, dry air that will evaporate the moisture on the windshield’s interior.
Just remember that this is a temporary fix! If there is still high humidity inside the vehicle, the fog is guaranteed to come back. If it does, continue trying Steps 1-5.
Is your car suited for Manitoba winters? If not, perhaps it’s time to get an SUV or truck! Our inventory includes many great winter-ready rides. Learn everything you need to know about buying and trading in today!
