How to get rid of condensation on car windows explained

WET weather means fogged up windscreens, and setting off without clearing yours could land you with a fine.

But what’s the best way to clear condensation from your car windows? We take a look.

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Any driver knows they need a clear windscreen and windows before they set off.

Driving with your vision obscured could land you with a hefty fine, whether it’s foggy, icy or just plain dirty.

Unfortunately, colder temperatures and wetter weather means you’re going to have to spend more time cleaning your windscreen and windows through the winter months.

Julian Hartley, insurance director at Tesco Bank, said: “Dirt can build up quickly on winter roads, so pay extra attention to keeping all your windows and windscreen clean.

“You should also regularly check your screen wash, making sure it is topped up before any journeys.

“In the colder months, windows are more susceptible to condensation, so make sure you leave time to fully demist all your windows.”

How do you get rid of condensation on car windows?

Condensation occurs when the temperature inside is colder than it is outside.

So, when the barometer drops overnight, the inside of your car stays slightly warmer.

When the cold and warmer air meet, the water vapour in the air turns to water. And that means condensation on your windows.

Turning the air-con on is one way to clear condensation – though you might not fancy it on a chilly morning.

Make sure the air vents are aimed at the window for the best result.

Keeping your car clean can also help, as dust particles attract moisture.

Leave a cloth in the car and have a quick dust round just before you get out.

If you’re a pet owner, you could put your cat litter to good use.

Seriously – scoop some cat litter into an old pair of tights and keep it stowed in the car and it will help absorb the moisture in the air and reduce condensation.

A Mrs Hinch fan recently revealed the tip on Facebook.

And if you’ve got a wet coat, damp brolly or muddy boots in the car, don’t leave them in there overnight.

Anything that’s already wet will make the car damper, increasing the condensation build-up.

Is your car winter ready?

We have previously looked at how to de-ice your windscreen.

Simple tricks like putting a towel or blanket over the glass and using a homemade spray solution can help.

And you should definitely never use boiling water to de-ice.

But when the barometer isn’t quite low enough for frost, it’s condensation you’ll need to be on the look out for.

Tesco Bank said road accidents jump 8 per cent in the week after the clocks go back as the nights draw in.

That makes it all the more important to stay safe on the road.

Although a third of motorists say they aren’t prepared for winter driving.

You can get a winter car check, that will make sure your vehicle is safe for driving over the coming months.

And we’ve looked at eight things you should do to protect your motor from the snow.

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