How to Prevent Ice on a Windshield With Vinegar

Driving with an icy windshield can endanger your safety.

Few things are more frustrating than discovering ice plastered on your vehicle's windshield. According to the Portland Cement Association, ice that forms on the windshield of a car is caused by the freezing of moisture vapor against the glass surface. If not properly removed from your windshield, the ice can hinder your vision and endanger your safety and well-being and the safety and well-being of other drivers. Consider using a mixture of vinegar and water to prevent ice from forming on your windshield.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring cup
• Spray bottle
• Vinegar

Instructions

1. Fill a spray bottle with 75-percent vinegar and 25-percent water. According to the Michigan State University Extension, a combination of vinegar and water will keep windshields ice free and frost free. Shake the spray bottle for a few minutes to ensure that the vinegar and water mix together well.

2. Spray your vehicle's windshield with the vinegar and water solution thoroughly until it's evenly coated. Try to spray in the evening, just before daylight fades, for maximum success. Allow the solution to soak onto your windshield.

3. Reapply the vinegar and water solution to your vehicle's windshield on a daily or as-needed basis. Repeat the previous steps for lasting success.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't want to use vinegar on your windshield, you can use rubbing alcohol instead.

• You can prevent ice from forming on your vehicle's other windows by preparing and spraying the vinegar and water solution on those windows as well.

• Make sure you measure the appropriate amount of water and vinegar into the spray bottle, as not enough water or not enough vinegar could cause the solution to fail.

References

• Portland Cement Association: Kiln Cycling Produces that Dam Ring
• Michigan State University Extension: Homemade Cleaners