Motorists have been told to rub toothpaste over their car windscreen this October, with the simple at-home DIY hack likely to save drivers from hefty fines. Car condensation is a major issue at this time of the year, with steamed-up windows and windscreens likely to be a concern.
Meanwhile, heavy rain showers can completely cover the windscreen, restricting road users’ visibility of the road ahead. If road vision is compromised, drivers could face fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for operating a vehicle in a dangerous condition. Experts at BigWantsYourCar have suggested that toothpaste could be the fix, with the simple household hack likely to have major benefits.
A spokesperson for BigWantsYourCar.com said: “Toothpaste contains mild abrasives that can smooth the surface of mirrors or glass, preventing water droplets from sticking.
“While it is not a permanent fix, it can offer a simple, low-cost way of improving visibility during downpours. For less than the price of a cup of coffee, drivers could gain a bit more peace of mind when the rain is at its worst.”
They said toothpaste could help create a temporary barrier that helps raindrops slide away instead of pooling. The experts stressed the tool could even be a remedy for misted windscreens and cloudy headlights ahead of the Autumn months.
Simply buffing headlights with toothpaste are said to improve the clarity of the light, while a thin layer of toothpaste inside the windscreen can help cut condensation build-up.
BigWantsYourCar added: “Small, inexpensive hacks like these can make a surprising difference in day-to-day driving, but they should never replace proper maintenance.
“Drivers should always ensure their mirrors, windscreens and lights are cleaned regularly and kept in good working order. The key message is that visibility is non-negotiable. A few minutes of preparation could save you from accidents, penalty points and unnecessary costs.”
The RAC has previously warned that another bathroom staple may be just as powerful.
They said: “Take a clean towel and place a dollop of shaving foam onto it. Wipe the windscreen with the towel, spreading the shaving foam over the entire surface. Then take another clean towel and wipe off the shaving foam completely.
“This protective barrier should help stop your windscreen from misting up, but it will need to be regularly reapplied to continue to work.”
