A motoring expert has shared how an unlikely item can help them avoid a significantly higher risk of accidents and fines of up to £2,500.
Whilst the beginning of spring has seen days grow longer and temperatures rise, Brits making early starts are realising that it can still be particularly cold, with many drivers still waiting for their windscreens to demist.
However, Ben Pitcher, a motoring expert at the diesel particulate filter (DPF) cleaning service DPF Experts, noted that drivers can avoid the wait altogether by putting some teabags in their car.
He advised: “Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months.
“Though they aren’t as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they’re a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness.”
Whilst it may sound preposterous at first, green and black tea are able to absorb moisture that can form when the temperature inside a car is different to that outside.
By placing teabags or small bowls of loose tea around the interior of their car, such as on the dashboard or in the door pockets, motorists can lower the risk of condensation forming on the windscreen.
Drivers may also find that the bags can improve the smell inside their car, with tea also said to absorb any unpleasant odours, replacing them with the fragrance of a freshly brewed cup.
Alternatively, Ben suggested that motorists can get very similar effects by placing small packets of silica gel inside, commonly packed alongside items like electronics, can also be used to clear the screen before early morning trips.
He continued: “Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture.
“Collecting a few and placing them around your car can help control condensation. While they won’t clear foggy windows instantly, they can help reduce moisture and keep your windscreen clearer for longer.”
No matter the method a driver uses, it is vital that they make sure that their vehicle’s windows are completely free from any form of condensation before setting off.
According to Rule 229 of the Highway Code, drivers must ensure good visibility at all times by clearing any obstructions that could result in larger blind spots.
Motorists caught behind the wheel of a vehicle with misted-up windows not only have a much higher risk of causing an accident with surrounding road users they were unable to spot, they may also be issued a fine ranging from £100 to £2,500 fines.