Travelling by car in winter is more challenging than in summer. Not only can road conditions be difficult, but it can also be harder to get on the road at all. Especially for those who park their car outside. They often have to contend with frozen windows or clearing snow before driving themselves. And the fogging of the windows inside the car is also related to this.

Everyday reality

Ideally, the car should be parked in a heated garage. Or have plenty of time to let the car defrost and warm up. But the day-to-day reality for most of us is very different. We’re in a hurry to get to work or with the kids to school or daycare. Morning hygiene, breakfast, getting dressed….There’s often not enough time left to get the car perfectly ready to drive.

However, driving with frosted or fogged windows is not a good idea. Not only because you can’t see well out of the car. Even the police wouldn’t be happy if they met you in a car that you can only see out of through a small window. And it would cost you money for nothing. You’re unlikely to be fined. But how do you make sure the car is ready to go as soon as possible?

Why do the windows fog up?

Condensation starts the moment warm air from the heater comes into contact with cold surfaces in your car. In addition, moisture can also come from your breath or wet clothes. The temperatures outside are low and the air inside is warming up. Contact with cold windows cools it and releases stored moisture. The result is just foggy windows.

━━ ( Source: Gareth Hubbard /  Unsplash+ )

How to get rid of moisture

You can effectively combat moisture in your car. You can go to the store and buy a special dehumidifier that absorbs the moisture and then you just dry it in the microwave. They also sell special anti-fog sprays. But there is another cheaper option. Tea bags work great.

Experts say that black or green tea bags are particularly suitable. They are natural moisture absorbers. It’s a cheap and also environmentally friendly solution for dealing with less moisture in the car. It’s probably clear that one bag can’t absorb all the moisture. It’s a good idea to take several bags and put them on the dashboard.

This trick is also recommended by DPF Experts expert Ben Pitcher. According to him and other drivers, used tea bags work best. The important thing is to change them regularly in the car. And where to put them? Apart from the dashboard, he says it’s ideal to put them in cup holders or under the seats.

Comprehensive care

Using tea bags or special dehumidifiers are a great solution against condensation. However, it’s important to remember that the car also needs extra care. It is a good idea to maintain the heating system regularly and also ventilate the vehicle if you can. You should also remember that it is not a good idea to leave damp or wet items in the car.

Other tips for less condensation:

  • Clean the inside of the windows to prevent dirt from settling on them.
  • Use an air conditioner that absorbs moisture.
  • Direct the fan towards the glass.
  • Never run the air recuperation system.