Unusual potato hack could easily clear your car windscreen

Brits are being encouraged to use one garden-variety vegetable to help keep their windows clean throughout the remaining winter months.

While having a clear windscreen can make it easier to drive, especially in the dark mornings when visibility is low, it’s also a legal requirement. Rule 229 of the Highway Code states that drivers must be able to see out of their vehicle’s windows and should therefore clear them off all snow and ice.

One strange yet supposedly effective solution to this is to use a humble potato. According to one expert, a raw potato can prevent water from accumulating and fogging up car windows for those struggling with visibility during the winter months.

 “It may seem strange, but this unassuming potato has some scientific backing,” says Pete Ridley, an expert at Car Finance Saver.

“The starch in the potato forms a clear layer on the glass that prevents water and condensation from adhering. It’s straightforward, easy to do, and, most importantly, it’s very inexpensive! ” This coating also minimises fogging by stopping moisture molecules from sticking to the glass, providing an easy method for improving visibility in wet or chilly weather. 

Here’s how to use the hack effectively:

1. Start with Clean Windows: For the best results, ensure your car windows are clean and dry before starting.

2. Cut a Potato in Half: Grab a raw potato and slice it in half.

3. Rub the Potato on the Windows: Use the cut side of the potato to rub evenly over the exterior of your car windows in small circles, making sure to cover the entire surface.

4. Let It Dry: Allow the potato residue to dry naturally – that means no hairdryers.

To fully reap the benefits of this hack, there are a few additional steps that can enhance its effectiveness and help maintain clear windows for a longer period.

It is recommended that you reapply the potato coating after heavy rain or washing your car to maintain the protective layer.

Keep a potato in the glovebox during winter for quick touch-ups when bad weather strikes unexpectedly. Gently buff the windows with a soft cloth if streaks appear after the coating dries, ensuring crystal-clear visibility.

“Bad weather shouldn’t mean unsafe driving,” says Ridley. “This hack proves that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. It’s a budget-friendly way to keep visibility high, reduce frustration, and drive safely through the toughest conditions.”