Drivers urged to put tea bags in their cars to avoid £2,500 fine

19 hours ago 8

Cars parked on residential street covered in snow

With more cold weather forecast, drivers have been given a tip to help them prevent misted windows (Image: Getty)

A motoring expert has shared an unconventional yet surprisingly successful tip for drivers to stop their vehicle's windows from misting up on cold winter mornings.

With temperatures across the UK remaining particularly low, most drivers already know the frustration of having to wait behind the wheel as their windows demist before they can set off.

To avoid the long wait, Ben Pitcher, a motoring expert at the diesel particulate filter cleaning service DPF Experts, has recommended drivers place tea bags on their dashboard.

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."

Close up of a pair of tea bags with strings

Tea is able to absorb moisture in the air before it reaches the vehicle's windows (Image: Getty)

Whilst it may sound silly, black and green tea can absorb moisture, meaning that they can soak up ondensation that may form inside a car before it can stick to the windows.

To get the best results, drivers will need to place multiple bags close to the windscreen, such as on the dashboard, with some drivers insisting that used tea bags work best.

The bags used to make a brew can also help absorb any unpleasant odours that may be present inside a car, replacing them with the subtle smell of fresh tea.

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Paper packet of silica gel on a white background

The expert highlighted that packets of silica gel can also be an effective way of absorbing moisture (Image: Getty)

Alternatively, Ben highlighted that drivers who got plenty of new presents over Christmas could also use the small packets of silica gel to prevent their windows misting up.

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 what items they use to prevent their car windows from fogging up, it is vital that drivers wait until they have a clear view of the road before they begin their journey.

Condensation on the windscreen can vastly increase a vehicle's blind spots, making it much more difficult for motorists to spot other road users who are nearby.

As a result, Brits who drive a vehicle with misted windows risk causing serious accidents and could also receive fines spanning up to £2,500 and licence points.

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