Motorists can 'remove ice' from windscreens using 17p item found in every kitchen

Motorists can 'remove ice from their cars in no time at all (Image: Getty)

Drivers can de-ice their car windscreens in just seconds using a common item found in most kitchen cupboards this winter, according to experts. 

Specialists at LeaseCar.UK warns motorists that simply filling a sandwich bag with lukewarm water and running over the glass can help remove cover in no time at all.

Frost and ice should melt quickly on the glass when the warm bag glances over the screen, ensuring motorists have clear vision in no time at all.

Road users must ensure their windscreen is completely clear of any ice before setting off to ensure they are complying fully with the Highway Code. 

Leaving some sections of glass still covered is against the rules and may also mean motorists are unaware of immediate road hazards. 

Motorists must clear frost and ice before setting off (Image: Getty)

LeaseCar.UK explained: "A ziplock sandwich bag filled with lukewarm water can help remove ice in seconds. Don’t use piping hot water otherwise your windshield could crack."

Experts at Rooster Insurance also issued the same advice but admitted road users must make sure the water temperature was not too hot. 

Running boiling hot water over a windscreen can backfire with the sudden change of temperature likely to cause the glass to expand and even crack.

They said: "If you take a bag full of warm water, make sure it's warm and not boiling and rub it on the windscreen. That will take off a thin layer of ice or snow.

"Honestly, the best thing to do is just to wake up on time, turn on your car heater and let the car warm up gradually."

However, some motoring experts have urged drivers not to fall for online hacks and homemade tips. 

The RAC warned drivers against using the sandwich bag solution to clear car windscreens, with the AA in close agreement. 

The AA said: "The internet was in meltdown when a driver shared his 'hack' of putting hot water in a sandwich bag to defrost his windscreen. 

"However, we wouldn't recommend trying this because the melted ice could refreeze and cause your windscreen wipers or even door handles to stick."

Specialists at Windscreen Wipers also suggested the move could have consequences later down the line. 

They added: "Another hack instructs drivers to rub hot water in a sandwich bag on the windscreen to quickly remove frost. 

"Hot water, even in a bag, can cause damage and small cracks in the glass which may not be noticeable until it's too late."