Can Dishwashing Liquid Remove Fog from Car Windows?
2 Answers
Dishwashing liquid can remove fog from car windows because it contains surfactants that can alter the surface tension of water, causing fog droplets to quickly condense into larger water droplets, thereby achieving an anti-fog effect. Drivers can mix dishwashing liquid with water (approximately a 1:6 ratio), apply it evenly to the interior glass with a sponge, and after it dries, wipe it clean with a dry cloth, ensuring no streaks are left. The effect can last for about half a month. In winter, due to the significant temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car, when the warm interior air meets the cold glass, it changes from a gaseous state to a liquid state, resulting in fog or small water droplets forming on the windows. The same principle applies when fog appears on car windows.
I previously tried using dish soap to deal with foggy car windows, and it did work temporarily, especially during winter when the humidity inside the car is high. The principle is simple: the ingredients in dish soap can break the surface tension of water, forming a thin layer that prevents fog droplets from forming. The method involves mixing a little with water, applying it to the glass, and then wiping it dry with a cloth. However, this is only a temporary emergency measure; the effect doesn't last very long. It might fog up again after just half an hour of driving, and you'd still need to rely on the air conditioning's dehumidification for a lasting solution. I think it's fine to use this method occasionally in daily life, but you have to be careful not to apply it too thickly or let it get into the rubber seals, as corrosion could be troublesome if it happens. Normally, when driving, I stick to preheating the car and using the heater to blow directly on the windshield, which is much more reliable than dish soap. Remember, the key is to control the air circulation inside the car and prevent large temperature differences.
