How to Deal with Foggy Windows While Driving?
4 Answers
Here are solutions for foggy windows while driving: 1. Use specialized anti-fog products. These products are available at auto accessory stores or online. Before each use, spray evenly on the windows and wipe clean to form a transparent protective film that prevents fogging. One application can last 10 to 15 days, but the downside is the higher cost. 2. Use dish soap with a dry cloth. Mix dish soap with water (ratio 1:6), apply evenly on the interior windows with a sponge, and wipe clean with a car towel after drying, leaving no watermarks. This method typically keeps windows fog-free for up to 20 hours. The principle is similar to using anti-fog spray, though slightly less effective, but it's a simple and economical alternative.
What annoys me most when driving is the foggy windshield in winter—blurred vision is so dangerous. Recently, I researched a three-step method: first, turn the air conditioning to maximum, adjust the airflow to the windshield, and remember to turn on the external circulation to vent out the moisture. Setting the temperature to around 22°C with warm air is ideal; cold air defogs quickly but gets too chilly over time. There’s also a folk remedy—mixing dish soap with water at a 1:10 ratio and wiping the glass, which keeps it fog-free for days. Before driving, remember to remove wet towels or clothes from the car—they’re the main culprits for fogging. If fog suddenly appears, don’t panic—turn on the hazard lights, pull over, and handle it safely first.
I've dealt with foggy windows many times and found that prevention is the most effective. Open the car doors for a few minutes before heading out in the morning to balance the temperature inside and outside. When driving, avoid blowing warm air directly at your face, as moisture will condense on the cold glass. Cracking the windows slightly also helps, but on highways, it's better to use the air conditioning to defog. Remember to replace the cabin air filter regularly, as a dirty filter reduces dehumidification effectiveness. On rainy days, using the wipers can clear external fog, and keeping a desiccant pack inside the car helps prevent moisture. Last time, I noticed that a windshield with oil film fogs up more easily, but treating it with an oil film remover solved the problem.
Last time when taking my kid to school, the windshield was completely fogged up and I almost missed the school gate! Now I've developed a habit: turn on the defogger button as soon as I start the car - most vehicles have this snowflake symbol button on the dashboard. Using AC is the fastest way to defog, it clears up in just 30 seconds, then you can turn it off when it's cool enough. For long distances, using the heater is more comfortable, but remember to press the A/C button when fogging occurs. Here's a little trick: don't point the AC vents directly at the windshield, as it may cause repeated fogging. Also remember to use the rear window defroster lines, especially useful on rainy days. Always carry a microfiber cloth for emergency fog wiping - you can get one for 5 yuan at car wash shops.
