Is Automotive Windshield Washer Fluid Toxic?
2 Answers
Automotive windshield washer fluid is toxic. It is primarily composed of water, alcohol, ethylene glycol, corrosion inhibitors, and various surfactants. Inferior-quality windshield washer fluids are often diluted with water and alcohol, which can cause some irritation to human skin. After cleaning the windshield, the fluid flows near the air conditioning intake, and the volatile fumes from the fluid can enter the cabin through the vehicle's air conditioning ventilation ducts. These emitted gases are harmful and can become an invisible health hazard to car owners. Automotive windshield washer fluid is widely used for rapid dirt removal and bright cleaning of various types of glass, including car windows, rearview mirrors, as well as household, office, door, window, and decorative glass.
I've been using windshield washer fluid to clean the front windshield, and I feel it does have some toxicity, but it's safe with proper handling. The main ingredients include alcohol, methanol, and detergents—definitely not drinkable. Accidental ingestion can cause poisoning, leading to stomach pain or respiratory issues. A few years ago, my friend's dog licked some and had to be rushed to the vet after vomiting. So, always store it on high shelves or locked away, out of reach of children and pets. Spraying can also splash onto skin or eyes—I usually wear gloves when handling it, and if contact occurs, rinse immediately. But no need to stress over daily use; just buy reputable brands and avoid cheap knockoffs. In winter, using antifreeze-type fluid is safer to prevent the reservoir from cracking. Remember, safety first—just make sure it doesn’t obstruct your driving visibility.