Out of de-icer when you really need it? Try these cheap and easy homemade solutions to defrost your windscreen

Savvy drivers have been offered tips on how to de-ice their vehicles as temperatures begin to plummet – without the need for shop bought chemical formulas.

Motoring experts from LeaseCar.uk have researched and revealed four cheap and easy homemade de-icer solutions, using alcohol, dish soap, vinegar and salt.

When temperatures dip below freezing, icy windshields and locks can become a real problem for busy drivers on the move.

A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “We’ve all been there. You’re running late for work in the morning and dash outside to find Jack Frost has paid a visit – but to make matters worse, you’ve ran out of de-icer spray.

“Instead of frantically scraping away at a thick layer of ice that refuses to budge, there are some homemade formulas you can make with common kitchen items that will help to quick things up.

“These present much more eco-friendly options too, as shop-bought de-icers emit lots of chemicals into the atmosphere.

“You can then use a plastic ice scraper to remove the ice as it begins to thaw. A plastic scraper should only be used to remove chunks of ice that are already thawed and should not be pressed against the windshield as it can scratch the glass if enough force is used.

“That said, you could save yourself any hassle at all by using tarp or purpose made covers to protect your windscreen from the cold completely.”

1. Alcohol

Mix one part water to two parts rubbing alcohol, apply to your windows and watch the ice peel right off!

2. Dish soap

Use a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol (50% works too, but not as well) with a few drops of dish soap, then apply liberally to the glass with a spray bottle.

3. Vinegar

If you spray an iced windshield with a mixture of water and vinegar, while the mixture will not melt ice, it can help ice from forming in the first place if you spray your windshield with it the night before.

4. Salt

Mix one tablespoon of salt with two cups of water. Apply the mixture to your windshield and the salt will melt the ice.