How to demist your car’s windscreen
Clear your windscreen with these simple steps.
Key points
- Misty windscreens can make it hard to see and put you at risk. Clearing them with warm, dry air helps you stay safe.
- Use your heater and air conditioning together to warm and dry the air. Avoid the recirculation setting and bring in fresh air instead.
- If your car doesn’t have aircon, crack the windows to let in fresh air and reduce humidity. This works best when combined with other methods.
- To help stop mist before it starts, keep your car dry and clean. Moisture absorbers and anti-fog treatments can make a difference.
Condensation on your car’s windscreen can be a real pain, especially on cold or rainy days. If you don’t deal with it, it can make it difficult to see the road ahead of you and could put you in danger’s way.
Luckily, there are quick and effective ways to clear your windscreen and prevent it from misting up again.
Demisting your windscreen is all about balancing temperature and airflow. Warm, dry air removes moisture from the glass, and fresh air stops it from fogging up again.
There are a few ways you can do this.
How to demist your windscreen using the heater
- Turn on the heater, set it to the fastest fan speed and direct the air towards the windscreen.
- Increase the temperature gradually rather than starting on the hottest temperature. Starting with cool air instead and slowly increasing the heat prevents excess moisture.
- Keep it on. Don’t turn the heater off as soon as the mist clears. Instead, turn down the fan speed and keep it running to prevent the mist from coming back. You can turn down the temperature a bit if it gets too warm in your car.
How to demist your windscreen using the air conditioning
- Turn on the air conditioning. Even in winter, aircon helps remove moisture from the air.
- Combine it with the heater. Using both together speeds up the process by warming and drying the air at the same time.
- Don't use the air recirculation setting, as it traps moist air inside the car. Instead, bring in fresh air from outside.
How to demist your windscreen using your windows
If your car doesn’t have air conditioning or a powerful heater, opening the windows can help:
- Lower the windows slightly. Letting in fresh air balances the temperature and reduces humidity inside the car.
- Combine this with other methods. If you’re using the heater, cracking a window can speed up the process.
Why does my windscreen mist up?
Misting happens when warm, moist air inside your car meets the cold surface of the windscreen. This causes condensation to form, similar to how a bathroom mirror steams up after a hot shower. Several things can add moisture in your car, including:
- Wet clothing or shoes bringing in damp air.
- Passengers breathing, which increases humidity.
- Leaks letting in rainwater.
- Using recirculated air instead of fresh air.
How to help prevent your windscreen from misting up
Stopping mist before it forms can save you time and hassle. Here are some ways to help prevent your windscreen from fogging up:
- Keep the car dry. Remove wet clothing, umbrellas, and shoes from the car to stop excess moisture from building up.
- Use a moisture absorber. Products like silica gel packs or dedicated car dehumidifiers can help keep the air dry.
- Apply anti-fog treatments. You can buy sprays or wipes that reduce condensation buildup on your windscreen.
- Regularly clean the glass. Dirt and grease can attract moisture, making misting worse. Wipe your windscreen with a microfibre cloth and a glass cleaner.
- Check for leaks. If water is getting into your car, it’ll increase humidity levels and cause more misting.
- Store your car in a garage. Keeping your car in a dry space reduces the chance of moisture buildup overnight.
Does car insurance cover windscreen issues?
A misted-up windscreen can be dangerous and even illegal if it affects your ability to see clearly. If your windscreen is damaged, such as with chips or cracks, it could make misting even worse.
Many comprehensive car insurance policies cover windscreen damage, including repairs and replacements. It’s worth checking your policy to see what’s included, as some insurers offer windscreen cover as an optional extra.
Related articles
Ready to get cover?
Aviva Signature car insurance has been given a 5 Star Rating by Defaqto.
Choose from comprehensive or third party, fire and theft car insurance.