Here's a quick method to defrost your windshield, but I can't recommend it

For the first time this autumn, I found myself battling a frozen windshield and fresh frost. So, I shall present my tried and tested method for swiftly removing stubborn ice. I initially tried a basic scraper, but it was too time-consuming. In response, I made a quick trip back home for the most effective tool: a liquid readily available in every household.

Applying a little warm water from a dish can do the trick in 10 seconds flat. Witness as the thick, unyielding layer of ice vanishes before your eyes. Follow this up with a swipe of the windshield wipers, and you're all set to go. I've used this method since the previous winter, which has never damaged my car's windshield. Do I urge you to follow suit? Not exactly, but I won't deter you either.

Utilizing this method may not be entirely risk-free, raising concerns as the contact of warm water with a frozen windshield might lead to a potential risk of cracking. This is why I only resort to this approach with my vehicle. In haste, the repair cost may be significant; replacing a modern car's windshield could cost several thousand Polish Zlotys. Moreover, procurement of a replacement for the latest models might prove challenging.

So, what is the risk of the windshield cracking? It is minimal and primarily theoretical unless you make a mistake. Yet, the potential gains versus the possible loss present an undesirable risk balance. Just because I've been regularly using this method doesn't exempt your windshield from cracking the first time.

If you are daring enough to try it for yourself, I suggest you stick with a few rules that I abide by (I've yet to experience windshield cracking despite using it dozens of times on four different vehicles):

• This method should only apply in mild frost conditions, up to about 23°F. In colder weather conditions, the water refreezes quickly, thus making this trick a nuisance.
• Use slightly warm water that is perceptibly warm and close to body temperature.
• Pour the water gently from the top in a generous stream, preferably from a small dish, as seen in the provided image.
• After pouring the water, activate the windshield wipers to wipe off any remaining residue from the windshield.

Firstly, because it's swift, If you meet the above conditions, there's no quicker method to remove ice from a windshield. Even if temperatures are lower, the refrozen water can be effortlessly scraped off or defrosted, making this method usable in colder conditions, albeit demanding more labor and potentially more water.

Secondly, because it's economically wise - quite possibly the least expensive method available, even when compared to other homemade techniques; thirdly, despite what you may think, it's relatively safe. Even though there's always a risk of a cracked windshield, maintaining the correct temperature minimizes such risk. Consider also the absence of windshield scratches caused by scraping implements and lack of harm to car seals or paintwork, which can't be said for certain car chemicals. Essentially, water is a neutral entity concerning your car.