De-ice car with game-changing kitchen cupboard staple, car expert urges

13 December 2023 , 16:03

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You could have the perfect de-icing ingredient sitting in your kitchen cupboard (Image: Getty Images)

It’s getting to the time of the year when you will have to brave the cold outside and get to de-icing the car.

One expert says that those desperate to de-ice their car windscreens this winter may just have the miracle ingredient in their cupboards and if you aren’t in a rush you could try out the unusual de-icing kitchen cupboard staple. Motoring specialists at have suggested coffee powder may be an easy fix available to many. The expert suggests that the properties of coffee are similar to salt making it a fairly unknown de-icing option.

The science behind it according to experts is that the dark colour of coffee grains can absorb sunlight and naturally melt ice. Also the texture of ground coffee and salt is similar which was another reason why coffee made a good substitute for de-icing.

Experts have suggested an unusual de-icing technique involving a kitchen cupboard staple (Getty Images)

Tim Alcock, spokesperson for LeaseCar said: “Coffee can double up as a de-icer. The dark colour of coffee grains can absorb sunlight and naturally helps to melt the ice.”

As well as using coffee granules as a de-icer, experts at have also suggested coffee could be used as a de-mister. They explained: “Too much moisture inside the car not only means fogged up windows but could also result in the windshield freezing from the inside.

Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

“To remedy this there are dehumidifiers available, however, even old socks filled with rice, salt, coffee powder, or cat litter, which can be placed in the footwell of the car, can help to absorb some of the moisture.”

According to the Highway Code penalty table, using a vehicle in a dangerous condition can see motorists get in trouble, it could even result in a £2,500 fine and a three penalty points and a discretionary driving ban. Failing to fully clear windscreens and windows of frost and mist is against the Highway Code and is likely to result in penalties.

reads: “Before you set off you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows. You MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are visible and legible. Make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.”

Mariam Khan