Drivers urged to put tea bags in their cars to avoid £2,500 fine and prevent common winter issue

A motoring expert has revealed a quirky but effective trick for drivers to prevent their car windows from fogging up during the chilly winter mornings. With the UK experiencing particularly low temperatures, the familiar annoyance of waiting for car windows to clear before driving off is something most motorists can relate to.

To avoid this delay, Ben Pitcher, a motoring specialist at DPF Experts, suggests placing tea bags on the dashboard. He explained: "Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months."

"Though they aren't as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they're a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness."

While it might seem odd, black and green tea have moisture-absorbing properties, which means they can capture the condensation inside a vehicle before it clings to the windows.

For the best results, multiple tea bags should be positioned near the windscreen, such as on the dashboard, with some motorists claiming that used tea bags are more effective. The same tea bags that make a cuppa can also neutralise any bad smells in the car, replacing them with a faint aroma of fresh tea, reports the Express.

Additionally, Ben pointed out that those who received new gifts over Christmas could use the small silica gel packets that often come with them to keep their windows from misting up.

He went on to say: "Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture."

"Collecting a few and placing them around your car can help control condensation. While they won't clear foggy windows instantly, they can help reduce moisture and keep your windscreen clearer for longer."

It's crucial that drivers ensure they have a clear view of the road before setting off, regardless of what items they use to prevent their car windows from fogging up. Condensation on the windscreen can significantly increase a vehicle's blind spots, making it much harder for drivers to see other road users who are close by.

Consequently, Brits who drive with misted windows risk causing serious accidents and could also face fines of up to £2,500 and points on their licence.