Standing out in the cold and scraping ice off of your car windows doesn’t always make for a nice morning. But while there are some alternatives to using a scraper, beware that some methods can do damage to your auto glass. To avoid windshield repair this winter, GlassPro, Inc. suggests ways you shouldn’t de-ice your windshield.

The following are some harmful practices that Cincinnati, OH’s leading mobile glass repair team highly advises against—and what you should do instead:

• Boiling Water: It might make sense that the fastest way to de-ice a windshield is to use hot water. However, this practice is extremely dangerous. The rapid temperature shift can cause any cracks to widen and even shatter your whole windshield. Cold water doesn’t work either, as it will just freeze over again. To avoid windshield repair, only use windshield washer fluid that is approved for de-icing.

• Metal Tools: Never use anything beyond a plastic scraper to remove ice from your windshield. Metallic tools, in particular, can scratch your glass. If you can’t use your normal scraper, crank up the defroster and wait, or use a liquid de-icer. 

• Windshield Wipers: Your wipers are not a substitute for a scraper. They are unable to scrape away ice and will likely spread dirt around and cause damage. It will wear down your wipers, too. Only use them once your windshield has been defrosted.

• Hairdryers: Similarly to why you shouldn’t use boiling water, hairdryers are dangerous because they could heat up your windshield too quickly and cause cracking or shattering. Additionally, you would likely need a long extension cord to run it down your driveway, and you could risk soaking the connection.

To keep your windshield ice-free and avoid windshield repairs this winter, always use your in-car defroster and a plastic scraper. If you do require car window repair this winter, call GlassPro, Inc. at (513) 874-6559. You can also visit the Cincinnati mobile glass repair service online for more information.