Drivers urged to rub a potato in car ahead of winter

Drivers have been told to “rub a potato” over their car windscreen this Autumn ahead of the cold Winter freeze. Experts have suggested the kitchen staple can “make a big difference” and may drastically improve visibility.

As the nights turn colder, condensation and steamed-up windscreens can become a major issue affecting motorists' vision of the road ahead. Meanwhile, frozen windscreens, ice and heavy rain can all have a major impact on vehicles heading into the last few months of 2025. Bizarrely, potatoes have been recommended as a tool to help, as the starch inside them contains a "protective film” that has a vital hydrophobic effect.

For better results, according to MotorMatch, road users should cut a potato in half and rub the exposed side over the outside of the windscreen. As starch acts as a protective barrier, road users should rub the potato over their vehicle the night before a big freeze or downpour.

This gives the starch time to form its shield on the windscreen, with road users likely to notice less frost and ice build up the next day. Drivers can then wash away any potato residue using the wipers the next morning.

MotorMatch said the simple DIY hack offers a natural alternative to chemical treatments. Meanwhile, they explain that the concept is cost-effective and environmentally friendly in another boost for road users.

Potatoes are also inexpensive, with road users able to pick up a whole packet in most major supermarkets for around £1.

MotorMatch explained: “It might sound unusual, but rubbing the cut side of a potato onto your windscreen can make a big difference. The starch forms a protective film that stops moisture from sticking to the surface, so frost won’t settle as easily overnight, and condensation will be less likely to form during rainy or humid weather.

“The starch creates a hydrophobic effect, meaning water droplets won’t cling to the glass. This can improve visibility during heavy rainfall, as the water runs off the windscreen in a smooth sheet rather than scattering into distracting droplets.”

However, the AA has previously encouraged road users not to fall for simple "online hacks”.

They said: “Another hack suggests rubbing half a potato onto the inside of your windows to stop them steaming up. We wouldn't recommend rubbing anything onto your windows that could smear them and impair your ability to see the road clearly.”