Create your own eco‑friendly windscreen washer fluid

We all know that irritating moment when the windscreen washer fluid runs out at the least expected time. Fortunately, preparing your own mixture at home is easier than it seems. In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to do it.

Homemade windscreen washer fluid is an economical and ecological solution. The cost of purchasing the ingredients is significantly lower than that of ready-made products available in stores — winter fluid can cost up to £8 for 5 litres. Additionally, by making the fluid at home, you avoid the harmful chemicals in commercial fluids and reduce plastic waste by reusing containers.

To create homemade windscreen washer fluid, you only need a few easily accessible ingredients. The first one is demineralised water, which is free from impurities, meaning it won’t leave streaks on windows.

The next ingredient is dish soap, which provides the necessary cleaning properties. You will also need vinegar, which acts as a preservative and prevents mould formation. Lastly, an important element is isopropyl alcohol, which ensures the fluid doesn’t freeze even in low temperatures.

Before you start mixing, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. You will require 3.5 litres of demineralised water, 1 tablespoon of dish soap, 100 millilitres of vinegar, and 250 millilitres of isopropyl alcohol. Demineralised water can also be substituted with filtered water.

First, pour the water into a large container as a base. Then, add the dish soap and vinegar and mix thoroughly. Finally, add the isopropyl alcohol quickly to prevent it from evaporating. The resulting mixture is now ready for use.

Methylated spirits are a popular substitute for isopropyl alcohol. They can replace isopropyl alcohol while maintaining the same proportions, prevent the fluid from freezing, and provide similar degreasing and cleaning properties.

Glycerine is an additional ingredient you can add to homemade windscreen washer fluid. Adding one tablespoon of glycerine to the mixture will make the windows less susceptible to dirt by forming a protective layer on their surface. Alternatively, you can use fabric softener, which contains glycerine.

Use the mixture with care. Isopropyl alcohol is flammable, and vinegar, although safe, can irritate the skin and eyes. Use protective gloves when mixing ingredients.

To maintain your windows in perfect condition, regularly clean your car's windscreen wipers. Use homemade windscreen washer fluid in the right proportions and store it in a safe, airtight container.