This ready-to-use glass cleaner is formulated to clean the interior and exterior of your car windows and windscreen, as well as your wing and rear-view mirrors, to improve visibility and keep you safer on the road. This spray contains cleaning and degreasing agents to quickly and effectively clear glass surfaces with just a small amount of product, leaving them streak-free and glare-free.
Hypoallergenic formula
De-icer
An icy windscreen significantly reduces visibility, posing a safety risk. The ability to see clearly through the windscreen is essential for safe and efficient driving. Ice and fog on the windscreen can occur without warning, making the use of a de-icer an essential part of winter car accessories. Our spray, applied directly to the windscreen, quickly melts the ice.
The advantages of Spray over other solutions
The effectiveness of windshield de-icers is highly dependent on their composition and mechanism of action. Non-chemical de-icers, such as mechanical scrapers or windscreen covers, offer solutions for removing ice without using chemicals. However, these methods have specific constraints.
Dependence on climatic conditions
Non-chemical de-icers often demonstrate variable performance under different weather conditions. For example, temperature and humidity can affect the grip of ice or snow on the windscreen, sometimes making mechanical tools less effective. High wind conditions can also limit the effectiveness of windscreen covers by making them more difficult to fit or maintain.
Impact on surfaces
The use of scrapers can exert pressure on the windshield glass, which can be scratched or damaged if the tool is not used with care. Windshield covers must be handled with care to avoid damaging the seals or painted parts of the car when installing or removing them.
Limitations on speed and comfort
Non-chemical options can also be more demanding in terms of time and effort. Scrapers require direct physical action and can be laborious, particularly in the cold, while blankets require prior preparation and can be cumbersome to store when not in use. This makes the defrosting process less spontaneous and potentially more inconvenient than using a fast-defrosting spray.
Advantages of spray over other solutions
De-icing sprays, on the other hand, offer a quick and easy solution. The spray works almost immediately after application, dissolving the gel without the need to rub or scrape, thus preserving the surface of the windscreen. What’s more, their formulation prevents ice formation for some time, which can lead to a less frequent and more convenient defrosting experience.
Maximising the durability of a windscreen de-icer
The durability of a windshield de-icer depends on factors such as chemical composition, packaging and storage conditions. A typical product can have an effective life of 2 to 5 years as long as it is stored correctly. Manufacturers usually indicate the expiration date on the packaging.
Storage instructions to optimise longevity
Storage instructions play a vital role in the preservation of a windshield de-icer. Recommendations include:
- Store the product in a cool, dry place to avoid accelerated chemical degradation caused by heat and humidity.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, which may cause the product to lose its effectiveness.
- Ensure that the product lid or cap is tightly closed to prevent volatile components from evaporating.
- Keep the product away from extreme temperatures, particularly below 30°C where the product could freeze, and above 30°C where certain components could decompose or the container could be compromised.
Compliance with safety measures for the use of de-icers
Although L’Arbre Vert Automobile products are not dangerous, there are a few safety precautions you should follow.
Safety instructions
Before using a windshield de-icer, read the instructions carefully. In the event of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water and seek medical advice if irritation persists. Never ingest the product and keep out of reach of children and pets. Ensure good ventilation during application to avoid inhalation of fumes.
Toxicity and first aid
De-icers can be toxic if swallowed. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting and consult a poison control centre or doctor immediately. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with water for several minutes and seek medical advice. Having the number of your local poison control center at hand could be a lifesaver in an emergency.
Frequently asked questions about windscreen de-icers
The use of windshield de-icers frequently raises questions among motorists. Here are some factual answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Can you make your own de-icer and is it just as effective?
Homemade mixtures, such as vinegar and water, can reduce ice build-up, but are far less effective than our de-icing spray, which is optimized to aid the de-icing process.
Do de-icers work in very cold weather?
Some de-icers guarantee efficiency down to -30°C. However, performance may vary according to the formula chosen and outdoor conditions.
How much de-icer should I use?
The quantity varies according to the size of the windshield and the thickness of the glass. Precise instructions are usually provided on the product packaging and must be followed to guarantee efficiency without waste.
Is windscreen de-icer eco-friendly?
Some products contain compounds that are harmful to the environment. More responsible alternatives based on plant-derived or natural ingredients are available on the market. Check the product label and data sheet for information on its environmental impact.
How long does de-icer take?
Most de-icers work in just a few minutes. The exact duration depends on the ambient temperature and the thickness of the ice. In the vast majority of cases, the reaction time varies between 1 and 5 minutes.