How One Simple Hack Can Clear Your Car Windows

Ever slipped into your car on a damp morning, coffee in hand, only to find the windows so fogged you feel like you’re inside a fishbowl? The heater blasts, you swipe the windshield, and somehow a musty smell sneaks in—even if you don’t own a dog. That’s car humidity at work, and it can make mornings miserable.

The good news? You don’t need an expensive spray. You just need salt. Yes, plain table salt. A bowl of it quietly sitting in your car can make a big difference.

Why Salt Works

It sounds almost too simple, but salt is hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture from the air. Think of it as a sponge you never have to wring out. Place a bowl of salt in your car, and it will steadily pull out the humidity responsible for foggy windows and damp seats.

The best part? It’s cheap and easy. No fancy gadgets, no special instructions. Just pour salt into a cup, set it in your car, and let it work its quiet magic. Mechanics and car enthusiasts recommend it because it’s effective and grounded in physics.

Don’t Worry About Smells

Concerned your car will smell like the ocean? Don’t be. Salt doesn’t deodorize—it removes moisture that bacteria and mold need to survive. Less dampness means fewer foggy windows and a noticeable reduction in musty odors. Unlike air fresheners or hanging cardboard trees, salt prevents the problem rather than just masking it.

Backup Hacks

If salt still feels odd, there are alternatives. Old newspapers work well—just crumple a few sheets and place them on the floorboards or under the seats. They absorb moisture effectively.

Silica gel packets, like those found in shoeboxes or electronics packaging, are another option. They pull humidity out of the air and help keep your car dry. Salt, paper, or silica—all achieve the same goal: banishing excess moisture.

Why It Matters

Car humidity isn’t just annoying. Persistent moisture can lead to mold in upholstery, rust in corners, or even electrical problems. A simple bowl of salt is a low-tech solution, but it protects your car in ways many high-tech fixes can’t.

Clearer Mornings Ahead

Next time you unload groceries, grab a cup of table salt for your car. No instructions, no waiting weeks. Just place it in your vehicle and forget about it. You’ll notice clearer windows, dry seats, and fresher air—all thanks to something you already have in your pantry.

Simple, inexpensive, and surprisingly effective—salt might just become your car’s new best friend.