You will have no difficulty in finding where the windshield wiper fluid section is when you pass by bottles and bottles of bright blue liquid.
Some of you may be wondering what the ingredients of this bright substance are. As you fill up your windshield washer tank (and smell the strong odor), natural concerns about the safety of your loved ones and pets arise.
A majority of windshield washer fluid is constituted of methanol. It is an alcohol, and it is toxic. However, the reason it is still used is that it is probably the only thing that can break down dirt particles and bug splats on your windshield glass.
Sometimes, there are variations in the mixture due to concerns about methanol’s toxicity. These variations include ethylene glycol and ethanol, which is also an alcohol.
In powdered form, blue dye is used to make the windshield washer a deep bright blue.
Made up of methylated spirits, anti-freeze is included in a variety of windshield wiper fluid products such that the temperature at which it will freeze will be much much lower.
There are many people who do not agree with the usage of alcohol products in caring and cleaning for their cars. Either they are concerned with the environmental damage the blue liquid threatens to cause, or they are very worried about the lifespan of their car’s exterior paint in relation to the amount of alcohol that touches the car.
You will have to decide what is more important to you when buying regular versus eco-friendly windshield wiper fluid products. While the “green” products are biodegradable and non-toxic, they may not be as strong in breaking up the bug splats and dirt as regular toxic products can.
Also, you may be thinking the frugal route altogether and consider making your own windshield wash solution with items you can find at home. Items like dishwasher liquid and windex are household products that some people like to mix together and save money over time by using.
I have also seen suggestions on mixing rubbing alcohol with ammonia.
Ammonia is a commonly used house-hold ingredient for windshield wiper fluid because it does not leave a streaking residue on the glass. It does not freeze or leave detergents on the window as long as you choose a non-sudsing type.
For free tips on different windshield wiper fluid, come take a look at Ryland Jing’s blog on car windshield fluid.
