Drivers are being urged to put tea bags in their car to avoid £2,500 fine

Motorists across the UK are being urged to put teabags in their car to avoid being fined up to £2,500 and an increased risk of accidents during the colder months

A motoring expert has revealed that a simple kitchen staple could be the key to slashing the chances of accidents and avoiding hefty fines of up to £2,500. Despite the onset of spring bringing longer days and a hint of warmth in the air, Brits setting off at dawn are still greeted with the cold reality of frosty mornings, leaving many motorists tapping their fingers whilst their windscreens clear from mist.

But here's a clever tip – Ben Pitcher, a motoring expert from DPF Experts, points out that drivers need not twiddle their thumbs waiting. His suggestion? Chuck some teabags in your vehicle. Mr Pitcher advises: "Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months."

He adds: "Though they aren't as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they're a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness."

It might raise eyebrows initially, but it turns out that both green and black teas have a knack for soaking up unwanted damp – the very culprit behind misty windows when there's a conflict between inner car temps and the outside world.

By tactically placing tea sachets or little dishes of loose leaves here and there inside the car – think dashboards or door pockets – drivers can majorly cut down the odds of foggy windscreens.

Moreover, this tea-based trick might not only sharpen up visibility but also freshen up the car's aroma, as these teas are believed to suck up nasty niffs and swap them for the calming scent of freshly steeped brews.

Alternatively, Ben proposed that drivers can achieve similar results by placing small packets of silica gel inside the car. These are often found packed with items like electronics and can be used to clear the screen before early morning journeys.

He elaborated: "Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture. Gather a few and position them around your car to help manage condensation.

"While they won't instantly clear foggy windows, they can aid in reducing moisture and maintaining your windscreen clearer for longer."

Regardless of the method a driver employs, it's crucial that they ensure their vehicle's windows are entirely free from any form of condensation prior to setting off, reports the Express.

As per Rule 229 of the Highway Code, drivers must guarantee good visibility at all times by removing any obstructions that could lead to larger blind spots.

Motorists caught driving a vehicle with misted-up windows not only face a significantly higher risk of causing an accident with other road users they failed to spot, but they may also be slapped with a fine ranging from £100 to £2,500.