How Mainers Use Vodka To Prevent Ice On Windshields

We all know that winter in Maine is no joke, it’s harsh and unpredictable and comes back every year, no matter what. I mean, unless you move down south, but us rugged Mainers are used to batten down the hatches and dealing with it.

Between the ice and snow and those freezing cold temperatures, it’s survival season, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a little creative.

Getting Creative to Survive Maine Winters

For example, a lot of us enjoy a little night cap, if you will. Maybe a splash of vodka with dinner? And because of that, many of us already have vodka sitting in the liquor cabinet, usually reserved for social occasions only. But in true Maine fashion, someone figured out it doesn’t have to stop there.

That same vodka can actually pull double duty in the winter. When mixed with a little water and sprayed on your windshield the night before, it can help prevent ice from forming overnight.

The alcohol lowers the freezing point, which means less scraping, less swearing, and a slightly calmer morning before work. It’s one of those “only in winter” hacks that sounds ridiculous until you try it and then suddenly you’re looking at your liquor cabinet like it’s a winter survival kit.

Some of these hacks come from Fox Weather, while others are classic Maine tips passed along by friends who’ve learned the hard way.

Here are 10 DIY hacks that we've come across that will definitely make these harsh Maine winters a little more manageable and maybe even fun:

Vodka on your windshield: Spray a mix of vodka and water the night before to keep ice from forming. It’s cheap and effective.
Old credit card ice scraper: If you forgot your scraper, no worries, use your credit card and in a pinch that stiff card can help you chip away at frost.
DIY hand warmers with driveway salt in a sandwich bag, then add a bit of water and you get heat from the chemical reaction.
Pickle juice mixture (two parts juice to one part water) on your windshield the night before can help prevent frost from forming, thanks to the salt.
DIY fire starters: Dryer lint, egg cartons and wax makes instant fires for cozy cabin vibes.
Vinegar on your windshield: A little inside the glass keeps fog away while driving.
Snow brush hack: Attach a rag to a broom for a budget-friendly way to clear deep snow.
Hot water + salt for frozen locks: Carefully thaw car or house locks when Jack Frost strikes.
Winter paw protection for pets: Coconut oil with a bit of beeswax keeps dog paws safe from ice and salt. Who knew!
Draft stoppers: Fill old socks with rice and place under doors to keep cold air out.

So, even though our winters are cold and harsh, with these few DIY tricks, you can keep your home, car, and even your pets safer and happier this time of year!