Putting a laundry soap packet in your windshield washer reservoir — even with hot water — is a bad idea for several reasons:
1. Formulation mismatch
Laundry detergent is designed for fabrics, not automotive glass. It can:
Leave a film or streaks on the windshield
Reduce visibility, especially at night or in rain
Damage the paint if it splashes
2. Foaming and clogging
Laundry soap foams excessively and may:
Clog washer jets or the pump
Gunk up the reservoir over time
Lead to costly repairs
3. Chemical incompatibility
The chemicals in laundry pods can:
Corrode rubber seals and plastic components
React badly with any residual washer fluid
4. Freezing risk
Even with hot water, once it cools, the solution won’t have the antifreeze properties of proper washer fluid, so:
It can freeze in cold weather
It might crack the reservoir or lines
Safer alternative:
If you’re in a pinch, a DIY washer fluid recipe (for warm weather only) might include:
1 part white vinegar
3 parts water
Optional: a drop or two of mild dish soap (non-foaming)
But the best move? Use proper windshield washer fluid — it’s cheap, effective, and safe for your vehicle.
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