Best Ice Scrapers: Snow and Ice Windshield Removal Solutions

Top snow and ice removers to reclaim your windshield from the cold

Best Overall

AstroAI 27-inch Brush/Ice Scraper

Best Value

Mallory 26-inch Brush/Ice Scraper

Honorable Mention

AstroAI 47-inch 3-in-1 Extendable Ice Scraper

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We all love a winter wonderland with treetops glistening with snow and ice — or at least we enjoy looking at it from a warm fireside with a hot drink. Winter weather, however, can be brutal. Safe winter traveling starts with visibility, and having an ice scraper in your vehicle is just the tool for the job. As de-icing the windows can take some time if you’re relying solely on the defroster, an ice scraper can get you on the road in a safe and timely manner. Take a look at our favorite ice scrapers and what you need to know if you’re looking for a new one.

Summary List

How We Selected The Best Ice Scrapers 

We carefully selected the ice scrapers on this list based on their performance and price as well as the brand’s history of reliability. We considered the overall length, construction, durability, and ease of use. Combination scrapers had to be easy to use with vehicles of various sizes. We avoided expensive products and focused on those that are affordable for the average car owner. To ensure a quality comparison, we avoided product bundles. We also skipped heated ice scrapers, because heating glass too quickly can cause it to crack or chip. 

Our product selections, rankings, and awards for this story are based on research. While we haven’t conducted real-world testing on all of these products yet, we’ve looked at consumer testimonials and data, tutorials, and general discussions on social media and in forums. We also consider price and specification in the context of the segment. And, of course, we rely on our institutional knowledge of the automotive landscape to weed out weak products.

Best Ice Scrapers: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall

AstroAI 27-inch Brush/Ice Scraper

Best Value

Mallory 26-inch Brush/Ice Scraper

Premium Pick

AstroAI 47-inch 3-in-1 Extendable Ice Scraper

The Minimalist’s Choice

Snow Joe Ice Scraper

Honorable Mention

Traderplus Ice Scraper with Waterproof Mitten

Squeegee Pick

Twing Extendable Snow Remover

What To Consider When Looking for the Best Ice Scrapers

Selecting the right ice scraper is a task that is unique to each car owner. You want the right combination of form and function to fit your individual and vehicular needs. Below you’ll find some tips and tricks to help you select the right ice scraper. 

  • Weather: The first thing to consider when selecting an ice scraper is the weather where you live. If you live in St. Petersburg, Florida, the chances are slim that you’ll need one. However, if you live in Minot, North Dakota, you’ll find yourself scraping ice off your car or truck most days during the winter. 
  • Vehicle Size/Reach: This takes into account the size of your vehicle as well as how far your arms can reach. Large or lifted trucks and SUVs will be difficult to scrape and brush if you use a one-foot scraper. However, if you drive a Prius or Civic, you might be fine with a shorter scraper. 
  • Brush/Squeegee: These are a couple of great features that you may want to consider. A brush is excellent for getting snow off your car, and the squeegee helps clean the windows when you’re done. While not essential, those cold morning car cleanups can be a lot more tolerable if you have a product with these features. 

FAQs

Q: What are the little teeth on the backside of the ice scraper for? 

The teeth are designed for chipping and cutting through thick ice on windshields and windows.  

Q: Are ice scrapers bad for windows? 

When used correctly, ice scrapers aren’t bad for window. Whether you choose a scraper that’s plastic or metal, if you utilize the tool properly, it won’t damage your windows. 

Q: Do I have to brush the snow off my vehicle before driving? 

Yes. It’s illegal to drive a vehicle with impaired visibility, so don’t leave snow on your car. The wind can also blow powdery snow off the vehicle’s surface, creating a blinding effect for drivers behind you. Also, as your car heats up, the snow touching the surface of your car will melt and allow large chunks to slip off, catching drivers behind you by surprise. 

Q: What is a squeegee? 

A squeegee is a piece of rubber or leather attached to a handle that is used for pushing or pulling liquids out of the way.

 

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