Winter Wiper Blades: What to Look For and How to Use Them
Quick answer: For snow and ice, choose blades that do not collect ice in an open frame: beam blades and winter blades with a rubber boot over the frame. Fit the right size for your model year, run the defroster before using the wipers, and never pull frozen blades off the glass.
Winter is hard on wiper blades. Ice packs into open metal frames, salt and grit wear the rubber, and blades frozen to the glass tear when the wipers are switched on. The right blade type and a few habits make a big difference to visibility.
What makes a good winter wiper blade
- No open frame for ice to pack into. Beam blades have no frame, and winter blades wrap the frame in a rubber boot.
- Even pressure along the blade so it stays in contact on a curved windshield.
- Rubber that stays flexible in the cold.
- The correct length for each side of your car.
Beam vs frame blades in snow
| Beam blade | Conventional frame blade | |
|---|---|---|
| Ice build-up | Little to collect on | Ice can pack into the frame |
| Pressure on the glass | Spread evenly by a spring-steel band | Through several pressure points |
| Profile | Low | Taller |
Get the right size
Winter or not, the blade length must match your car. Look up your make, model and year in our wiper size finder, or read what size wiper blades do I need.
Winter wiper tips
- Run the defroster and clear ice with a scraper before using the wipers.
- Free blades frozen to the glass with the defroster, not by pulling them.
- Use a winter washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
- Clear snow off the hood and cowl so the wipers have room to park.
- Turn the wipers off before switching the engine off, so they do not try to start under snow next time.
- Wipe the rubber edges clean of salt and grit.
When to replace blades in winter
- Streaks or smears that do not clean off.
- Chattering or skipping.
- Torn or split rubber after ice.
- Frames bent by ice or snow loads.
Many drivers fit new blades before winter starts. For how to swap them, read how to change windshield wipers.
Should you lift wipers before snow?
Some drivers lift the wiper arms off the glass before snow so they do not freeze to it. Others prefer not to, because strong wind can blow the arm back onto the glass. Your owner’s manual may give advice for your car, and some cars have a service position for the wipers.
About this guide
This guide gives general winter advice. Blade sizes come from the part numbers on our wiper listings; check each product page for the blade details.
Related guides
- Wiper size finder
- How to change windshield wipers
- How long do wiper blades last?
- Colored windshield wipers
Questions
Are winter wiper blades worth it?
In places with regular snow and ice, blades that resist ice build-up keep the windshield clearer and last longer than open-frame blades.
Can I use winter blades all year?
Many drivers swap back in spring, as some winter blades are heavier. Beam blades are commonly used all year.
Do beam blades work in snow?
Yes. With no open frame, there is little for ice to pack into, which is why they are popular for winter.
Should I use special washer fluid in winter?
Yes. Use a washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures so it does not freeze in the lines or on the glass.
Why do my wipers streak in winter?
Ice on the glass or blade, salt film, or rubber that has hardened or torn. Clean the glass and blades, and replace them if streaks remain.
