Car Snow Brush and Ice Scraper: How to Choose the Right One

This guide is for drivers getting ready for their first snowfall who want a brush and scraper that fit their vehicle.

A good snow brush and ice scraper lets you clear the glass and the roof without overreaching or scratching anything. Your vehicle’s height and where you park matter more than a long list of features.

The quick answer

NHTSA lists a snow shovel, a broom and an ice scraper among the things to keep in your car for winter.¹ A combination snow brush and scraper covers the broom and the scraper in one tool. Compare usable reach, the scraper blade, the grip and how long the tool is when stored.

Snow brush vs. ice scraper

A compact sedan and a tall SUV don’t need the same length.

Measure the reach you need

1. Stand beside your car and check whether you can reach the middle of the windshield without leaning on the car.
2. Estimate the reach you need for the roof and rear window.
3. Compare the tool’s extended length and its collapsed length for storage.
4. Check that the grip works with winter gloves on.
5. Read your owner’s manual for any warnings about tools on glass or coatings.

Clear your car in the right order

Our advice: brush loose snow off the roof first so it doesn’t slide onto the windshield or blow onto other drivers, then the hood, lights, mirrors and windows. Turn on the defroster. AAA recommends setting the heater to defrost and filling the washer reservoir with winter fluid.² Scrape ice only after the loose snow is gone, and never use hot water or improvised hard tools on the glass.

NHTSA also says to clear any snow from your exhaust pipe before you start the car.¹

Don’t skip the washer fluid and wipers

NHTSA recommends a high-quality winter washer fluid with de-icer and testing your defrosters and windshield wipers before the season starts.¹ A new scraper won’t make up for frozen washer lines, worn blades or a defroster that doesn’t work.

Keep more than a scraper in the car

NHTSA’s winter list also includes jumper cables, a flashlight, warning devices such as flares or emergency markers, blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a cell phone with a car charger.¹ When roads are dangerous, putting off a trip helps more than any accessory.

Before you order

• Match the tool’s reach to your vehicle’s height.
• Check the stored length against your trunk or door pocket.
• Look for a sturdy scraper blade and secure joints.
• Make sure the grip works with gloves.
• Top up winter washer fluid and test the defroster.