We’ve all been there, standing over the engine of our car, tilting a bottle of washer fluid, only to watch half of it miss the reservoir and splash onto the car. It’s one of those small but frustrating tasks that should be easier. But what if the solution was as simple as turning the bottle sideways? Turns out, it is.
Ken Long shares a simple trick on TikTok that will make tasks like refilling your car fluids much less messy.
Why Turning the Bottle Sideways Works
Most washer fluid bottles are designed like traditional plastic jugs, with a small opening at the top. When you pour straight down, air tries to rush into the bottle to replace the exiting fluid, creating those annoying glugging splashes. But when you turn the bottle sideways, the liquid flows out more smoothly because air can enter at the same rate. This eliminates the choppy, uneven pour, giving you better control and reducing waste.
@ken.c.long Tip for filling washer fluid in you car or truck 🏎️🛻 #car #truck #tips #lifehack ♬ original sound – Ken Long | Home DIY Expert
The Science Behind the Trick
This works due to simple fluid dynamics. When a bottle is tilted directly downward, the narrow opening causes an airlock, forcing the liquid out in messy bursts. By pouring sideways, you create a more controlled stream, similar to how professional bartenders pour drinks smoothly without foam spilling over the edge of a glass.
Real-World Impact: Cleaner Cars, Less Waste
Spilling washer fluid isn’t just annoying; it’s also wasteful. Over time, those spills add up, meaning more frequent refills and unnecessary spending. Plus, some washer fluids contain chemicals that aren’t great for the environment, so minimizing waste is a small step toward more responsible car maintenance.
Small Changes, Big Difference
It’s amazing how something as simple as changing the way we hold a bottle can make a task easier and more efficient. This small hack saves time, keeps your car clean, and helps you use every drop of washer fluid effectively. The best part? It works for other liquids, too—whether you’re pouring oil, coolant, or even juice in your kitchen.
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