Nationwide Vehicle Contracts explains some of the dirtiest areas in your car and provide you with some useful car cleaning tips to keep your vehicle sparkling clean.
As we all reflect on our personal hygiene, you'll be shocked at how dirty your car is! Fears over personal hygiene have made many of us reflect on our personal hygiene. However, your car may be causing you to get sick as research suggests your car's steering wheel can be up to 4 times dirtier than a public toilet seat.
When it comes to keeping our surroundings clean, we often forget about one important aspect of our lives…our cars. We spend hours driving in them, eating on the go, and even occasionally using them as makeshift storage spaces. But have you ever wondered just how dirty your car really is? In this blog post, we'll explore the dirtiest areas in your car and provide you with some useful car cleaning tips to keep your vehicle sparkling clean.
The Dirtiest Areas in Your Car
- Steering Wheel: Your steering wheel comes in contact with your hands every time you drive. Hands can carry dirt, oils, and bacteria, making the steering wheel one of the dirtiest areas in your car. Regularly wiping it down with a disinfectant wipe can help keep it clean and hygienic.
- Cup Holders: Coffee spills, leftover crumbs, and sticky residue from beverage containers accumulate in cup holders over time. To clean them, remove the removable parts and wash them with warm soapy water. For stubborn stains, use a toothbrush or cotton swab to scrub the area.
- Floor Mats: Our shoes pick up dirt, mud, and debris from the outside world, which eventually ends up on our car floor mats. Remove the floor mats regularly and shake them out to remove loose dirt. Vacuum them thoroughly and consider using a carpet cleaner to remove stains.
- Air Vents: The air vents in your car can accumulate dust, pollen, and other allergens. To clean them, use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove the debris. You can also use compressed air to blow away the dust.
- Seatbelts: Over time, seatbelts can become dirty and even develop odours. Spot-clean any stains with a fabric cleaner and wipe down the entire length of the belt with a damp cloth. Allow them to air dry thoroughly before use.
It's quite alarming how bad our car hygiene can be; however, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts looks to reassure drivers.
David Johnson, a Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, one of the UK's largest providers of car and van leasing, says: "The best advice we can offer drivers is to keep on top of things. Leaving your vehicle to get out of control will make it harder to clean your vehicle in the long run. Leaving your car in dark and damp conditions can see severe bacteria and mould growth, which can be potentially damaging to your health."
Car Cleaning Tips
- Regular Vacuuming: Vacuuming your car's interior at least once a week will help remove loose dirt, crumbs, and debris. Pay attention to the seats, floor mats, and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate.
- Use Microfiber Cloths: Microfiber cloths are highly effective in capturing dirt and dust without scratching surfaces. Use them for wiping down surfaces like the dashboard, console, and windows.
- Choose the Right Cleaning Products: Invest in car cleaning products specifically designed for different surfaces. For example, use a leather cleaner for leather seats, glass cleaner for windows, and upholstery cleaner for fabric seats.
- Don't Forget the Exterior: Regularly washing and waxing your car's exterior will not only make it look great but also protect the paint from environmental damage. Use a car wash soap and follow up with a good-quality wax for a shiny finish.
- Organize and Declutter: Keep your car clutter-free by assigning a designated place for everything. Use organizers or storage compartments to keep items like tissues, sunglasses, and charging cables in order.
Conclusion
Your car is more than just a mode of transportation; it's an extension of your lifestyle. By understanding the dirtiest areas in your car and following the car cleaning tips provided, you can ensure a clean and hygienic driving experience. Regular maintenance and cleaning not only contribute to the longevity of your vehicle but also promote a healthier and more enjoyable driving environment. So, roll up your sleeves and give your car the attention it deserves!
For more information, explore our blog section, where we share informative weekly blogs on various topics. You may also find our blog on A Beginner's Guide to Car Maintenance: How to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly useful.
At Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, we are one of the UK's leading car leasing brokers and provide a range of leasing deals tailored to meet individual needs. For more information, feel free to refer to our extensive car leasing guides or contact our experts on 0345 811 9595.
