Car care experts are advising drivers to be careful when using certain household cleaning products to clean their cars. Whilst some can be useful, using the wrong product can cause significant damage to your vehicle.
Here, Car Care Expert Katie Newman, from Carfume, reveals the household item drivers should never use when cleaning their car and shares three cleaning hacks!
Avoid window cleaner!
Even though household window cleaner is an excellent solution for achieving sparkling mirrors and windows indoors, it is best avoided for cleaning cars. This is because certain window cleaning products contain ammonia, which can potentially damage tinted windows, cause streaking, and even damage interior surfaces over time.
Instead, use glass cleaning products specifically for cars. These products are ammonia-free, making them safe for use on tinted windows and interiors, and are designed to provide a perfect streak-free finish.
Baking soda to eliminate odours
For persistent car odours, using baking soda as a natural absorber can help eliminate unwanted smells and moisture. Simply, place an open container of baking soda under the car seats or sprinkle it directly onto the carpets and mats. Allow it to sit for a minimum of three hours, or ideally overnight, and then remove the container or hoover up the sprinkled powder.
Use soft brushes for tighter spaces
Air vents, seams, and cup holders can trap dust and crumbs and can be difficult to clean. However, using a soft bristled brush, a clean makeup brush or soft toothbrush can work perfectly to loosen any dirt before you hoover.
The 60 second reset
Car clutter, such as umbrellas, coats, gym clothes, and shopping bags, can quickly build up, affecting comfort and contributing to persistent odours. Implement a '60-second reset', by taking out personal items and putting rubbish in the bin, as a standard practice every time you leave the car. This simple habit is key to preventing unpleasant smells. Additionally, using an air freshener will help maintain a fresher environment for longer.