Spring is finally here, and thanks to the milder temperatures and longer days, now is a great time to do a bit of spring cleaning to get your car looking and feeling fresh again.
We’ve put together a two-part guide to help get your car looking shipshape. This week, the interior.
Remove any unwanted moisture
There’s a high chance that some moisture has entered your car over the winter months, especially if you park your vehicle outdoors.
Portable moisture absorbers such as Damp Rid are great; pop one in the car for a few days and you’ll be amazed at how much moisture is removed. Or wait for a sunny day and crack open a window or door and let the sun do its work.
Surfaces and upholstery
Give your surfaces a clean with some automotive “wet wipes” to get rid of dust and grime that may have accumulated, paying particular attention to your cup holders and the surrounding area. Avoid silicone-based cleaners under the windscreen, as it may cause the surface to reflect the sun. If you’re using a spray, be careful not to smear the inside of the glass.
Those with children will understand how toys and crumbs can quickly transform the interior of a car into a mess. Keep a handheld vacuum in your garage.
If your dog is a frequent passenger in your vehicle, consider buying a large pet hammock/seat cover. These connect to the headrests between two rows of seating and help keep pet hair contained. When not using — simply remove, shake and store.
Clear your clutter
Often the biggest source of clutter in vehicles can come from items that are only needed temporarily. We’re talking sports equipment, camping gear, and the odd road trip supply.
A good idea is to keep these items in convenient containers and store in accessible areas of your home or garage. The easier they are to load and unload, the more inclined you will be to only bring them along when needed. Over time, savings in fuel will add up — less weight equals lower fuel consumption.
Now take a look around your car; do you notice any empty drink bottles or coffee cups lying around? The average Auckland motorist can spend up to 20 days each year in their car stuck in traffic alone — that’s not even including driving time. With all of those extra hours in your vehicle, they can quickly become cluttered with rubbish, newspapers, clothing and who knows what else.
Clutter not only diminishes the appeal of a car, but can also create safety hazards and projectiles in the event of an emergency.
For safety purposes, ensure the driver’s area is a clutter-free zone. Nothing should ever be able to fall near the driver’s feet and impede the use of the pedals. If you have mats that are not secure they could get tangled up near the pedals.
Clutter in a vehicle can affect your ability to focus. Keeping the car organised not only looks and feels good, but it can increase mental concentration on the road and reduce stress.
So, keep your vehicle well organised to create a pleasant and safe driving experience that both you and your passengers can enjoy.
● Next time we look at cleaning the exterior of your car