When we think about the dangers of driving, we of course think of road accidents. But there is actually a hidden danger within every vehicle that we tend not to think about. 

Germs.

Just getting your commute started requires touching the door handle, keys or start button, seatbelt and fastener, gear shifter, and steering wheel. That’s five germ-infested surfaces before we’ve even left the driveway. 

Below are some car sanitation tips you can practice to keep any dangers limited to the outside of your vehicle.

How to Sanitize Your Car

Where to Clean 

While nearly everywhere inside your car can host germs, there are some high-touch surfaces to pay special attention to. These include:

  • Door handles
  • Cup holders
  • Steering wheel
  • Shifting knob
  • Seatbelt and fasteners
  • Turn signal and wiper blade knobs
  • Radio dials (found by one study to be the single dirtiest spot in a car)
  • GPS, air conditioning, and other dashboard dials
  • Armrests 
  • Power window controls

Don’t neglect seats, car seats, and floors either. Particles of dirt and food can be a breeding ground for bacteria. 

How to Clean

Disinfectant wipes are an easy way to clean off hard surfaces in your car. Keep a pack in your glove compartment and periodically wipe down your high-touch surfaces, especially after you have passengers. You can also use a spray bottle full of some mild soap and water or isopropyl alcohol. Avoid ammonia-based products and bleach. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe the surfaces clean. 

For seats and floors, keep a handheld vacuum in your trunk and get into the habit of regularly vacuuming cloth surfaces that can’t easily be wiped down. 

Remember that germs, bacteria, and viruses can also be airborne. Each time you change your oil, check the air filter inside your cabin that filters the air you breathe while driving and change it out as needed. Check out our service specials to see about a cabin air filter replacement. It’s also a good idea to periodically roll down your windows while you drive to let the inside of the car air out. 

Get a Professional Cleaning in Madison, WI

While the actions above can reduce the risk of unwanted germs, it’s no substitute for a professional cleaning. Contact our service department to see how Zimbrick Hyundai Eastside can keep your car running smooth, safe, and healthy for all aboard.