General Motors’ top tips for cleaning your car’s interior

Okay, so say lock down’s over and you’re going to pick up a friend or relative from the airport or from work.

They’re trying to get into the front passenger seat, but they can’t seem to maneuver around the huge pile of empty coffee cups that have stacked up over time.

And it’s not just about mind over clutter. We’re living in a time where germs and infection control are paramount. And that goes for your car too. Here’s General Motors’ top tips for cleaning your car’s interior.

Did you know?

COVID-19 can live on some car surfaces for up to three days? And you thought you could get away with your little nephew pawing the glove compartment with those grubby mitts.

So as much as you’ve been told to wash your hands, you’ve also got to start sterilising your car. Think about all the things you touch most; the steering wheel, window controls, HVAC, infotainment system, door handles, rear view mirror, all of it.

And don’t just splash on some bleach thinking that’ll do the job. Some products will actually end up damaging surfaces and materials, and so it’s crucial that you’re buying the right products for cleaning.

Without further ado, here are General Motors’ top tips for cleaning the inside of your car:

General Motors’ top tips for cleaning your car’s interior: What products should I buy?

• WHO (World Health Organisation) have said that alcohol-based cleaners with at least 70% alcohol are effective in killing the coronavirus.
  
• Alcohol-based cleaners are safe to use on almost every surface in a car’s interior and will effectively wipe away most germs and fingerprints. In fact, most auto manufacturers use alcohol-based cleaners to sanitise cars before shipping them to customers.
  
• If you don’t have an alcohol-based cleaner, soap and water will do the job.
  
• Never use bleach, peroxide or ammonia-based cleaners because these can break down some materials in your vehicle, causing permanent damage.
  
• Your owner’s manual should have information on what material’s been used regularly in your car. For example, genuine or synthetic leather. If you’re not sure, contact your dealer.

What surfaces need cleaning?

• You’re mainly going for the steering wheel, wiper and turn signal stalks, passenger and driver door armrests, grab handles, seat adjusters, ignition button, shift lever, radio knobs, and touch screens.
  
• Use a microfiber cloth with the alcohol-based product and give those surfaces a good scrub.
  
• When it comes to genuine leather interiors, use soap and water and be gentle. After cleaning, use a leather conditioner to prolong its good condition.
  
• Do not use scented wipes or wipes that have bleach. They’ll damage screens and leather.

And there you have it, General Motors’ top tips for cleaning your car’s interior. Need more tips? There’s plenty more on here.

Is your car feeling the lockdown blues? How about some car care?