It’s no secret that college students don’t typically clean their vehicles as often as they should. Many either leave it up to the rain or drive through a car wash every so often at best. However, rain doesn’t use soap, and automatic car washes have many known risks.
Worst of all, these options ignore many overlooked parts of the vehicle when it comes to cleaning. Let’s put an end to that as we explore the parts of your car you should clean more often to ensure a nice and safe vehicle.
Windows and the Windshield
Let’s start with the car’s windows and windshields. Keeping these surfaces clean is about more than just aesthetics. It’s also an essential factor in maintaining good visibility while driving. Make it a point to clean the interior and exterior of your windows and windshields regularly, especially during the pollen season or after a long drive. Pay extra attention to the rear windshield, as it tends to collect dust and grime. Also, be sure to do a real cleaning, not just one with the squeegee you find at the gas station.
Wheels and Tires
The wheel and tires are also commonly missed parts on the car’s exterior. These components are in constant contact with the ground, making them highly susceptible to dirt, grime, and other debris. Cleaning them regularly helps prevent brake dust buildup and prolongs their life. Just make sure you know how to clean your wheels and tires correctly. Simple soap and water won’t be enough to get the job done.
Door Jambs
While many people take the time to ensure their doors are clean, the spaces between them—the door jambs—often go overlooked. This area is a prime spot for dirt and grime buildup since they remain held in place there whenever the door closes. Regularly cleaning door jambs can prevent corrosion and make opening and closing your doors smoother.
The Dashboard and Interior Surfaces
Your car’s dashboard and other interior surfaces can accumulate lots of dust and grime over time if you don’t care for them. That’s why you must take the time to clean this part of your car more often. Be sure to wipe them down with a microfiber cloth or an interior cleaner, paying close attention to the nooks and crannies often missed during a quick cleaning. Clean interior surfaces don’t just look great but also help maintain your car’s overall value.
Air Vents
Of course, your interior won’t stay clean for long if you have dirty air vents. These play a major role in circulating air throughout the cabin. If the vents become clogged with dust, pollen, and other particles, those contaminants will eventually spread throughout your car. Use a small brush or compressed air to clean your vents and improve your car’s air quality.
Carpets and Mats
Lastly, your car floor bears the brunt of dirty shoes, food spills, and other grime. That means most people’s carpets and mats are usually quite filthy. Vacuuming your car’s floors regularly and doing a deep clean using a carpet cleaner every few months will help maintain their good condition. For stubborn stains, consider using a specialized car carpet stain remover. Keeping your mats and carpets clean contributes to a cleaner, more comfortable driving environment.
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