Your car is constantly exposed to the elements, fast food lunches, coffee spills, and dirty roadways – all things that sooner or later will require cleaning. However, it is not always easy, or practical, to keep all the various products on hand that are recommended for each cleaning situation. Therefore, you might be interested in some effective cleaning tips that utilize items you likely have on hand already. Below, we have listed unique and cost-effective alternatives to traditional automotive cleaning solutions.
Use a Makeup Brush as a Vent Cleaner
Dust and allergen accumulation in your automotive air vents can end up making you sneeze every time you turn on your heat or air-conditioning. Using a big, fluffy makeup brush is a simple and effective way to keep your vents clean and dirt free. It doesn’t matter if the brush is old or new – just make sure its free of makeup residue.
Repurpose a Squeegee to Remove Pet Hair
Most pet lovers enjoy bringing their furry friends on road trips – some pups accompany their humans every time they head out to take care of random errands. Pet hair accumulation is unavoidable when your pet is a regular passenger in your car – and this can be problematic for your human passengers – especially when they are wearing black pants.
Fortunately, it is rather simple to remove pet hair with a squeegee and a spray bottle filled with water. Simply spray lightly (don’t soak) the upholstery with water and wipe with the squeegee.
Combine Vinegar and Baking Soda to Eliminate Dirt and Odors
When it is time to deep clean your vehicle’s seats, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda will not only remove the dirt, but it will also eliminate any nasty odors as well. Simply mix these two ingredients into a paste, scrub the upholstery using a sponge or soft brush, then rinse with water.
Try Using Hair Conditioner as a Substitute for Wax
While waxing your car can be quite time consuming and expensive, it’s nice to add a protective layer and a bit of shine to your vehicle’s exterior. An easier and less costly alternative is the hair conditioner you have sitting in your bathroom – yes hair conditioner!
Because these hair products contain lanolin, which is the same ingredient you’ll find in waxing formulae, it works quite well.
Choose Olive Oil to Condition Your Dashboard
Olive oil is a versatile cooking oil, often used for cosmetic purposes as well. It also works like a charm when it comes to conditioning your dashboard. First, wipe off the dirt and dust, then, using a clean rag, gently apply a bit of olive oil, rubbing it into the dashboard. This will help protect your dash from cracking and retard dust.
Line Cup Holders with Silicone Cupcake Liners
Are you tired of cleaning gunk out of your cup holders? Silicone cupcake liners make great liners for vehicle cup holders. They will collect any spills, and are easily removed to be cleaned. Simply remove the liner, wash, rinse, dry, and replace.
Utilize a Toothbrush and Toothpaste to Scrub and Polish
Whether you want to clean the tiny nooks and crannies of your vehicle’s interior, or polish your headlights, these versatile items will do the trick. When tackling grimy headlights, wipe off with toothpaste and rinse with plain water; then repurpose that old toothbrush to reach into those impossible-to-reach areas of your car’s interior.
Avoid Windshield Streaks with Rubbing Alcohol
If you’re tired of looking through a streaked windshield, clean off your wipers with soap and water – then wipe each one with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. That will eliminate those annoying streaks – increasing your visibility at the same time.
New Cats Auto – Quality Used Auto Parts in Chicago
Once you have your car looking like a million dollars, you’ll want to make sure you keep it running right too. At New Cats Auto, we have a large selection of Chicago used auto parts to help you do just that – and save money too. Stop in or give us a call the next time you are looking for new or used car parts for your car!