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How to keep your car germ-free

Posted at 5:25 AM, Mar 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-26 05:52:20-04

(LEX 18) — While there are fewer places to go right now, many are still using their car often, whether for work, to go to the grocery, or just to take a drive to get out of the house. So, it's important to know how to keep it clean during this time.

Without proper cleaning, your vehicle could be a hotbed for germs and infections, including the coronavirus.

The first places to keep in mind are spots you most often touch. This includes the steering wheel, seat belts, radio controls and door handles, just to name a few. Wipe them down often with a disinfectant wipe or alcohol. A good scrub with soap and water will also work.

Then focus on other places like cup holders, display screens and A/C vents. Your hands touch more than you may realize.

When it comes to cleaning products, you shouldn't use bleach or hydrogen peroxide, because they can damage the vinyl or plastic in your car. You also shouldn't use ammonia-based cleaners, as those can cause damage too.

Also, if you were able to get hand sanitizer from the store, it's best to not keep a large pump bottle in your car. Heat buildup during the day can cause the liquid to “boil,” expanding the bottle and causing leakage, leaving a big mess to clean up. It's better to keep a smaller or travel-sized bottle with you.

When you're at the gas station, use gloves when you use the pump or hand sanitizer before you get back in your vehicle, so you don't transmit germs.