Per the advice of many local, state and federal government notices and the Center for Disease Control (CDC), driving isn't a high priority at the moment. In fact, many cities and states across the U.S. have issued stay-at-home orders and social distancing policies to keep citizens safe from the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). However, driving to the grocery store and pharmacy (or driving to work if you're still required) is an essential need-here's how to clean and disinfect your car to minimize risk.
How to Clean your Car to Minimize the Spread of Germs
Whether you're an essential worker or you've needed to make the occasional trip to the grocery store for food, you probably take hand sanitizer along with you or wash your hands as soon as you arrive back home. But, what about your car? Your vehicle is a high-touch area and can serve as a breeding ground for germs. Here's how you can reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus by regularly cleaning the inside of your car.
1. Clean first, then disinfect.
If it's been a while since you've cleaned your car's interior, do that first. Wipe down dust with a microfiber cloth and clean your windows with glass cleaner. If you have the time and resources, vacuuming out your floorboards can also help. Once your car is "clean", then it's time to disinfect by revisiting all of the high-touch areas in your vehicle.
2. Use gentle disinfectants.
You're hoping to rid your car of all germs, but you don't want to damage your car's interior in the process. Use gentle disinfectants, like rubbing alcohol, to kill germs without overdoing it. If you find yourself without any, simply using soap and water will get the job done. We'd advise against using any type of bleach or hydrogen peroxide on the vehicle's interior. Both chemicals can cause damage to the vinyl and plastics inside your car.
3. Prioritize areas that are frequently touched.
To minimize risk, it's worth giving your whole car a good cleaning, but you'll want to prioritize high-touch areas for disinfecting. For instance, you'll want to wipe down the door handles, the gear stick, any dashboard controls, seat belts, and the parking brake.
4. Spend extra time on the steering wheel.
Last, but certainly not least, you'll want to wipe down the steering wheel-and then disinfect it again. Your steering wheel is the highest-touch point in your car. And, if you share your car with other family members, then it could be a point of pickup for any germs. Keeping Lysol wipes or alcohol based cleaners in your car can help remind you to wipe it down after each drive.
Suburb Service: How We're Taking Care of our Seattle Customers During COVID-19
Even during these trying times, the team at Suburb Service is doing everything possible to continue service for your Subaru. We realize you need your vehicle ready to roll at any time, and we're here for you. To learn more about how Suburb Service is keeping you (and your Subaru!) safe during COVID-19, visit our notice page. To make a maintenance appointment or to schedule a repair service, contact us today. Show your Subaru some love.