6 Tips to Keep Your Car Clean During Winter

Winter weather can be tough on your vehicle. The cold temperatures bring snow and ice that you have to scrape off. On top of that, salt and sand are used to combat icy roadways. And we can’t forget the slush and snow that you and your passengers are bringing into your vehicle.

Having a clean car in the winter may feel impossible, but with some planning and dedication, you can do it! Here are 5 winter car cleaning tips to help avoid a slushy mess:

1. Use floor mats. Using floor mats in your car can help prevent snow, salt, and sand from being ground into the carpet. A flexible rubber car mat with a deep pocketed tray offers maximum protection for your car’s floors and should be able to withstand winter temperatures without cracking under pressure. Another trick is to place a towel underneath the car mats to provide an extra layer of protection.
2. Remove trash. Car cleaning starts on the inside. Toss the old food containers, papers, and bags that are littering the interior of your car. Keep trash from accumulating in your vehicle so it does not mix with the slush and other wet elements. The only thing worse than a mess is a soggy mess.
3. Vacuum. It is always a good idea to regularly vacuum your car, but with the salt buildup in the winter months, this is even more important. Vacuuming helps prevent dirt from getting trapped and saturated into the floors and upholstery, which can be especially difficult to clean in winter. Whether you use your household vacuum, one at a car wash, or a shop vac, make sure you get under the floor mats and into all the cracks and crevices. Don’t forget to vacuum under the seats and in the trunk!
4. Wipe it down. The dashboard, windows, and seats should be wiped down to provide a clean and sanitized base. Cold and dry winter air can pull the moisture from your car’s leather and vinyl, so apply a conditioner to guard against drying and cracking, as well as staining and discoloration from the winter elements. Ideally, this should be done before temperatures dip below freezing.
5. Clean your shoes off. Last but not least, avoid bringing slush into your car in the first place. Clean your shoes or boots before getting inside the car. Brush them off, stomp them clean, or have a spare pair to put on before going inside your car.
6. Apply a protective wax. Applying a protective wax before the season starts can help shield your paint from harsh road salt and grime.
    

Keeping your car clean and well-maintained can impact the car’s overall value and save you money by reducing the need for costly cleaning and repairs. Follow these cold-weather tips from Acuity—and think spring!