Useful Car Cleaning Guide for Pet Owners

Owning a pet is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. You have a friend for life who is always happy to see you. But, as all pet owners know, they can also be messy. Pets shed fur, track in dirt and mud, and generally make a mess of things – especially your car. You have to deal with the odors, stains, and hair everywhere. But, with a little effort, the fur and the odor will not be an issue. Here is a guide to keeping your car clean, despite your furry friend’s efforts to make a mess.

How to Get Rid of Pet Hair

The first step is to prevent the hair from getting in your car in the first place. If your pet rides in the car frequently, invest in a pet seat cover. These are relatively inexpensive and will save you time and effort later. They come in various styles, so you can choose one that fits your needs. You can use an old towel if you only take your pet occasionally or have a small dog or cat. Spread it over the seat before your pet gets in. This will collect most of the hair and make cleanup much more manageable.

Another way to keep pet hair out of your car is to brush your animal before getting in the car. This will remove loose hair and cut down on the amount that ends up in your vehicle. If you have a long-haired animal, this is particularly important. You may want to invest in a special pet brush that can reach down their back.

If you still find pet hair in your car, there are a few ways to remove it. First, you can try using a lint roller. These are very effective at picking up hair and can be found cheaply at any grocery or drug store. Another option is to use tape. Wrap a piece of duct tape around your hand, sticky side out, then simply pat down the seats and the hair will stick to the tape. You can also try using a damp sponge. Run the sponge over the seats, and the hair will stick to it.

How Often Should You Clean Your Car?

According to this graphic from Compare the Market, most American car owners only clean their car once every few months, but if you have a pet, you should aim to clean your car at least once a week. This may seem like a lot, but it is necessary to keep the hair and odor under control. Cleaning your car more often will also make it easier to keep it clean. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to clean when you eventually get around to it.

A weekly cleaning schedule should include vacuuming the floor and seats, spot-cleaning any stains, and wiping down all surfaces. This may seem tedious, but keeping your car looking and smelling its best will make you feel better in the long run.

Make sure you choose cleaning products that will not damage your car’s upholstery or paint. Pet-specific cleaners are a good option, but you can also use mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage your car.

Getting Rid of Pet Odors

In addition to hair, pets can also leave behind unpleasant odors. The best way to combat these is to prevent them from happening in the first place. After each car ride, take a few minutes to clean up any accidents. If your pet has an accident, clean it up immediately. The longer it sits, the harder it will be to remove the odor.

If you tend to forget (or if your pet is particularly resistant to being cleaned up), there are a few things you can do to mask the odor. First, try using a pet odor neutralizer. These are available at most pet stores and can be sprayed on the seats. Another option is to use a scented air freshener. This will not only remove the odor but also cover it up with a more pleasant smell.

It is vital to keep your car clean if you have a pet. This may seem like a lot of work, but it is necessary to prevent the hair and odors from taking over your car. Vacuum the floor and seats, spot-clean any stains, and wipe down all surfaces weekly. Use pet-specific cleaners or mild, unscented soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals that damage your car or your pet’s health. If you do this, you can keep your car looking and smelling its best.