Many car owners dedicate their weekends to washing their vehicles and giving them a thorough cleaning. However, the products they use may be causing more harm than good. With Spring in full bloom, the desire to clean the car is at its peak. Many viral TikTok hacks have gone viral, claiming that they can clean the car’s interior with ease. But are these hacks worth following? According to Ben Custard, a car cleaning expert, many popular car cleaning hacks could do more harm than good.

50% of UK Car Owners Don’t Know How to Clean Their Car’s Interior

According to Motorpoint’s research, 50% of UK car owners confess they don’t know how to properly clean their car’s interior. This lack of understanding can put motorists at risk of following incorrect online advice, potentially leading to irreversible damage. With nearly 21 million motorists in the UK, this is a significant concern.

Be Cautious of Viral Car Cleaning Hacks

While viral car cleaning hacks may seem harmless and easy to follow, it’s essential to treat them with caution. Most of the tips and hacks popular online haven’t come from an expert, and there’s no guarantee they’ll work or won’t cause permanent damage to your vehicle.

Trustworthy Car Cleaning Hacks

However, there are some car cleaning hacks worth following. Ben Custard recommends seeking advice from automotive experts and looking for step-by-step guides that have been endorsed by experts. He shares a few of his favorite car cleaning hacks, including a clever rubber glove hack for removing pet hair.

Rubber Glove Hack for Pet Hair

If you struggle to remove pet hair from your car upholstery, Ben suggests using a rubber glove. By dampening the glove, running your hand across the upholstery, and then submerging the glove in warm water, you can dislodge the hair. This hack is a great alternative to traditional cleaning methods and doesn’t risk damaging your car.

Shaving Foam-Free Cleaning

Ben also recommends avoiding shaving foam, which can lead to discolouration and leave behind oil stains that are difficult to remove. Instead, use car-specific soaps and cleaners that are gentle on car surfaces.

Avoiding Common Car Cleaning Mistakes

There are several common car cleaning mistakes to avoid. Ben warns against using toothpaste to clean mirrors, as it can create scratches and smears. He also advises against using washing up liquid, which is too harsh for car surfaces and can erode the protective wax and dull the paintwork over time.

Using Olive Oil on Your Car

Ben also advises against using olive oil on car surfaces, as it can leave behind oil stains and make the dashboard greasy to touch. Most dashboard materials won’t absorb the oil, so it’ll just sit in the surface of your dashboard, increasing the chance of oil being transferred to other surfaces in your car.

Avoid the Toothpaste Trick

The toothpaste trick, where people clean their mirrors with toothpaste, is another common mistake. While it may seem to work initially, it can create scratches and smears in the reflection if not wiped off properly. Instead, Ben recommends using white vinegar on a microfiber cloth to get a streak-free shine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while viral car cleaning hacks may seem harmless, it’s essential to treat them with caution and seek advice from automotive experts. By following Ben Custard’s recommendations and avoiding common car cleaning mistakes, you can keep your car clean and safe. Remember, a little research and caution can go a long way in ensuring your car remains in good condition.