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28/04/2020 News

IS DISINFECTING VEHICLES NECESSARY?

The coronavirus outbreak prompted a surge in the use of disinfectants, which are believed to be effective in getting rid of germs and viruses. Disinfectants are used to clean roads, houses, and even cars. While the disinfectant agents quickly evaporate when used in an open environment, how effective are they for our vehicles?

We know that our cars and motorcycles may be hosting germs, bacteria, and viruses. As hygiene becomes crucial in a health crisis, we are always reminded to keep surfaces clean, as our hands can be a source of viral infection. They include door handles, ignition, transmission, and the entire dashboard area including buttons. In motorcycle, it’s especially important to make sure the handlebars are wiped regularly.

But not only what to clean, you also need to be aware of what to clean it with. Bearing in mind that household disinfectants typically contain chloride that is a corrosive material for metals, vehicle owners can also make their own disinfectant agent. Make sure, however, that it contains 70 percent alcohol – just like hand rubs.

Homemade disinfectants are usually ideal. The entire surface of a car’s interior can be cleaned using isopropyl alcohol. This ingredient, however, can be damaging if used too often on leather, so be mindful with usage frequency.

READ ALSO: CAR TREATMENT FOR MOLD-FREE WINDOWS

Another ingredient to avoid is the hydrogen peroxide, known as the active ingredient of bleach. While it can kill coronavirus, it can also harm your car seats. Also, you don’t want to use ammoniac to clean touch-screen features of the car as it may damage screen sensitivity.

So, what is the safest material to use for both cars and motorcycles? The first answer would be any cleaning supplies recommended for vehicles. If they are difficult to access, you can always rely on the simple water and baby or antiseptic soap solution that contains the right pH, as soap is safe for most materials – including leather and seat covers. Pour the solution into a spray bottle, and you’re good to go.

Don’t spray too much for easy drying and use microfiber cloth if you have one. Microfiber material is incredibly soft and can catch and keep dust particles away without causing fine scratches.

Do the similar technique for your motorcycle. Disinfect the vehicle to kill viruses and then immediately wash it with water to avoid damage to the paint and metal.

And, don’t forget to keep your hands clean, too. Disinfected cars and motorcycles can attract virus again and immediately if you forget to wash your hands. In fact, hand washing is still recommended as the best way to prevent coronavirus infection.

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