Can Spray Cans Be Left in the Car?
4 Answers
It is best not to leave spray cans in the car because the pressure inside the can is very high, which can easily lead to explosions. High Temperature Inside the Car: Spray cans are pressure vessels and should not be stored in the car, especially during summer when the temperature inside the car can rise to around 60 degrees Celsius. Vehicles with black interiors are particularly prone to causing pressure vessels to explode when exposed to sunlight. High Pressure Inside the Can: Spray cans such as sunscreen sprays, hairsprays, shaving foams, and insecticides can expel the liquid inside because the pressure inside the can is extremely high. Additionally, the contents of these spray cans are often flammable. If left in the car and exposed to sunlight, they can cause explosions.
From a safety perspective, I genuinely don't recommend keeping spray cans or similar items in your car, especially during hot summers. When parked outdoors, the interior temperature can easily exceed 60°C, posing a significant threat to pressurized containers. If heated and expanded, spray cans may explode, causing window breakage, personal injury, or fire hazards. Having witnessed similar accidents, I've developed the habit of checking items in my car before exiting, replacing explosive products with safer alternatives like roll-on bottles. The trunk is slightly cooler but still unsafe due to temperature fluctuations, and it's crucial to comply with local flammable material transportation regulations. Small habits ensure great safety—prioritize storing items in cool places like garages or beside refrigerators to protect yourself and other road users.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I must share some practical advice. Keeping spray cans in the car is definitely a bad idea. Last summer, my friend's car had a sunscreen can explode, nearly injuring someone and staining the interior. The car interior gets as hot as a small oven, and while spray can labels often warn 'keep away from heat,' this is frequently ignored. I recommend not taking the risk. If you must carry them, place them deep in the trunk or in an under-seat drawer, but remember that temperature fluctuations still pose a risk. Always do a quick check of your items before heading out, and prioritize using non-compressed sprays or keeping them in cooling bags. Driving isn't just about skill; it also involves managing what's inside your car. Developing good habits can help you avoid major troubles.
I discuss safety from a family perspective. Spray cans may explode or leak in high-temperature car interiors, posing particular danger to children, with hazards doubling in enclosed spaces. It's advisable to avoid keeping them in vehicles, use bottled products as alternatives, and develop cleaning habits to protect your family's driving environment safety.
