What to Use for Disinfection Inside the Car During the Pandemic?
3 Answers
Use steam disinfection or ozone disinfection. Here are the relevant introductions: Steam disinfection: Steam disinfection mainly utilizes high-temperature steam to kill germs or render them inactive. First, clean the vehicle with ordinary detergent and waterproof the electronic components inside the car. Then, spray cleaning agents and disinfectants inside the car, and finally disinfect with high-temperature steam. Since steam may have adverse effects on the car's electronic systems and has a limited effect on the air conditioning system, it is more effective in sterilizing seat leather and fabrics. Ozone disinfection: Ozone sterilization is also one of the better choices for car disinfection. Car ozone disinfection can kill various stubborn viruses and bacteria in the air, completely eliminate odors, and provide a healthy and comfortable interior space. It uses a car-specific disinfectant machine that can quickly generate a large amount of ozone for disinfection. When the ozone reaches the specified concentration, it can quickly kill bacteria and viruses and eliminate odors inside the car. Moreover, using ozone for disinfection does not produce any substances harmful to the human body.
During the pandemic, I found that using 70% alcohol wipes is the most convenient way to disinfect my car. I simply wipe down high-touch areas like the steering wheel and door handles. A 70% concentration is just right—too high can irritate the skin or damage the interior, while too low is ineffective. Remember to wear disposable gloves when cleaning and ventilate the car for 10 minutes afterward to ensure no residual odor remains. Disinfecting once or twice a week is sufficient; doing it too often is wasteful. Additionally, I use diluted 84 disinfectant (1:50 ratio) to spray the floor mats, followed by a water rinse to prevent corrosion of plastic parts. For leather surfaces, I avoid frequent alcohol use and opt for gentler quaternary ammonium disinfectants to protect the car's materials. Regular disinfection like this helps reduce the risk of contamination while keeping the car clean.
I drive a lot, and during the pandemic, using disinfectant wipes is the best choice for car disinfection. For example, those alcohol-based brands are super quick—just pull one out and wipe. Focus on high-touch areas like the steering wheel and gear shift, and clean them after every long trip. Avoid doing this during direct sunlight to prevent moisture buildup and bacterial growth. Don’t toss used wipes carelessly; dispose of them in a sealed bag. I also like to add some car-specific sprays, such as neutral disinfectants, which can freshen the air when sprayed on the AC vents. Ideally, disinfecting once a day is sufficient, but be extra cautious if multiple passengers have been in the car. This method not only kills germs but also leaves the car smelling fresh, making it safe and hassle-free.
