It goes without saying that it can be challenging to keep your car clean. How do some people make it look so easy? Is it magic? Or, is it just a bit of light work little and often? Vanarama's Laura Day reports.
Keeping on top of car clutter is difficult, especially when you've got a family with children leaving crisp packets around and trailing mud into the car with their wellies.
But, there are some simple things you can do to keep on top of it all. Here's 3 of the best…
1. Little and often is the key
The very best way to make sure your car is kept spick and and span is to take a little bit of rubbish out with you whenever you leave the car. Whether you're pulling up to a supermarket carpark or if you've just arrived at work, think twice before getting out of your car empty handed and look around you to see what you could put in the bin on your way out.
You'd be surprised what you'll find under the car seats too – old water bottles, gum wrappers, Tupperware – there really is no end to the hidden mess!
2. If it's not needed, get rid!
If you're a hoarder, (and let's face it – we can all be guilty of this from time to time), then only keep what's absolutely necessary in your car. You might think you need to keep endless blankets, coats, wellies, umbrellas, snacks and first aid kits in the car, when in reality all you really need is the bare essentials.
Think about the seasons too. If you're driving in winter, then you're much more likely to need to carry wellies and umbrellas around in your car. A handy trick to keep all of your stuff together is to put your extra bits and bobs in a rucksack – that way you don't have loose wellies and coats lying about everywhere.
3. Expect mess and deal with it
Try as you may, it's impossible to keep on top of the cleanliness in your car all of the time. Even the most dedicated car cleaner will inevitably run into some mess. There are going to be times when you're simply too busy to keep up the good work – and, that's OK!
As soon as you accept that cleaning your car should become a regular thing, it'll seem a less daunting and painful task. It can be hard to talk yourself into doing it, but it's something that doesn't take much time in the grand scheme of things.
The hassle of cleaning your car is all in your head. Just get over this hurdle, and you are golden.
Show your car some TLC
One of the things that clean car owners have in common is their appreciation for the car they drive and a true desire to take care of it. Whether you drive a brand-new car or an old banger, clean car owners feel a sense of obligation to keep it tidy and clean because they like driving their car.
Taking pride in your car's appearance is something that should come naturally, and if it doesn't then once you start your new cleaning regime, you'll be a totally converted clean freak.
A little goes a long way when it comes to car maintenance and upkeep, and the sooner you begin your new car-cleaning philosophy, you'll start to see for yourself how easy it really is.
Enjoyed this article? you can find more like it on the Vanarama Car Blog.
