When it comes to car maintenance, people often think of tasks like oil changes, spark plug replacements, brake pad changes, car washes, and applying protective films.

However, many people overlook the issue of vehicle environmental hygiene, which is closely related to our health. Since cars are relatively enclosed spaces, there are many opportunities for bacteria to thrive during transportation, carrying passengers, and daily use, yet this issue has not received much attention.

Private cars are indispensable means of transportation in modern human life and can be considered as our "second pair of legs." As seasoned drivers, it's crucial to be knowledgeable about disinfection methods.

Common methods for disinfecting and sterilizing cars can be broadly categorized into three types:

1. Chemical disinfection and sterilization:

Chemical methods involve using chemical agents to kill bacteria and viruses in the vehicle. Various chemical agents can kill bacteria and viruses, but many can corrode fabrics, leather, plastic panels, etc., commonly found inside cars. However, there are now products specifically designed for car disinfection and sterilization, produced by original manufacturers or reputable companies.

These products can effectively inhibit and kill most bacteria in the car interior and air conditioning system by atomizing the disinfectant solution using specialized equipment. It is recommended to replace the air conditioning filter after treatment, a service that can be performed at 4S stores or repair shops.

Alcohol is also a good choice for chemical disinfection. For instance, disinfectants effective against the novel coronavirus include ethyl ether, 75% alcohol, chlorine-containing disinfectants, peracetic acid, and chloroform. However, it's essential to note that while these disinfectants are suitable for widespread use, they may not be suitable or even dangerous for use in the confined space of a car. We currently recommend using alcohol for disinfection.

Here's how to do it:

Use a 75% alcohol solution to wipe down commonly touched areas such as the steering wheel, interior and exterior door handles, window buttons, floor, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, clutch pedal, trunk, etc. Then, rinse with water to achieve effective disinfection without damaging the interior.

However, avoid directly wiping leather, plastic, or fabric seats and other parts with alcohol or disinfectant, as it may cause corrosion, and discoloration that cannot be repaired. When using alcohol for disinfection, ensure the car is parked in a well-ventilated area.

After disinfection, ventilate the car promptly. Never smoke inside the car after disinfection, and start the vehicle only after proper ventilation, as ignition in a poorly ventilated car post-disinfection can lead to severe consequences.

2. Ozone disinfection and sterilization:

Ozone sterilization is also a good option for car disinfection. Car ozone disinfection can kill various stubborn viruses and bacteria in the air, thoroughly eliminate odors, and provide a healthy and comfortable interior space.

It is achieved through a specialized disinfection machine that rapidly generates a large amount of ozone. When the ozone concentration reaches the specified level, it can effectively kill bacteria and viruses and eliminate odors inside the car. Ozone disinfection does not produce any harmful substances in the human body. Nowadays, there are also many portable car ozone machines, also known as disinfection machines, which are convenient to use.

However, prolonged use of ozone disinfection may cause rubber aging in the car, so it is advisable to use it appropriately.

3. Steam disinfection and sterilization:

Steam disinfection mainly utilizes high-temperature steam to kill bacteria, and viruses, or render them inactive. First, clean the vehicle with a regular cleaner and waterproof the electronic components inside the car.

Then, spray a disinfectant inside the car and use high-temperature steam for disinfection. Since steam may adversely affect the car's electronic systems and has limited effectiveness on the air conditioning system, it is best used in combination with the first two methods to achieve comprehensive disinfection.

When disinfecting your car, it is best to use disinfectant wipes. This method is the safest, with very low corrosiveness and no harm to the human body.

Overall, maintaining a clean and hygienic environment inside your car is crucial for your health, especially considering the amount of time we spend in our vehicles. By following these disinfection methods, we can ensure a healthier driving experience for ourselves and our passengers.