Because our pets are like family, it’s great to bring them along on family outings or simply take them for a drive on a beautiful day.
Along with our pets comes shedding, accidents, and odors that can turn your vehicle into a furry, smelly, even embarrassing mess.
Here are some tips to keep your vehicle clean and pleasant for our furry passengers.
Getting Rid of Hair
Because shedding comes along with having pets, cleaning up the fur left behind in your vehicle is an important part of interior maintenance.
Vacuuming frequently goes a long way to keep on top of excess pet hair. Before things get out of control, make it a point to vacuum at least every couple of weeks. You may need to vacuum every week if you have a long-haired pet, one that sheds a lot or when shedding their winter coats.
For hair that gets embedded in carpet or fabric seats, using a vacuum attachment that really sucks up those stray hairs works well.
Keep a super-sticky lint roller on hand which also works well to pick up stubborn or hard-to-see pet hair. There are lint rollers specifically designed to remove pet fur, in addition to scented varieties to leave behind a fresh, clean smell.
Covering your seats with a seat cover is another option to collect and confine excess pet hair. Using seat covers makes cleaning easier and prevents fur from getting ground into your upholstery. They also help absorb damp fur and prevent muddy paws from messing up the upholstery.
In a pinch, use old towels or blankets for protection of upholstery.
Odor Control
One of the most noticeable and unflattering odors is that “wet dog smell” and is particularly offensive in the smaller confines of a closed vehicle.
A commercial carpet and/or upholstery cleaner specially formulated to eliminate pet stains and odors helps to clean and eliminate pet smells.
Other options include sprinkling a baking soda-based carpet refresher on the carpets, leave sit for a few minutes and then vacuum.
A natural yet effective option is to mix equal parts water and vinegar, spray and gently wipe upholstery and carpets with a soft cloth. Use a brush to remove stubborn stains and let air dry. Allowing the carpets and upholstery to air dry completely is important to prevent mold from forming in damp areas.
Remove and clean the floor mats while the car is air drying or while waiting for the carpet freshener to work.
Pet Friendly Tips
Instead of letting your pet bounce freely around the vehicle, try to designate a spot as their own. For driving safety, it’s best to keep pets in the back seat of the vehicle. However, if in a truck or your pet has been trained, sitting on the front passenger seat works, too.
To relieve anxiety, be sure to take your pets for fun rides instead of just vet visits. Be generous with praise and treats when your pet is well-behaved and relaxed during and after a car ride.
Clean and dry a pet who gets caught in the rain or walks through muddy or dirty areas.
Regularly brush and bathe your pet.
Conclusion
By taking good care of your pet and regularly vacuuming and deodorizing your vehicle, it will make both short and long trips a lot more pleasant for all of you.
To keep your car looking as great on the outside as it is on the inside, contact Downtown Autobody in Rohnert Park for all your paint and autobody needs.
