For many people, pets are more than just companions. Many families have pets as part of their family. Whether it is a quick visit to the vet or a road trip with your dog, your furry friend will have to spend a bit of time in your car. Unfortunately, pets can leave behind odors, dander, and fur. Even, they can leave scratches that make maintaining a spotless interior a challenge. However, with the right approach, you can keep your car smelling fresh and looking good.
Here are a few expert interior car detailing tips that every pet owner should know:
Begin with Prevention
The ideal technique to deal with pet messes is to stop them before they happen. You can use pet hammocks or seat covers that are easy to remove and wash. They can safeguard your seats from claw marks, dirt, and fur, apart from making cleaning quicker. You can otherwise use a cargo liner if you ride your pet in the back of a hatchback or SUV. For leather interiors, you can consider using a seat protector spray to prevent scratches and make wiping off fur an easy task.
Vacuum Like a Pro
Pet hair, as you know, can get embedded in upholstery and carpets. To get rid of them, a quick vacuuming is not sufficient. Rather, you can consider using a pet-specific vacuum with a strong suction power. You can also consider using a vacuum with a motorized brush attachment. You can begin working with small sections and use a pumice stone or rubber brush to loosen stubborn hair before you begin vacuuming. You also have the option to use a mild mist on the seats with a fabric softener and water mix. This will help bring down static, thereby making it easy to lift hair from the fibers.
Neutralize Odors at the Source
Pets can leave smells that linger in the vents and upholstery of your vehicle. You might be masking odors with the help of air fresheners. Rather than doing this, you can handle the source of odors directly. You can use an enzyme-based cleaner that is designed for pet messes. It can break down organic residues that create odors. You can spray it on carpets, mats, and seats. Let it stay for a few minutes before blot drying. For deep cleaning, you can consider steam cleaning your interior. It will help sanitize the surfaces and get rid of bacteria without using harsh chemicals.
Clean Hard Surfaces and Windows
Pets often leave nose prints and smudges on dashboards, door panels, and windows. You can consider wiping these surfaces with a streak-free glass cleaner using a microfiber cloth. For vinyl or plastic panels, you can consider using a non-greasy interior cleaner that can help restore the shine without leaving residue. When doing this, pay more attention to the inside of windows, where drool or condensation from your pet’s breath can gather.
Conclusion
Sharing car rides with your pet does not mean sacrificing cleanliness. When you use the right tools and regularly clean your vehicle along with some preventive measures, you can maintain an odor-free and spotless interior. Professional car detailing can also help rejuvenate the interiors of your vehicle after a long trip with your pet.