A 40-point Guide to Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Car

Social distancing, face masks and washing your hands are essential in times like these, but since many people have to drive to work or to the supermarket, having a clean car is seemingly just as important.

Everything you touch on the outside and inside could allow the virus to spread. No need to make it an obsession, but you must realize that there are more contact areas than you might think.

• Also: Driving With a Mask Can be Dangerous
• Also: COVID-19: 5 Tips to Keep Your Car in Good Shape at Home

Incidentally, Toyota recently posted a short video highlighting no fewer than 40 vehicle components you should preferably clean—in addition to your keys. Here it is:

In similar fashion, Toyota’s luxury brand Lexus offers a clear illustration of the various contact areas that need to be cleaned using its popular RX crossover as an example:

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To help make your essential trips as safe as possible, we've highlighted the key areas in your Lexus to prioritize when cleaning. — Pour vous aider à rendre vos voyages essentiels aussi sécuritaires que possible, nous avons identifié les zones clés de votre Lexus à nettoyer en priorité.

Une publication partagée par Lexus Canada (@lexuscanada) le 15 Avril 2020 à 12 :01 PDT

If you don’t have products specifically designed to clean cars without damaging leather or other materials, there are a number of good substitutes, as Toyota reminds us. In general, a neutral detergent or soap diluted with warm water should be fine. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and wipe down your car’s interior surfaces and touch points. You can also use antibacterial wipes, provided they are alcohol-free and bleach-free.

In any case, it is recommended that you wear gloves and wash your hands properly as soon as you remove them.