The unexpected 'enemies' of car interiors.
Many popular car accessories help mask unpleasant odors, but they can also damage the car's interior if used incorrectly.
In addition to acquiring safe driving skills, drivers need to learn about accessories that can damage their vehicles if not used correctly.
Fragrance products
Car air fresheners include those that hang on the rearview mirror, air vent diffusers, and liquids in passive diffusers. These products contain volatile solvents to effectively disperse the fragrance into the air. A common characteristic of these solvents is their corrosive nature to fabrics, paints, plastics, and other materials.
Therefore, if these fragrance products come into direct contact with buttons, air vents, armrests, etc., in a car, peeling is very likely to occur. Especially if left in contact for a long time in hot and humid weather, the plastic parts may melt.
To avoid damaging the car's interior, air fresheners should be securely hung near the rearview mirror. If their view is obstructed, they can be placed in the glove compartment. Note that air fresheners should not be hung near the gear shift or in front of the air conditioning vents.
For diffuser-type air fresheners, avoid placing them on the dashboard. If bumped, the fragrance will spray throughout the car cabin, potentially scorching the dashboard surface.
Cosmetics
Not only scented products, but also everyday cosmetics such as mosquito repellent creams and sprays contain the compound DEET, which is highly corrosive to plastics, leather, rubber, and synthetic fabrics.
In addition, sunscreens containing titanium oxide can react with the plastic and natural oils in leather seats, especially at high temperatures, causing discoloration.
strong chemicals
Harsh chemicals are considered the "hidden enemy" of car interiors. Many people believe that using soap, glass cleaner, or strong detergents will make the car interior shine. But in reality, harsh cleaning chemicals can inadvertently damage the protective surface layer of the car interior, causing it to deteriorate faster.
Accordingly, strong chemicals strip away the protective layer, causing the leather and plastic to fade, even dry out, crack, and become brittle.
Solutions containing strong acids or alkalis can dull, scratch, or even melt the plastic on dashboards, gear shifters, car doors, and other components.