You might think your car or truck is clean. However, most drivers are carrying around a dirty little secret and don't even know it. That's why keeping the interior of your vehicle clean is important, especially for people with allergies.

 

article continues below ↓

Cleanliness in our kitchens, hotel rooms and restaurants has been a hot topic, but many people forget to take the simple steps needed to keep the interiors of their vehicle clean. This is particularly important given the amount of time most people spend in their vehicles. The average American generally spends up to 2.5 hours per day driving, according to a Yankelovich Monitor study. That's almost 38 days out of the year.

Allergens like pollen, as well as bacteria, are just some of the substances that invade our vehicles. Traveling with a pet can add hair and dander to

the mix. In addition, residues from road dust, soot, pesticides and other chemicals collect in car and truck interiors, entering through ventilation ducts or open windows and doors.

Here are a few tips to help eliminate these "invaders":

 

• Use disinfectant to wipe down the steering wheel, instrument panel, door handles and other frequently used areas regularly. Remember to clean the interior of the vehicle each time you wash the outside.
  
  
• Keep interior surfaces clean by vacuuming seats, carpet and floor mats regularly.
  
  
• GM, Honda, Toyota and other dealers offer cabin air filters in many of their more recent models. Depending on the type of filter, it may even reduce exhaust fumes that can make their way into a car. If your vehicle is equipped with a cabin air filter, change it out when recommended by the owner’s manual.
  
  
• You may also ask your technician to clean the air-conditioning system.