The average driver spends about 1.5 hours in the car, so it’s important to create a healthy car environment. Spending about 1.5 hours total driving for work or school means more exposure to all kinds of pollution. In fact, longer drives can double the exposure daily to traffic-related air pollution. Especially if most of the time is spent on the freeway.
According to researchers, pollution particles are most likely 5 to 10 times higher on the freeway than other traveled roads. Another very important issue to pay close attention to is keeping the inside of the car clean. Cars tend to be an environment where a lot of germs, dust and even mold may form. To improve hygiene and air quality, clean the inside of your car regularly.
How to reduce in-car pollution
For some of us, shorter drives isn’t really an option. But if it is, try to limit your driving. It’s the easiest solution to in-car pollution. Many of us have to drive longer for school or work, so here are many effective solutions to improve clean air in your car.
First of all, it’s very important to keep a safe distance between the vehicle in front of you. Not only will this habit keep you safe and give you plenty of reaction-time, it will also help reduce air pollution coming from the car in front of you. When driving on very busy roads or high traffic areas, switching the ventilation to “recirculate” is the best way to reduce the exposure to pollution.
A good rule of thumb is to never leave your window open when you are driving on busy roads. When driving with 2 or more people in the car, carbon dioxide levels rise (CO2). To solve this issue, even if in a busier area, open your windows every 10-15 minutes to let outside air in.
Maintaining your car properly will also be a major contributor. A poorly maintained car is more likely to pollute the air inside as well as the air outside. This is a way to help yourself and others at the same time, feel free to contact us for more information. We’ll be happy to take a look and see how we can help keep your car maintained. Another way to create a safe environment in your car is to choose less-busy roads, even if it takes you a little longer. It’s also okay to keep the window open when driving on less busy roads.
Natural cleaner recipe
Like we mentioned earlier, it’s essential to keep the inside of your car clean regularly. It’s also very important to use safe and natural cleaners instead of chemicals. We prefer using damp microfibre towels in combination of a natural cleaner. You can either make your own cleaner or buy one, there are many natural options for natural cleaners. Our favourite car cleaner recipe is white vinegar and water. That’s it. It cleans and disinfects the car really well without the nasty chemicals!
The Centre for All Your Car Needs
Peter’s Auto is the centre for all your car needs with over 20 years of experience in repairing a variety of cars along with up to date mechanics and equipment. Our knowledgeable and helpful staff will take care of all your auto service and repair needs.
Our shop is located in Kitchener, ON. We proudly serve the following areas: Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge and Guelph.
Click Here to Schedule an Appointment for your next service or repair today! You can also contact us by phone at (519) 578-4533 or email: info@petersauto.ca
