Driving that can be a drag sometimes. Think about the last time you had to hop in your car on a hot summer day or wait for your windshield to thaw out on a cold winter’s morning. Maybe you came out to your car in the garage to notice a ding in your door. Whatever the case may be, there are some car hacks that can help you get by with less frustration. Here are 12 things you might want to consider to save time, money, and your sanity.
1. Use a Pool Noodle to Prevent Door Dings
If you park in a tight spot, a pool noodle can make a world of difference. Just cut it lengthwise and attach it to your garage wall where your car door swings open. This will help you prevent damage when you’re opening your door. I wish I’d known this hack when we had a small garage! It would’ve saved our car doors.
2. Cool Down Your Car Fast on a Hot Day
There are few things worse than having to slide into a car on a hot summer day. It literally feels like you are sitting in an oven. Thankfully, there is a quick fix. You can roll down one window. Then open and close the opposite door several times. This helps with airflow and pushes the hot air out of the vehicle. I’d also always recommend a sunshade for your windshield. It helps keep things from getting so hot.
3. De-Ice Your Windshield With Rubbing Alcohol
De-icing a windshield is something many people get stressed about first thing in the morning. Maybe you’re late for work or you simply don’t have time to wait for things to thaw out. Mix two parts rubbing alcohol with one part water in a spray bottle. This will help the ice melt away without any of that endless scraping.
4. Use a Towel to Protect Your Dashboard
Sun exposure can damage your dashboard and other interior elements of your car. Draping a towel over your dashboard can help reduce heat buildup and UV damage. It’s key to choose a light-colored towel to reflect heat most effectively.
5. Keep a Silicone Cupcake Liner in Your Cup Holder
We’ve all had cup holders that turn into a crumb-filled mess. Silicone cupcake liners can keep you from dealing with that. When they get dirty, all you have to do is take them out and wash them. They can also come in handy for holding small items (like all those pennies in your cup holders). This car hack can keep your vehicle looker neater with little effort.
6. Transform Your Headlights With Toothpaste
Toothpaste (or baking soda) can be a really effective cleaner on your headlights. Having foggy headlights can reduce your visibility and just make your car look bad. You can apply toothpaste or baking soda and water to the headlight lens and scrub it with a soft cloth. Rinse it with water and wipe it dry to see your headlights transform in from of your eyes. This can be an affordable alternative to restoration kits.
7. Repurpose a Shoe Organizer for Backseat Storage
If you drive around with your family often or take road trips, a shoe organizer can be a game-changer for the backseat. Just hang it over the back of the car seat. Your kids (or whoever is in the back) can use the pockets to store snacks, toys, wipes, water bottles, and whatever else you might need handy. This hack keeps everything organized and within reach for your passengers. It can especially come in handy if you have kids.
8. Eliminate Odors With Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a natural deodorizer that can absorb bad smells. You can put a small bag of it under your seat and it will absorb odors from food, pets, or moisture. It’s more effective and long-lasting than traditional air fresheners. Replace it every few months for the best results.
9. Use Clear Nail Polish to Stop Windshield Cracks
I’ll start by saying this is a temporary fix. You can apply clear nail polish to seal a windshield crack and prevent it from spreading. However, this won’t last forever. You’ll still need to get it professionally repaired as soon as possible.
10. Save Gas With Proper Tire Inflation
It’s important to keep an eye on your tire pressure and make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. This will help you improve your car’s fuel efficiency, handling, and overall safety. It’s a win-win for your wallet and your ride.
11. Prevent Foggy Windows With Shaving Cream
We’ve all been driving and asking ourselves, where is the fog? On the inside or outside? Shaving cream can help it from forming on the interior of the vehicle. You can apply a small amount to the inside of your windshield and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. This effectively creates a barrier that prevents fog from forming. You may need to reapply it periodically, but it is a good hack.
12. Double Your Trunk Space With a Net Organizer
A net organizer can quite literally double your trunk space. It gives you a second layer of storage and prevents things from rolling around in your trunk while you’re driving around. Attach it to the sides of your trunk to hold groceries, tools, emergency supplies, or whatever else you might need. It is easy and functional, making it a great hack for anyone who values making the most of their trunk space.
Upgrade Your Driving Experience Today
Drivers face some annoying things at times. Each of these car hacks can help you keep your car in shape and make your travel easier. Have you tried any of these hacks? How did they work for you?