Five ways to fur-proof your car
Drool, claw marks, clumps of fur … it’s like a horror movie, except it’s playing in your car every time your pet comes along for the ride.No one really wants to leave a much-loved member of the family at home, especially on weekend excursions. But you need help to prevent the collateral damage that can take thousands of dollars off the value of your on-road investment. Here are five car-saving tips to ensure the family dog isn't making too much of a mess of the car.
Make like a groomer
Get a jump on a fur-free car pre-ride. A regular shampoo session with a product like Well & Good Dog Shed Control Shampoo, $24.49, helps remove loose hairs and leaves your pooch with a pleasant agave and aloe scent.
Then, before you switch on the engine, drag out the big guns – a professional-style grooming brush that could save your upholstery and your sanity. The Pet Dematting Comb 2 in 1 Undercoat Rake Grooming Brush, $21.99, is recommended for Labradors to Chihuahuas and claims to reduce shedding by 98 per cent.
Always use protection
In many states of Australia, it’s illegal not to have your dog restrained in your car. In NSW, for example, drivers caught with unrestrained dogs can face fines of more than $400. That means you need to use a doggie seatbelt, available from any pet store or online. A seatbelt will, theoretically, also help keep fur in one place but team it with a hammock, a seat and boot cover, and door protectors for best results. Find all of these at an affordable price at Autobarn, or your favourite auto shop. While you’re there, invest in some extra thick, rubber mats. They’ll act like fur and dirt collectors that, unlike your car’s flooring, can be shaken and washed.
Suck it up
You could splurge on your own, super-sucking vacuum, like The Worx Vacuum Cleaner, from $111, with a fur-busting 106w motor; or you could make a trip to your local car wash with a pocket full of gold coins and find a vacuum that is also up to the job. The trick is to do it at least weekly to even the odds in your car’s favour.
De-fur other surfaces
Defying the laws of physics, some fur will travel from your restrained, car-riding dog to the top of the dashboard and any other visible plastic, vinyl or leather surfaces. De-hair, wipe and shine your interior with paper towels and Meguiar’s Quick Interior Detailer, $26. This will also help disguise claw marks, to some extent, but serious scratch damage will require professional repair.
A special word about drool
Who knew drool and nose print build-up was a thing? If you’re finding it tough to remove either from your windows, a mix of equal parts warm water and white vinegar will do the job. Follow it with a commercial window cleaning product to add shine.
SOS: Still have fur that seems glued to the upholstery? While rubber gloves, balloons and lint brushes are all recommended by car cleaning enthusiasts, a piece of super-sticky duct tape from a hardware shop, rubbed across the offending piece of seating, is your best weapon.
Related: Pets in cars: What are the rules when on the road?
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