A COMMON MOTIVE
A Common Motive is our weekly educational series where we share research, tips, and insights to help drivers keep their vehicles cleaner, healthier, and easier to maintain.
From interior cleanliness and allergens to salt buildup and vehicle care, our goal is to provide useful information that benefits every driver.
We hope you find these articles helpful, informative, and occasionally surprising.
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A study conducted by researchers at Aston University found that many areas inside our vehicles can contain higher levels of bacteria than the average household toilet.
Researchers tested several vehicle interiors and found bacteria on nearly every surface examined, including the boot, driver's seat, gearshift, dashboard, steering wheel, and rear seats. The highest levels of contamination were found in the boot and driver's seat, where food, groceries, dirt, and everyday items are commonly stored or handled.
The study also found that older vehicles generally contained higher levels of bacteria than newer vehicles, suggesting that contamination can build up over time when interiors are not cleaned regularly.
While most drivers clean their vehicles when they appear dirty, the research suggests that bacteria, allergens, food residue, and other contaminants can accumulate long before they become visible.
The researchers concluded that vehicle interiors should be cleaned more regularly and that upholstery and high-touch surfaces can benefit from periodic deep cleaning.
Read the original research article below
https://www.aston.ac.uk/latest-news/study-reveals-inside-your-car-dirtier-average-toilet