Often times, rental cars are left dirty, but there are steps you can take to prevent a ruined rental car. You should first clean up any spillages immediately. You may want to keep a paper towel in your car. You should also avoid drinking or eating in your car. It's not only dangerous for your car, it can also pose health risks.
Clean up a rental car
Before you return a rental car, empty it completely. This will make it easier to spot any dirt or stains. Make sure to vacuum up bird feces from your carpets. It is important to avoid parking under trees or eating while renting a car. It is possible to wash the car to remove stains.
Many car rental companies have improved their cleaning procedures in order to provide the best possible sanitation and cleanliness. Some rental car companies use alcohol-based disinfectants, which can help reduce the risk for disease transmission. Companies may require employees to wear masks on their faces, and to wash their hands regularly.
Guidelines by the CDC for cleaning a rented car
You have probably heard of the CDC's guidelines regarding cleaning a rental vehicle. However, you don't know what they are. It is recommended that rental cars should be cleaned and disinfected within 24 hours of their return. Your rental car should be cleaned with disposable gear to reduce germ transmission. After cleaning is done, wash and discard your gear. It's also important to open windows and doors to allow proper air circulation. It is important to use soap and water to clean surfaces, but it is also important that you disinfect the area with a disinfectant.
Rental car companies are now doing more than just disinfecting surfaces. Enterprise Holdings for instance has improved their cleaning procedures. These protocols ensure that all parts of the rental car are clean, sanitized, disinfected, and handed to a new driver.
Cleaning costs for a rental vehicle
Cleaning a rental car can cost you different amounts depending on its condition and company. Some companies charge only $30, while others charge $400. Cleaning fees depend on both the interior and exterior of the vehicle, which could include dirt or mud. Some car rental companies have set cleaning fees, which you should check before booking.
Cleaning the rental car can be expensive, especially if the car is extremely dirty. Dirty cars can cause a decrease in the after-market market value and can also impact the financial health the car rental company. You should avoid putting liquids or crumbs into your car. It doesn't matter if you use a vacuum cleaner or hand-washing the car, it should be clean before you take it to the curb. Otherwise, you might be charged for cleaning your car.
To clean a rental vehicle, use a car washer
You should thoroughly clean your rental car before returning it to the rental company. Most car rental companies require that your vehicle is returned in the same condition it was received. It is important to remove all rubbish from the car before you return it. Also, make sure to wash the car quickly and take pictures.
Before you use a car wash to clean a rental vehicle, be sure to check the car wash's sanitizing and disinfectant levels. While a car wash may remove excessive dirt, it can also lead to additional charges. Cleaning and valet fees may be required if you rent a car with excessive dirt.
Your credit card company may charge a cleaning fee.
You have the right to challenge any charges you are charged for cleaning the rental car. If the rental company has a mediation service, you may want to contact them. However, this can take some time. For support of your claim, you may also be able to take a photograph or video the car you rented.