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. A paper towel may be handy in your car. Avoid eating and drinking in your car. It can be dangerous for your car and a health risk.
Cleaning a rental car
Make sure you empty the car before returning it. This will help you see any visible stains or dirt. Wipe away any bird feces and dust off any carpets. It is important to avoid parking under trees or eating while renting a car. It might be worth washing the car in order to remove any stains.
Many car rental companies have improved their cleaning procedures in order to provide the best possible sanitation and cleanliness. For instance, some companies use alcohol-based disinfectants, which can reduce the risk of transmission of disease. Many companies require their employees to use face masks and wash their hands frequently.
Cleaning a rental car: guidelines from the CDC
The CDC has guidelines that can be used to clean a rental car. You may have heard of them. These guidelines suggest that rental cars must be cleaned and disinfected no later than 24 hours after being rented. To reduce the risk of germ transmission, you can use disposable equipment to clean your rental car. Once you've completed the cleaning, wash and throw away your gear. You should also open all windows and doors to allow adequate 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. For example, companies such as Enterprise Holdings have implemented enhanced cleaning protocols. These protocols ensure that all parts of the rental car are clean, sanitized, disinfected, and handed to a new driver.
Cost of cleaning a rented car
Cleaning costs for a rental car will vary depending upon the company and its condition. Some companies charge only $30, while others charge $400. Cleaning fees are determined by the car's exterior and interior. Some car rental companies may have cleaning fees. You should confirm this before booking.
Cleaning the rental car can be expensive, especially if the car is extremely dirty. Dirty rental vehicles can affect the car's after-market price and the financial health of the company renting it. 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. You may have to pay extra to clean it.
Rent a car and use a carwash
It is important to clean the car thoroughly before you return it to the rental agency. Most car rental companies require that your vehicle is returned in the same condition it was received. You should take photographs of the vehicle and remove any trash before returning it.
Be sure to verify the car wash's sanitizing or disinfectant levels before you rent a car wash. You may have to pay extra for excessive dirt. However, a car wash can remove excess dirt. A car that is too dirty to rent can lead to cleaning and valet charges.
Dispute a cleaning fee with your credit card company
If you are charged for cleaning your car rental, you can appeal the charge to your credit card company. It is possible to also contact the mediation service of the car rental company, but this could take quite some time. For support of your claim, you may also be able to take a photograph or video the car you rented.