A common frustration with car cleaning is the inability of standard vacuum attachments to reach tight spaces. While many vacuums come with crevice tools, they often lack the narrowness and flexibility needed for detailed cleaning. This post offers a simple DIY solution using a common household item: a cardboard paper towel tube. This method provides a highly effective, customizable crevice tool perfect for tackling those hard-to-reach spots in your car.
Crafting Your Custom Crevice Tool
Creating your own narrow and flexible crevice tool is surprisingly simple. All you need is an empty cardboard paper towel tube and your vacuum cleaner.
Step 1: Attaching the Tube
Begin by gently flattening one end of the cardboard tube. This will allow you to insert it snugly into your vacuum hose. The suction from the vacuum will help hold it in place, so no tape or adhesives are necessary.
Step 2: Shaping the Tool
Once attached, you can customize the tool. Trim the tube to your preferred length – shorter for tight spaces or longer for extended reach. Flatten the opposite end of the tube to create a narrow crevice. The more you flatten it, the narrower the opening will be, allowing access to even the tiniest areas.
Utilizing Your DIY Crevice Tool in Your Car
This simple tool is remarkably versatile for car cleaning. Here are a few examples:
Cleaning the Center Console
The narrow opening of the DIY crevice tool is ideal for cleaning the intricate areas around your car’s gear shift, cup holders, and other tight spots in the center console. It can easily dislodge crumbs, dust, and other debris that accumulate in these hard-to-reach areas.
Detailing Air Vents
Car vents are notorious for collecting dust and dirt. This DIY tool can effectively clean the narrow vent slats, removing built-up debris and improving airflow.
Reaching Under Seats
Use the extended length of the cardboard tube to reach deep under the seats, removing hidden dirt and debris that a standard vacuum cleaner might miss. Its flexibility allows it to navigate around obstacles.
Cleaning Window Tracks
The flattened end can fit into narrow window tracks, effectively sucking out dirt and dust that often accumulates in these often-overlooked areas.
Conclusion
A simple cardboard tube can be transformed into a highly effective crevice tool for car cleaning. Its customizable length and narrow opening make it perfect for tackling even the tightest spots. This DIY solution provides a cost-effective and efficient way to achieve a thoroughly clean car interior. Try this simple hack and experience the difference it makes in your car cleaning routine.
