If you’re like me, you like to keep a small supply of essentials in your car so you’re prepared for anything that comes your way. When the weather gets hot things can start to overheat and potentially melt. That emergency candy bar in your glove box becomes an ooey-gooey mess.
So what’s safe to keep in your car during the blazing months of summer? We’ve pulled together a list of the top things you definitely shouldn’t leave in your car once the weather gets hot.
Kids or Pets
This should go without saying, but you should never, ever leave kids or pets in a hot car. According to the National Highway Safety Administration, the temperature of a car can climb 20 degrees in 10 minutes. Heatstroke can occur in the shade, with the windows down and at temperatures as low as 57 degrees.
Drinks
Most major soft drinks and bottled waters are a type of plastic that could release harmful chemicals that according to a study by the University of Florida. So if your water or soda is hot in the car, just throw it away! Consider using a refillable stainless steel or glass water bottle. By using a reusable container you’re being more environmentally friendly too!
Athletic Gear
Leaving your sweaty gym clothes and sneakers in the car can get smelly on a regular day, but it’s worse when the weather is hotter. That smell is actually bacteria and the combination of heat and the moisture from your sweat make bacteria multiply faster.
Snacks
Like that previously mentioned emergency candy bar, it’s always good to have a little something to snack on in the car. Rather than something that would melt, stick with snack food like chips, pretzels, crackers or nuts that won’t be affected by the heat inside your car. If you’re going somewhere with refrigerated items in hot weather, make sure to pack a cooler with some ice so you can keep it cool as long as possible.
Cell Phone
If you leave your cell phone on the dashboard of your car on a hot day, you may permanently damage your phone. Cell phone electronics are sensitive to extreme hot and cold weather and the functionality of your cell phone battery may also be permanently impaired.
