Drivers have been advised never to clean their car with one common household item. Experts in car care caution that while some home cleaning products can be useful, using the wrong one can cause significant damage to a vehicle.

Katie Newman from vehicle air freshener retailer, Carfume, said: "Even though household window cleaner is an excellent solution for achieving sparkling mirrors and windows indoors, it is best avoided for cleaning cars. This is because certain window cleaning products contain ammonia, which can potentially damage tinted windows, cause streaking and even damage interior surfaces over time."

Instead of window cleaner, Ms Newman recommended using glass cleaning products designed specifically for cars.

She said such products are free from ammonia, making them safe for use on tinted windows and interiors.

The expert said they are also designed to provide a "perfect streak-free finish".

Ms Newman went on to share three cleaning hacks for drivers who want their cars looking and smelling as fresh as possible.

Her first piece of advice is to use baking soda for the kind of stubborn car odours which just keep lingering.

She said the common kitchen cupboard item naturally absorbs smells and can help eliminate unwanted moisture as well as whiffs.

The expert explained: "Simply place an open container of baking soda under the car seats or sprinkle it directly onto the carpets and mats.

"Allow it to sit for a minimum of three hours, or ideally overnight, and then remove the container or hoover up the sprinkled powder."

The second tip is to use soft brushes for hard to reach parts of a car, such as air vents and cup holders, which can trap dust or crumbs.

Ms Newman said: "Using a soft bristled brush, a clean makeup brush or a soft toothbrush can work perfectly to loosen any dirt before you hoover."

Her final piece of advice is to keep your car free from clutter, such as umbrellas, coats, gym clothes and shopping bags.

She said these can quickly build up and contribute to persistent odours.

The expert advised following a "60-second reset" rule by taking out personal items and putting rubbish in the bin, as a standard practice every time you leave the car.

She said: "This simple habit is key to preventing unpleasant smells. Additionally, using an air freshener will help maintain a fresher environment for longer."