It’s that time of year again when the brutal cold of winter gives way to a warmer, somewhat crisper spring sun. Yes, Holi has returned, bringing with it the delights and exuberance of colour. However, while Holi brings a lot of joy, the festivities may take a toll on your car—from the exterior as well as the inside.

Here are some simple-yet-effective techniques and tactics to ensure that while you enjoy the celebrations during Holi, your vehicle remains stain-free and gleaming as it does every other day.

Also Read | Holika Dahan 2022: Date, history and significance

Park it safe

The most simple and apparent thing to do on the day of Holi festivities is to get a safe parking location for your vehicle. And by “safe,” we don’t always mean “away from the scrutiny of people with malevolent motives.” This implies that if you have a garage but don’t use it very often, it could be a good idea to roll your vehicle in for the day. If you don’t have access to a garage or even a covered parking lot, invest in a car cover of adequate size. Not only will the cover prevent undesirable colours off the external bodywork of your car, but with summer approaching, it will also protect it from UV radiation.

Also Read | Holi 2022: Tips to protect your eyes from colour

Invest in car wax

Car wax, or the more expensive choice of ceramic coating, will almost certainly ensure that any undesired colour stains on a car may be easily removed later. The extra coating on the car’s body functions as a barrier against colours and other pollutants, allowing the vehicle to shine like new.

Also Read | Try these pre and post-Holi skincare tips for a carefree festival

Double-check all windows

Consider youngsters playing Holi next to your car, with water pistols taking direct aim through an open window and into your tidy cabin. Nightmare? What’s more, reprimanding the youngsters won’t be fair because, hey, there’s a naughty side to every innocent face. Instead, double-check that all of your car’s windows are tightly rolled up.

Also Read | Table mat or wall art: Use your stained Holi clothes creatively

Protect the cabin

You’ve just finished playing Holi around your house when the phone abruptly rings. It’s your college gang, and they’re having a good time in another section of town. They summon you to join them. They will not accept “no” as a response.

While it is evident that you should have a full shower to remove any colours before stepping into your vehicle to join the gang, if that is not feasible, cover the seats with old clothing, towels, bedsheets, or even huge covers for AC outside units.

However, be sure you fully wash your hands before touching the door handles, steering wheel, or gear lever.