6 Everyday Items You Should Never Leave in a Hot Car

Summer is still here, and the weather is showing no signs of cooling down. On our daily commutes, we often make sure to bring essentials such as water bottles, phones, or sunglasses- but there are a few items you should never leave in your car. On a hot day, your vehicle can quickly become a dangerous environment- not only for people and pets, but also for the items stored inside. In just a short time, the temperature inside a parked car can reach over 60°C (140°F), even if it’s only 26°C (79°F) outside. This extreme heat can damage or ruin many common items. These are the things you should never leave in a hot car:

1. Electronic Devices

Phones, tablets, and laptops are not built to withstand extreme heat. Prolonged exposure in a hot car can damage plastic components and batteries- sometimes even causing batteries to explode. Screens can malfunction and internal memory may be compromised, leading to data loss.

2. Plastic Water Bottles

Leaving plastic water bottles in a hot car is a common and dangerous mistake. Heat can cause the plastic to release harmful chemicals into the water. Drinking contaminated water may pose long-term health risks.

3. Food Items

Food left in a hot car can spoil quickly. High temperatures create the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply, especially in dairy products, meats, eggs, and leafy greens. Eating spoiled food can lead to food poisoning and other serious health issues.

4. Medications

Heat can alter the chemical composition of medications, making them less effective, or even harmful. Some drugs, like insulin or antibiotics, must be stored at controlled temperatures. Leaving them in a hot car can reduce their potency and put your health at risk.

5. Cosmetics

Items like lipsticks, foundations, and creams are sensitive to heat. High temperatures can melt or separate these products, ruining their texture and making them unusable. They may also lose their protective properties, such as SPF or hydration.

6. Sunglasses

Sunglasses with plastic frames or coated lenses can warp or become damaged in extreme heat. The frames may bend, coatings may peel, and in some cases, the lenses can crack or lose their optical quality.

On a hot day, your car can turn into a dangerous oven for many everyday items. Keeping sensitive products out of your vehicle during extreme weather can help you avoid costly damage, protect your health, and ensure your personal safety.