10 Everyday Items That Could Explode Or Become Damaged in Your Car During a Heatwave
Scorching summer heatwaves can turn your car into an oven on wheels. When parked under the blazing sun, the temperature inside your vehicle can soar to dangerous levels—sometimes exceeding 150°F. While most people think about sunscreen and staying hydrated, fewer realize how hazardous leaving certain everyday items in their car can be. Some seemingly harmless items can overheat, burst, or even catch fire. Let’s explore ten surprising items you should never leave in your car during a heatwave.
1. Aerosol Cans
Aerosol cans, like those containing deodorants, cleaning sprays, or hair products, are a disaster waiting to happen in extreme heat. These cans are pressurized and designed to function within specific temperature ranges. When left in a hot car, the pressure inside the can builds up rapidly. At high enough temperatures, the can may rupture or even explode, causing damage or injury. To avoid this risk, always store aerosol products in a cool, shaded place—definitely not your car.
2. Electronics and Batteries
From smartphones to laptops, electronics are a staple of modern life—but they don’t fare well in heat. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most devices, are highly sensitive to high temperatures. Excessive heat can lead to battery swelling, leakage, or even explosions. Additionally, extreme heat can damage internal components, rendering your devices useless. Instead of leaving them in your car, take your gadgets with you or invest in a sunshade to reduce interior temperatures.
3. Disposable Lighters
Disposable lighters are convenient but also highly flammable under the right conditions. If left exposed to extreme heat, the gas inside the lighter expands, which can cause the lighter to burst. This not only creates a fire hazard but also risks injuring anyone nearby. Be especially cautious if you store lighters in your glove compartment, as it traps heat and accelerates temperature buildup. To stay safe, always keep lighters out of direct sunlight and extreme heat.
4. Canned Beverages
Canned sodas, sparkling water, or energy drinks might seem harmless, but they’re not heat-friendly. The high temperatures in your car can cause the liquid inside the can to expand. This builds pressure, increasing the likelihood of the can bursting or spraying sticky liquid everywhere. Not only is this messy, but it also creates an unnecessary safety risk. To avoid a fizzy disaster, remove all canned beverages from your car before heading inside.
5. Medications
Many medications, such as insulin or antibiotics, must be stored within a specific temperature range to remain effective. Leaving them in a hot car can degrade their potency or even render them completely ineffective. In some cases, medications exposed to heat may develop harmful byproducts. If you rely on temperature-sensitive medications, always carry them with you or store them in a cooler bag. Don’t risk your health by leaving them in a hot car.
6. Sunscreen Bottles
Ironically, sunscreen, an essential item during the summer, doesn’t handle heat well. When left in a hot car, the pressure inside the bottle can build, causing it to leak or even explode. Additionally, prolonged heat exposure can degrade the active ingredients in sunscreen, making it less effective. This puts your skin at risk when you need sun protection the most. Keep sunscreen in your bag or a shaded area instead of your car.
7. Crayons
If you have kids, chances are you’ve got crayons in your car for entertainment. Unfortunately, crayons are highly susceptible to melting under intense heat. Not only does this create a colorful mess on your seats or console, but the wax can also be difficult to clean up. If melted crayons seep into fabric, the stain may be permanent. To avoid this sticky situation, store crayons in a cool, dry place or leave them at home.
8. Canned Food
Canned food is often thought of as durable and long-lasting, but high temperatures can compromise its integrity. Extreme heat can cause the metal can to expand, putting pressure on the seams and increasing the risk of the can bursting. Additionally, the heat may accelerate the spoilage of the food inside. This not only makes the food unsafe to eat but can also lead to an unpleasant odor in your car. Always store canned goods in a cool environment to maintain their quality.
9. Plastic Water Bottles
Many people leave plastic water bottles in their cars for convenience, but it’s not a good idea. When exposed to high temperatures, chemicals from the plastic can leach into the water. Some plastics contain BPA, which may have harmful health effects when consumed in large amounts. Moreover, heat can cause the bottle to warp or melt, creating a mess in your car. Opt for reusable, insulated bottles to keep your water cool and safe.
10. Makeup and Beauty Products
Lipsticks, foundations, and other beauty products can turn into a gooey mess when left in a hot car. Heat not only melts these products but can also cause chemical separation, making them unusable. Additionally, some beauty products, like compact powders, may crack under extreme heat. This results in wasted money and a frustrating cleanup process. To preserve your beauty essentials, carry them in a small bag and keep them with you.
Heat Trap
Your car isn’t just a mode of transportation—it’s also a heat trap during the summer. Leaving certain items inside can lead to unexpected messes, costly damage, or even safety hazards. By being mindful of what you store in your vehicle, you can avoid unnecessary risks and protect your belongings.
Have you ever left something in your vehicle that exploded or became damaged? Let’s discuss it in the comments below.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.