How do I make sure the phone holder stays in the car?

Time to read 3 min

A car phone holder that doesn’t stay in place can be quite frustrating. Luckily, there are simple steps and tips to ensure that your holder stays firmly in place. In this article, you’ll learn how to optimally attach your phone holder, whether you’re using a suction cup, adhesive strip, or magnetic mount.

Common Problems with Phone Holders

Phone holders can lose their grip for several reasons:

  1. Dirt and dust : Dirt can accumulate on both the holder and the surface, reducing adhesion.

  2. Cold temperatures : Extreme cold can affect the flexibility of the materials, causing the holder to loosen.

  3. Unsuitable surfaces : Texture or irregularities on the dashboard can reduce grip.

  4. Suction Cup or Adhesive Strip Wear : Over time, the adhesive or rubber of the suction cup may become less effective.


Addressing these issues will improve the adhesion of your phone holder.

Preparation: the basis for good adhesion

1. Clean the surface

Cleaning the surface where you attach the phone holder car suction cup is essential. Use a cloth with some alcohol to remove dust, oil or other residue. Let the surface dry completely before attaching the holder.


2. Clean the holder

Make sure the suction cup or adhesive strip of the holder itself is also clean. Rinse the suction cup with warm water and dry it with a lint-free cloth. This will remove dirt and restore stickiness.


3. Check the surface

For best results, choose a smooth, flat surface. Texture or imperfections will significantly reduce adhesion.

Tips to make the suction cup sticky again

A suction cup is a common mounting method, but it can sometimes be difficult to get it to stay firmly in place. Here are some tips:


1. Use warm water

Dip the suction cup in warm water. This will soften and make the rubber more flexible, allowing it to adhere better to the surface.


2. Use a little moisture

Lightly moisten the edge of the suction cup with water or saliva before attaching. This will help create an airtight seal.


3. Apply extra pressure

Press the suction cup firmly and hold for a few seconds to improve adhesion.


4. Use petroleum jelly or vegetable oil

Apply a thin layer of Vaseline or oil to the edge of the suction cup. This will fill in any minor surface imperfections and create a tighter seal.

Alternatives to suction cups

If the suction cup does not work properly, you can consider other mounting methods:

1. Double-sided tape

Choose a strong double-sided tape, such as 3M, to firmly attach the holder to the dashboard. Make sure the surface is clean before applying the tape.


2. Adhesive pads

Adhesive strips or pads are ideal for dashboards with a light texture. They provide a strong bond and are often reusable.


3. Magnetic holders

Magnetic holders are easy to use and have a strong grip. Just make sure the metal plate on your phone case is firmly attached.

What to do in cold weather?

Cold temperatures can reduce the grip of a holder, especially suction cups and adhesives. Here are some tips to solve this problem:

  • Heat the suction cup : Hold the suction cup under warm water for a while or use a hair dryer to make it more flexible.

  • Place the holder in a warmer location : Choose a location in the car that is less affected by cold air currents, such as a spot closer to the ventilation.

Maintenance and inspection

To ensure your phone holder stays in place for a long time, regular maintenance is important:

  1. Clean regularly : Clean the holder and surface at least once a month to prevent dirt build-up.

  2. Check for wear : If the suction cup or adhesive strip shows signs of wear, replace it.

  3. Reposition if necessary : ​​If the holder is no longer secure, try reattaching it after thorough cleaning.

What if nothing works?

If you have tried all of the above tips and the holder is not sticking, consider the following:

  • Invest in a new holder : Sometimes the holder is simply worn out and it is time for a replacement.

  • Choose a different type of holder : Consider a holder that is specifically designed for your type of car or dashboard material.

Conclusion

A well-placed phone holder not only increases convenience, but also safety while driving. By carefully cleaning the surface and the holder and using clever tricks such as warm water and Vaseline, you ensure that your holder will stick firmly. With regular maintenance and adjustments, your holder will remain reliable and ready to use. Safe on the road with a firmly placed phone holder!