Auto detailers can charge a fortune to clean the inside of your car but with the right tools and some elbow grease, you can make your car sparkle for little or no money.
Take Inventory of Interior Finishes
First take an inventory of your car’s interior. Some cleaning products can damage the surfaces in your car. If your car has leather upholstery and trim, you will need a special cleaner to maintain the finish. The other surfaces to be cleaned may be plastic, glass, fabric or vinyl. Choose a product that will clean and not damage these surfaces. For special finishes like wood or wood grain, use products designed for wood cleaning and polishing. Soap and water can damage the texture and appearance of wood.
In addition to commercial cleaners from auto supply stores, there are some household products suitable for cleaning the inside of your car. A mild detergent and water will safely clean most interior car surfaces. Avoid ammonia or ammonia based products as they are generally too harsh for the surfaces in your car.
Tools and Equipment
You’ll need a small broom, a vacuum cleaner, rags or sponges, a spray bottle, a soft bristle brush, paper towels and some newspapers. For cleaning and polishing, mild soap or detergent and water, upholstery cleaner, leather cleaner (if applicable), glass cleaner or vinegar and water solution, and plastic polish for knobs and trim.
Steps to Success
1. Take everything out of the car including air fresheners, old receipts, food containers and other trash. Remove the car mats for cleaning.
2. Shake the loose dirt from fabric mats. Wash plastic mats with cool to lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Hot water will discolor or cloud plastic over time. Rinse and dry the plastic mats. Replace all mats after the interior has been vacuumed.
3. Push the seats forward and check for stray coins or objects before vacuuming.
4. Spot clean any stains or spots on the upholstery before vacuuming. Use an upholstery cleaner or a mild detergent and water. Gently rub the area with a soft bristled brush. Wipe with a damp cloth. Do not soak the area or you may end up with a mildew problem. Vacuum the area after it has dried completely.
5. Use the brush attachment to vacuum the seats and carpet. Do not use the brush attachment on leather as it may scratch. Use the crevice tool to get between the seats and hard to reach areas like inside door panels, underneath seats and between floor pedals.
6. Clean the side panels and dashboard with a mild soap solution or commercial cleaner. Polish hard plastic surfaces with a paper towel. Knobs will shine if you use a plastic polish available in auto supply stores.
7. For spaces between knobs on the radio or temperature controls, use a damp cotton swab to remove dust and grime.
8. Clean windows with glass cleaner and paper towels. For an earth-friendly alternative, use a vinegar and water solution and polish the glass with newspaper.
9. Finish off with a quick spray of air fresherner.
10. Enjoy a ride in your freshly cleaned car!
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