How to Clean Your Car Interior like a Professional Detailer
A clean car makes every drive better. Plus, it helps your car stay in good shape for longer. Dirt, crumbs, and stains might seem harmless, but over time they can damage your car’s interior. The best part is you don’t need fancy tools or expensive products to clean it. With a few simple things and the right steps, your car can look and smell great again.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, grab a few basics:
- Microfiber cloths
- Vacuum (handheld or regular)
- Soft brush
- Interior cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Dish soap
- Bucket
- Disinfecting wipes
Stick to car-friendly cleaners. Ordinary household chemicals can ruin leather, plastic, or screens.
Step 1: Clear Out Trash and Mats
Start by tossing all the trash like wrappers and bottles. Take out your floor mats and give them a good shake. Carpet mats can be cleaned with a carpet cleaner. Rubber mats work well with dish soap and water. Let them dry while you clean the rest of the car.
Step 2: Vacuum Everything
Use your vacuum with small attachments to reach tricky spots like between the seats, under pedals, cupholders, and door pockets. Don’t skip the seats because crumbs love to hide there.
Step 3: Wipe Down the Dashboard and Console
Dust your dashboard with a microfiber cloth. Use disinfecting wipes on buttons, knobs, and other areas you touch often. For your screen, just a lightly damp cloth works. Avoid strong cleaners.
Step 4: Clean Cupholders, Doors, and Steering Wheel
Cupholders get sticky fast, so give them a wash with warm soapy water. Wipe door panels and the steering wheel with an interior cleaner or disinfecting wipe.
Step 5: Shine the Windows
Spray your glass cleaner on a microfiber cloth instead of directly on the glass to avoid streaks. Wipe until the windows are sparkling clean.
Step 6: Take Care of the Seats
Leather seats? Use a leather cleaner and conditioner. Cloth seats? A gentle upholstery cleaner works. Don’t soak them because too much moisture can cause mold.
Step 7: Make It Smell Good
Finish by removing odors. Sprinkle some baking soda, place an activated charcoal pack, or use a car air freshener. Your car will smell fresh for weeks.
