I love washing my car, especially when my daughter helps on a beautiful day:) There’s just something about the process and end result of a good interior and exterior car wash.
We all love shiny, clean cars that smell fresh. But with time, and the wear of the road & weather, the exterior becomes dull and grungy, dust starts gathering on dashboard plastics, and stains remain stubbornly stuck in between cracks and crevices. Don’t get me started on wheels…
So without further ado, here are the steps to clean your car at home!
Step 1: Vacuum the floor, seats, and trunk
Assuming you have gathered all the necessary supplies, start by vacuuming the floor, seats, and trunk of your car. Be sure to get in all the nooks and crannies, as well as under the seats. This will help remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has built up over time.
Step 2: Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth
This step is important because you want to remove any dirt, dust, or other debris that could be on the surface. Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth. This includes the dash, door panels, center console, and any other hard surfaces. Be sure to use a gentle cleaning solution, as harsh chemicals can damage the interior of your car. This will help ensure that your paint job goes smoothly and looks its best.
Step 3: Clean the windows and mirrors
Afterward, clean the windows and mirrors with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. You may also want to use a vinyl protectant on the dash and door panels to keep them looking new.
Next, clean the outside of your car windows. Again, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the glass. You may need to use a little bit of water to remove any stubborn dirt or grime.
Finally, clean your car’s mirrors. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the glass. Be sure to get in all the nooks and crannies, as dirt and grime can build up in these areas.
Step 4: Vacuum the vents and upholstery
Now that you’ve got the majority of the dirt and dust out, it’s time to focus on the smaller stuff. Vacuuming the vents and upholstery will help remove any remaining debris and prevent it from blowing around when the heat turns on.
To vacuum the vents, start by removing the covers. If they’re screwed in, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws. If they’re not screwed in, they should just pop off. Once the covers are off, vacuum the inside of the vents with the attachment hose.
Next, vacuum the upholstery. This includes any fabric on the seats, door panels, headliner, and carpeting. Be sure to vacuum in all the nooks and crannies, as well as under any cushions. If there are any stubborn stains, you can use a carpet cleaner or upholstery cleaner to spot-clean them.
Once you’re finished vacuuming, replace the vent covers and turn on the heat to dry out any remaining moisture. If you have leather upholstery, be sure to wipe it down with a leather cleaner and conditioner to keep it from drying out.
And that’s it! Your car’s interior will look and feel refreshed, and the air will flow more freely through the vents.
Step 5: Shampoo the car carpets and mats
Shampooing the car carpets and mats is an important part of keeping your car clean. Not only does it make your car look nicer, but it also helps to remove dirt and debris that can build up over time. You can purchase a shampoo specifically for car carpets and mats, or you can use a gentle shampoo that is designed for use on fabric.
To shampoo, the car carpets and mats, start by vacuuming them to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, wet the carpets and mats with warm water. Apply a generous amount of shampoo to the area and scrub it in with a brush or sponge. Rinse the area thoroughly with warm water and allow it to dry completely before using it again. Repeat this process as necessary to keep your car carpets and mats clean.
Step 6: Clean the exterior car
Once you have finished cleaning the interior of your car, it is time to move on to the exterior. Start by washing the outside of your car with a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove all the soap.
Next, use wax or polish on the paint to protect it from the elements and to give it a nice shine. Finally, clean those wheels and tires!
My favorite car wash soap… (never use dish soap!)
Step 7: Spray the Interior with Disinfectant
After you have removed all of the dirt and grime from your car’s interior, it is time to disinfect it. This will help to remove any germs or bacteria that may be lurking inside your car. You can use a commercial disinfectant or you can make your own by mixing water and vinegar.
Spray the solution onto all of the hard surfaces inside your car. Be sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a clean cloth.
Now that you know how to clean a car, you can keep your vehicle looking its best for years to come. Just be sure to follow these tips and you will have no trouble keeping it clean because a clean car is not only more presentable but also safer and healthier. A clutter-free cabin allows the driver to focus on the road, while a well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Plus, dirt and grime can damage a car’s paint and interior over time. So be sure to keep your car clean inside and out to prolong its life and keep it looking its best by simply following the steps above to keep your investment always looking brand new.
Read more: 2 bucket wash method of cleaning your car.
Hi folks! I’ve been a ‘car guy’ ever since that first Porsche 911 RSR poster went up on my pre-teen bedroom wall:) — Ok, there may have been a female pic or two thrown in… Farrah Fawcett comes to mind. In any case, I hope you enjoy my posts. I’ve always loved cars and have owned many, most of which have been older models that need a good bit of TLC. I’ve tried lots of detailing products and methods over the years and hope to impart some of that knowledge.
