July 26, 2018 by Mulberry Maids
Just like caring for your home, keeping your car interior clean and clutter free is very important. While it is easy to let stuff pile up in your car, you will be more relaxed and comfortable on your daily commute in a clean and peaceful space. It will also keep the value of your vehicle higher, which is an added bonus!
Use the following steps to help get and keep you car in great shape.
Step 1: Declutter
Start out your car cleaning by doing a thorough decluttering of everything inside. Remove anything that is not necessary on a day to day basis, and throw away or recycle items that you do not need anymore.
Step 2: Cleaning the Console and Dashboard
Use a clean rag with your cleaning solution of choice. A mild all purpose cleaner mixed with water works great. Wipe down the console, dashboard, steering wheel, and any other area that collects dust and grime, such as the arm rests. For areas that are tough to reach with a rag, try using an old toothbrush or small cleaning brush. You can use a compressed air duster to help get dust out of cup holders and in nooks and crannies.
Step 3: Interior Window Cleaning
Use a microfiber cloth and window or glass cleaner, and do a cleaning of all the interior windows in your car. Spray the cloth with the cleaner, and wipe down the windows. Try to use a dry cloth to remove any streaks that are left on the windows. If you have tinted or any specialized windows, make sure to use a cleaning solution that is safe for them.
Step 4: Seat and Upholstery Cleaning
Remove all of the floor mats in the vehicle and shake them out. For carpeted mats, vacuum them, and for plastic or rubber mats, spray them down with a hose, and scrub out any stains that are present. Next, start to vacuum the whole interior, and make sure to spend a lot of time on the floors and under the seats where dust and dirt tends to accumulate. Use a soft brush attachment on the upholstery and ceiling as to not damage it. Start with the ceiling and move down towards the floor. Use a crevice vacuum tool to help get in the seat crevices.
If you have leather seats, use the appropriate techniques and tools to safely clean them. Check out this post for tips on caring for leather furniture. For upholstered seats, follow some of these steps for simple maintenance.
Before finishing up, check for any stains on the interior, and use the appropriate removal techniques for the surface. A simple vinegar and water mixture will do wonders.
It is best to let your car air out for a couple hours after it has been cleaned. This will allow any cleaning products to fully dry, and will help to remove any cleaning chemical smells that are lingering.