3. Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces
After dusting, it’s crucial to disinfect the spots you touch a lot. We’re talking about the steering wheel, door handles, gear shifter—pretty much anything your hands are always on. Make sure to use a cleaner that’s safe for your car’s specific materials. You can pick up disinfectant wipes made for cars from any auto parts store and they work like a charm.
4. Vacuum Everything
Next up, vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Cleaning should be performed from the top to the bottom, so hit the seats first to suck up any crumbs and dirt, then do the floor mats and the carpet, especially under the mats if they’re removable. You’d be surprised what hides under there. Don’t rush this step—taking the time to thoroughly vacuum can really elevate the overall cleanliness and freshness of your car’s interior.
5. Care for Your Leather
If your car has leather seats, don’t forget to condition them. This keeps the leather from drying out and cracking, which can really ruin the look and feel. There are tons of leather conditioners out there specifically for cars. Grab one at an auto store or find it online; your car’s seats will thank you.
6. Clean the Windows
Next, use a good glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Remember not to use ammonia-based cleaners especially if your windows are tinted—it can mess up the tint. Ensuring your windows are spotless not only improves visibility but also adds that sparkle to your car’s overall appearance.
7. Polish the Mirrors
After the windows are done, give your mirrors some attention. Start with a damp cloth to get rid of any fingerprints or dust. If you spot any stubborn marks, hit them with a bit of glass cleaner for a streak-free finish.
8. Tidy Up the Boot
Don’t forget about the boot! It can get very gnarly back there. Take everything out first then vacuum thoroughly. Wipe down the sides and bottom with a damp cloth to catch any dirt that’s sticking around.
9. Use Compressed Air for the Tough Spots
Lastly, for those very hard-to-reach areas like the console and under the seats, compressed air is your best friend. Just blast it into those nooks and crannies to dislodge dirt and dust. You can find compressed air machines pretty much anywhere that sells hardware supplies.