Spring Clean: Carpet Edition

Step 1: The Pre-Clean Prep

Before you start scrubbing, you need to clear the deck.

• Remove everything: Take out all floor mats, loose change, forgotten snacks, and anything else that's found a home on your car floor. Give the mats a good shake or a vacuum outside of the car.
• Vacuum, vacuum, vacuum: Use a powerful vacuum with a crevice tool to get into every nook and cranny. Pay special attention to the areas under the seats and along the door sills. The goal here is to remove all the loose dirt, dust, and debris before you introduce any moisture.

Step 2: Spot Treatment and Stain Removal

Got a coffee stain from last month's road trip? Now's the time to tackle it.

• Identify your stain: Different stains require different treatments. For most general dirt and grime, a good carpet cleaner will do the trick. For oil or grease stains, you might need a dedicated degreaser.
• Test in an inconspicuous area: Always test your cleaning solution on a small, hidden patch of carpet first to make sure it doesn't cause discolouration.
• Apply and blot: Spray or dab your chosen cleaner onto the stain. Let it sit for the recommended time (usually a few minutes), then use a clean microfiber cloth to blot the stain. Don't rub, as this can spread the stain and damage the carpet fibres. Repeat as needed until the stain lifts.

Step 3: The Deep Clean

Now for the main event!

• Choose your weapon: You can use a commercial car carpet cleaner (available at any auto parts store) or a simple DIY solution of warm water and a small amount of dish soap or a dedicated carpet cleaning detergent.
• Work in sections: Don't try to clean the entire carpet at once. Work on one section at a time, starting from the back of the car and moving forward.
• Scrub gently: Using a soft-bristled brush or a carpet cleaning machine, gently work the cleaner into the carpet. A machine will provide a deeper clean and extract the dirty water, which is a major bonus. If you're doing it by hand, a little elbow grease goes a long way.
• Rinse (if needed): If you're using a soapy solution, you'll need to rinse the carpet with clean water to remove any residue. A wet/dry vac is excellent for this step, as it can extract the water and speed up drying time.

Step 4: Dry and Deodorize

This is a crucial step to prevent mould and mildew.

• Dry thoroughly: Leave your car doors and windows open to allow for maximum air circulation. If possible, park in a sunny spot. You can also use a fan or a wet/dry vac to help pull out the remaining moisture. Do not put the floor mats back in or close the car up until the carpets are completely dry to the touch.
• Optional Deodorizing: To get that "new car" smell, sprinkle a little baking soda over the carpets, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. It's a natural and effective way to neutralize any remaining odours.
• Re-install mats: Once everything is bone-dry, give your floor mats a final wipe down and put them back in.