Spring Clean: Removing Sand from Inside and Outside Your Car

Spring Clean: Removing Sand from Inside and Outside Your Car

Spring is in the air, and for many of us, that means getting our cars ready for the warmer weather and sunny drives. But if your vehicle has seen some time on the beach or dusty roads, a deep clean is in order. Sand is a tiny, abrasive menace that can get everywhere, not just on the floor mats, but also in the cracks and crevices of your car's exterior.

Here's our guide to tackling the gritty problem of sand, both inside and out.

The Interior Sand Trap

The inside of your car is a prime target for sand. It gets tracked in on shoes, sticks to clothes, and seems to multiply on its own. Left unchecked, it can scratch plastic surfaces and embed itself in your carpets.

1. Start with the Mats: Remove all floor mats, both rubber and carpet. Shake them out thoroughly, then use a stiff brush to get into the grooves and textures.

-          For rubber mats, a quick rinse with a hose will do the trick.

-          For carpet mats, a good vacuuming and a gentle scrub with a carpet cleaner will leave them looking fresh.

2. Vacuum, Vacuum, Vacuum: This is the most crucial step. Use a powerful wet/dry vacuum with a crevice tool attachment. Start from the top and work your way down. Pay special attention to the seams of your seats, the console, and the area around the pedals. Push the vacuum nozzle deep into the carpet to pull out embedded grains.

3. Compressed Air is Your Friend: For those hard-to-reach spots, like the air vents, gear shifter, and under the seats, a can of compressed air and air compressor can work wonders. Blast the sand out of the cracks and then immediately vacuum it up.

4. Wipe Down All Surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth and a good interior car cleaner to wipe down the dashboard, door panels, and all plastic surfaces. This will remove any residual dust and sand particles that have settled.

The Exterior Grime

It may surprise you, but sand can get into the nooks and crannies of your car's body. Driving on sandy roads or beaches can cause tiny grains to get lodged in door jambs, wheel arches, and even under the trim. Over time, this can lead to scratches and paint damage.

1. Pre-Rinse is Key: Before you even think about scrubbing, give your car a thorough pre-rinse with a pressure washer or a strong hose. This will dislodge most of the loose sand and prevent it from scratching your paint when you wash it.

2. Foam Up: Use a snow foam or a thick car wash soap to create a rich lather. Let it sit for a few minutes to lift the dirt and sand off the surface. The thick foam will also act as a lubricant, reducing the risk of scratching.

3. Two-Bucket Method: This is a pro tip for any car wash. Use one bucket with soapy water and another with clean water. Dip your wash mitt into the soapy water, wash a section of your car, then rinse the mitt in the clean water bucket before going back for more soap. This prevents you from reintroducing sand and dirt back onto your car's paint.

4. Don't Forget the Details: Pay close attention to the door jambs, the area around the fuel cap, and inside the wheel wells. These are all places where sand loves to hide. Use a separate, smaller brush for these areas to ensure a deep clean.

5. Final Rinse and Dry: Rinse the entire car thoroughly, making sure to wash away all soap and sand. Use a high-quality microfiber drying towel to dry the car, which will prevent water spots and give you a streak-free finish.

A little extra effort in your spring clean will go a long way in protecting your car's interior and exterior. Taking the time to properly remove sand will keep your vehicle looking pristine and ready for all your adventures.

Happy cleaning from the team at Big Box Cars!