Spring Cleaning: Interior Must-Do's for Your Car

1. The Big Purge:

Before you even think about cleaning, you need to declutter. Take absolutely everything out of your car: floor mats, spare change, old receipts, forgotten coffee cups, and anything else that's accumulated over the past few months. Be ruthless! This is the perfect opportunity to return items to their rightful place and toss out trash. Don't forget to check the glove box, centre console, and door pockets.

2. Attack Those Surfaces:

Now it's time to wipe down all the hard surfaces. Use an all-purpose interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth to wipe down the dashboard, door panels, centre console, and steering wheel. For a streak-free finish on your instrument cluster and infotainment screen, use dedicated electronics cleaner or a clean, damp microfiber cloth. Don't forget the often-overlooked spots like air vents, cup holders, and door handles. A cotton swab or small detailing brush can be a lifesaver for cleaning those intricate crevices.

3. Don't Forget the Glass:

Clean windows are essential for both safety and a pristine look. Use a glass cleaner formulated for cars and a clean microfiber cloth. Wipe in one direction (either horizontal or vertical) on the inside and the opposite direction on the outside to easily spot and eliminate any streaks.

4. Condition and Protect:

Once your interior is clean, consider protecting it. Apply a vinyl and plastic protectant to your dashboard and other plastic surfaces. This helps prevent cracking and fading from sun exposure. If you have leather seats, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to keep them soft, supple, and looking new.

5. Revive Your Carpets and Upholstery:

For tough stains on your carpets or fabric seats, a dedicated upholstery cleaner can work wonders. Follow the product instructions carefully and be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area first. If your floor mats are removable, take them out and give them a good shake, then scrub them with a brush and soapy water. Let them dry completely before putting them back in the car to prevent mould and mildew.

6. Final Touches and a Fresh Scent:

Once everything is clean, place a car air freshener or a small sachet of your favourite scent in the car. This little detail will make your newly cleaned interior feel truly fresh and inviting.