How to Clean the Outside & Inside of Your Car

It might feel daunting, but learning how to wash your car from inside and outside at home can be advantageous. It will not only save you money, but also help you keep your car clean and tidy. Follow our detailed steps to make the process manageable and effective.

Things You Will Need

• Wet-dry vacuum equipped with a blower function
• Toothbrushes and microfiber towels
• Leather, vinyl, and plastic car cleaning
• Cotton or chamois clothing
• Fabric softener
• Two 2-gallon buckets; - A water hose; - Foam glass cleaner
• Soap designed specifically for cars
• Two sponges or mittens for car washes
• Wheel brush, if desired
• Car wax - Optional headlight restoration or replacement package

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Declutter the Interior

- Remove any items that don't belong and dispose of trash.

Step 2: Vacuum and Blow

- Use a wet-dry vacuum to clean floor mats and blow debris from between seats and the center console.

Step 3: Dust Cracks and Crevices

- Use a toothbrush to loosen debris and vacuum it up.

Step 4: Vacuum the Floor and Upholstery

- Vacuum under and around the seats properly.

Step 5: Wipe Down the Dashboard

- Clean surfaces with a microfiber cloth and auto-specific cleaner.

Step 6: Clean the Seat Belts

- Wipe seat belts with a cloth and warm, soapy water.

Step 7: Wash the Windows

- Use foam glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth in horizontal and vertical motions.

Step 8: Replace the Floor Mats

- Put clean mats back at their regular place.

Step 9: Hose Down the Exterior

- Rinse the entire car, paying extra attention to tires and wheel panels.

Step 10: Lather and Scrub

- Fill buckets with soapy water, wash from top to bottom, rinsing the mitt regularly.

Step 11: Clean the Tires and Wheels

- Use a separate mitt to clean tires and wheels, utilizing a wheel brush for hard-to-reach areas.

Step 12: Rinse and Dry the Exterior

- Use the hose to thoroughly rinse the car, then promptly dry it with a chamois or cotton cloth, starting from the top and working your way down in circular motions to prevent rewetting.

Step 13: Apply Wax

- Once the car is completely dry, apply a wax product like Pro To The Max to create a glossy and protective layer. Using a fresh cloth, adhere to the label's directions. Usually, a single coat lasts for three months.

Step 14: Restore the Headlights

- If your headlights are dull or yellowed, consider using a headlight renewal kit such as 3M's Quick Headlight Renewal. These kits typically involve sanding and polishing the lens to restore clarity. Be cautious as some restoration kits may harm automotive paint, so follow instructions carefully or seek professional advice if unsure.

How to Keep Your Car Interior Clean

Maintaining the cleanliness of your car's interior can often seem like a daunting task. However, employing these strategies can help you keep your vehicle's interior in top condition between deep cleanings:

1. Keep car gel or putty handy for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like vents efficiently.
2. Utilize a small container for trash collection in your car, or consider purchasing an in-car trashcan to minimize litter.
3. Employ silicone baking cups as liners for cupholders to prevent residue buildup.
4. Consider investing in an over-the-seat organizer to conveniently store travel essentials, snacks, and entertainment items for passengers, especially children.

While periodic deep cleans remain essential for preserving the interior of your vehicle, incorporating these accessories can assist in minimizing messes and maintaining a fresh-smelling car interior that feels as pristine as the day you acquired it.

Completing these final steps will leave your car looking shiny, clean, and with restored headlights, enhancing both its appearance and safety.

Taking the time to wash your car at home can be a rewarding experience, both financially and personally. By following the detailed steps outlined above, you can achieve professional-level results without the need for expensive car wash services. Not only does this process leave your car looking clean and shiny, but it also allows you to take pride in your accomplishment.

From decluttering the interior to restoring the headlights, each step contributes to the overall cleanliness and maintenance of your vehicle. Moreover, enjoying the process with some music and perhaps a refreshing drink can turn a seemingly daunting chore into a satisfying activity.

So, the next time your car needs a wash, consider tackling the job yourself at home. With the right tools and techniques, you can keep your car looking its best while saving money in the process.