When detailing your car, it’s all about the details. That’s what makes a thorough car detail different from a simple exterior wash or interior cleaning. With a plan in place and plenty of time, you can detail your car just like the pros – but read this first!
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Pre-Detail Tips & Tricks
Before starting, keep these things in mind.
- Detail the interior first and the exterior last. This prevents outside dirt, dust and other debris from entering your car.
- Use two buckets – one for dirty water, one for clean water.
- Detail the exterior in the evening, or in the shade. Hot and sunny weather produces more water streaks.
- Clean bird droppings off your car right away, as this substance is full of paint-destroying acids.
- Always clean from top to bottom – both interior and exterior detailing.
How to Detail Your Interior
- Remove the larger items first (cups, paper, other garbage), then focus on the smaller problem areas.
- Remove floor mats, seat covers and removable upholstery.
- Clean all removed with a foaming cleaner, and allow plenty of time to dry.
- Brush your carpets before vacuuming. This allows your vacuum to grab more dirt.
- Vacuum the carpet and upholstery.
- Clean all leather surfaces, including seats, steering wheel and other appointments.
- Clean all vinyl surfaces. This usually includes interior door panels, the dashboard, etc.
- Clean all interior mirror surfaces. Don’t forget the rear-view mirror!
- Use a cleaning brush or cotton swab for hard-to-reach areas, including air vents, door pockets, trim panels and other tight spaces.
- A 30-40 psi air hose is ideal for removing dust and debris from cup holders, emergency brake compartments and other small areas.
Bonus interior detail tip:
Keep a few 100% cotton or microfiber towels in your car at all times. They’re great for spills and general cleaning, and you can also use them immediately after an exterior wash; sometimes, water can enter your interior through door jambs, windows and the trunk.
Skip the chemical cleaners for your steering wheel, brake & gas pedals, emergency brake and shift device. These are items you need to grip, and using a vinyl or leather cleaner can reduce friction. Instead, use warm water with a small amount of soap.
