Tips on Cleaning the Interior of a Car

Whether you provide professional car wash services or a self-service car wash, you’ll find that customers are always trying to figure out the best way to keep their cars clean and looking as new as possible. A successful car wash business knows that premium service begins with top-quality car wash materials. Learn what products to use in your business and the best practices that will ensure happy and returning customers.

Materials

As the saying goes, “An artist is only as good his tools.” The same applies to auto detailing. The following list includes common car-cleaning accessories and materials needed when cleaning the interior of a car, all supplied at a wholesale price.

• Cleaning and conditioning products and sprays
• Towels, pads, and wipes
• Brushes and other applicators
• Vacuum

Front Panel

The front panel is easily the dirtiest and most important area to clean first. It can also be the hardest because of the many cracks and crevices that are hard to reach. Start by vacuuming all debris and crumbs from the dashboard, center console, and other compartments, such as the door pockets.

Next, wipe away dust and dirt with a microfiber cloth dampened in multi-purpose cleaner (e.g., Armor All Glass & Interior Cleaner). Remove excess with a dry microfiber cloth. Use a dust brush for hard to reach areas. For premium leather surfaces, you can opt for a leather cleaner and conditioner (e.g., Armor All Leather Care Wipes). For hard vinyl surfaces, finish with a layer of protective coating, making sure to avoid the steering wheel.

Windows

Spray windows with an auto window cleaner and use a microfiber glass cloth to wipe the window horizontally. Then use another dry microfiber glass cloth and wipe down vertically to remove streaks and give it a final polish.

Upholstery

Vacuum the seats first to remove debris and crumbs. Cloth upholstery can be washed by gently working at stains with a scrub brush and spray-on cleaner. Vinyl and leather seats can both be cleaned with a lotion-based leather cleaner.

A word of caution: Vinyl cleaners should not be used to clean leather seats.

Carpet and Mats

To vacuum carpeting, remove any mats and slide the front seats forward to reach built-up dirt and debris.

Odor Removal

After you have finished, you can add a complimentary car air freshener as a finishing touch. A popular choice is the Little Tree brand air freshener, which we have available in a variety of scents and packages, including classic favorites such as Royal Pine and New Car Scent. These are also the perfect product for self-service car washes to place in their vending machines. We carry a wide selection of car freshener products and other popular brands such as Febreze, Yankee Candle, and Vent Sticks.

Additional Discounts

To stock up and save on commercial car wash supplies and other auto products, register an account with Superior Car Wash Supply or call (800) 554-9274 to speak with a customer service representative.