At this time of year, you may get that urge to clean out your closet, organize drawers, and finally throw out the random box of junk in the garage. In preparation for the sunnier days, warmer weather, and family trips, it is the perfect time to include your car in some spring cleaning as well. When was the last time you thoroughly washed and cleaned your vehicle? Don't worry, it has been an odd year for everyone. Considering the time since it was last washed, fall leaves, winter snow and ice, and now the pollen, there is a chance your car's exterior could use some serious attention.
Consider these tips for cleaning your car this spring.
When washing the exterior of your vehicle, there are some basics you should be aware of.
- Tires and wheels should be washed first with a water-based cleaner. The rubber should be scrubbed using a tire brush and you can then wipe the wheels with a microfiber towel.
- Then, wash the body of your car – start by rinsing off the loose debris on the car – working your way down, start at the top of the vehicle. Soap up the entire car with a soap created for car exteriors to protect the paint job. Remember to clean your windshield wipers. We recommend using a natural sea sponge or a car washing mitt. Be sure to rinse your sponge or mitt with clean water as you go to avoid scratching your car with any dirt or debris that may get tangled in there. Once done, rinse the car thoroughly from the top down.
- Avoid water spots by drying the vehicle right away using a microfiber towel. Always dry the windows first because they are more likely to end up with water spots.
- If you want to give the car that extra attention it needs, consider waxing the car to give it a gorgeous shine and create an extra layer of protection against the elements. Before applying wax, always be sure the car is completely dry. Wax should be applied in a circular motion applying some light pressure. Remove the wax using one side of a clean microfiber towel and use the other side to buff it and make it shine.
When cleaning the interior of your vehicle, always start at the top and work your way down – start with interior glass, doors, and dash leaving the floors for last.
- Wipe the interior glass with a clean, dry microfiber towel. Then, use either rubbing alcohol or a moistened cleaning eraser to remove build-up on the interior glass. Finish it off by cleaning it with a microfiber towel and your favorite auto glass cleaner.
- Using an appropriate cleaner and a microfiber towel, wipe down all of your car's doors and the dashboard/steering wheel from top to bottom.
- If you have crumbs or dust build-up in hard-to-reach areas, a can of compressed air or a small brush can be very helpful.
- For your car's upholstery, we recommend you only use products designed for this purpose and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Car mats can be removed and cleaned using a carpet cleaner if vacuuming will not do the trick. Replacing car mats is easy and affordable if they are in bad shape. You may even want to consider the vinyl car mats that make cleaning easy.
- Carpets should be vacuumed thoroughly. If there's a lot of dirt or grime, you can use a stiff brush to loosen it before vacuuming.
Inspect Your Windshield
Cleaning your car is the perfect time to check your windshield. Inspect your car's windshield on the exterior for any scratches or nicks as you clean and dry it. Sometimes, you will be able to see the damage better from the inside because of the way the sun may be hitting your windshield so keep an eye on that as you clean the inside. This is also a good time to check your windshield wipers for wear and refill your wiper fluid if needed.
If you notice any damage to your windshield, don't hesitate to contact The Best in Auto Glass – Glass America. With locations ready to serve you, our team is thoroughly trained in windshield repairs and replacements and we offer FREE mobile service for your convenience. Get ahead of spring cleaning and any necessary repairs by cleaning your car and taking a close look at every angle of it.