How to Detail the Interior of a Car

When it comes to cleaning the car, it's all in the details, or rather, detailing. Once the wax job is finished, take a little time to go beyond the usual vacuuming job and really work on the interior. Your car will thank you and a well-kept car brings higher returns at trade-in time.

Things You'll Need

  • Micro-fiber towel
  • Paintbrush
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Sponge
  • Soap
  • Use a micro-fiber towel to wipe off the dust on the door interior, because it won't leave lint behind.

  • Brush away dust from door handles and door crevices with a paintbrush. Keep a vacuum cleaner handy to suck in dust as you brush. Clean soiled areas on the doors with a sponge and a little soap.

  • Vacuum dirt from the door jamb, then follow by wiping with the micro-fiber towel. Vacuum the floor of the car interior as you continue detailing.

  • Use the paintbrush on the dashboard, if it is a textured surface, with the vacuum cleaner following along. Use the micro-fiber towel on fine surfaces and on the gauges to avoid scratching the surface.

  • Dampen a sponge with water and a little soap and wipe any soiled areas on the dashboard and steering wheel. Use a gentle soap such as you would use on the car exterior.

  • Wipe off the water with a sponge, then dry with a towel to finish detailing the front part of the car.