Most vehicle owners know that regular car washing is an essential, but simple, maintenance task, which should also include car interior cleaning. Simple mistakes, like wearing the wrong clothes and jewelry that results in scratches and scuff marks, can mar any car cleaning job . Here are a few do’s and don’ts to follow.

Do:

Work in a shaded spot.

When washing your car, make sure it’s parked under shade or cover. Working under direct sunlight is hot and tiresome, but it also makes water dry fast, leaving spots on the paint and chrome. Opt to clean your vehicle in the morning to avoid the heat of the day or someplace shaded and cool.

Rinse the car thoroughly.

Before giving your ride a good lather, rinse the surface first to dislodge larger dirt particles and road grit. After soaping the exteriors, use clean water to get rid of the suds, sponging as you go to get rid of all traces of soap and bubbles.    

Go with a two-bucket system.

Not all water is equal, and a bucket of dirty water can do a number on your car’s surface. Avoid this mistake with a two-bucket system—one for your soapy mixture and the other for rinsing with clean water. Refresh your clean water bucket as it gets dirty. Some car washers even use three buckets, with the third dedicated to wheels and tires.

Don't:

Use dish detergent.

Refrain from using dish or laundry detergent as these cleaners are formulated with harsh chemicals that can damage your paintwork and finish. Instead, invest in a quality car shampoo that contains carnauba wax for effective cleaning and better protection.

Let the car air dry.

Air drying your vehicle isn’t a good idea, so avoid this at all costs. It leaves annoying water marks and spots on the surface, which can be tricky to remove when they set in. When drying your car, use a microfiber towel or chamois to absorb excess water without harming your car’s paintwork and finish.

Forget the interiors.

Give your interiors, not only the exterior, a good scrubbing. Vacuum the carpets, seats, dashboard, doors, and crevices where dust and dirt get trapped. Shampoo the rugs if you must, but for a fresher cabin, opt for an expert car interior cleaning by going to a professional.   

Remember the tips above when cleaning your vehicle. For a deeper clean, bring your car in for auto detailing at Auto Embassy in Columbia, MO. Their team of highly trained technicians performs a range of quality work, from comprehensive car interior cleaning to intensive paint protection services. Call (573) 397-4167 for appointments, or learn more about their car interior cleaning options online.