Spring is the perfect time to refresh your
space and do a deep clean. While the term “spring
cleaning” may conjure the mental image of washing drapes and vacuuming beneath
the furniture you’re never in the mood to move, chances are your car could also
benefit from a thorough cleaning.
Exterior
Exterior
Body - Start with a general wash down to remove that
outer layer of dirt and grime. Pay extra attention to the underbody, where salt collects over
the course of the winter. Use wax to give your
vehicle that extra shine!
Windshield - After giving your windshield a thorough scrubbing, treat your car to
a set of new wipers. Windshield wipers are relatively inexpensive and can make
a huge difference in your driving experience. Not to mention a squeaky clean
windshield makes for a safer drive!
Wheels
- Pay extra attention to your wheels, making sure to
remove all build up from the wheels and hubcaps.Use a stiff brush to get into
all the nooks and crannies on your tires. While you’re cleaning, use this
cleaning spree as an opportunity to check the pressure on all of your tires.
Windows
- Even after giving your car an initial rinse, there's
a good chance that there is still some dirt and grime stuck to your windows. Use window cleaner and
some elbow grease to make them shine!
Under
the hood - Check under your hood. You may be surprised
to find a build up of leaves and debris that have collected throughout the
different seasons. Carefully remove the debri. Depending on how dirty your
vehicle is under the hood, you may even consider bringing it to a professional
who can clean up your engine.
Interior
Carpeting
and Upholstery - Take a damp cloth and remove any dirt
or grime that may have gotten on the interior fabrics of your car. Once dry,
use a vacuum to remove remaining dirt and dust. PRO TIP: If you have pets who have enjoyed a trip or two
in your vehicle, use hairspray to spray
down your seats and carpeting. The hairspray will adhere to the pet hair and
make it easier to vacuum up.
Air
Vents - As you’ve probably noticed, a lot of dust gets
caught up in these vents. Use q-tips or makeup brushes to dust out the vents.
Floormats
- If you have removable floormats, give them a good
scrubbing. Hard plastics can be sprayed down with the hose, whereas carpeted
floormats should be tackled with carpet cleaner.
Glove
compartment - Take a chance to go through all of your
compartments and throw away garbage and other items that have accumulated. Go
with a minimalist approach and only keep what is necessary in your vehicle. You
may be surprised by how relieved you feel to get rid of the extra “stuff.” Set
yourself up for future success by keeping a garbage bag in your vehicle.
Dashboard
and Console - Over the winter, it’s easy for dust to
accumulate on your dashboard and console. Use a cloth to wipe the dust and
allergens away and - while you’re at it - make a point to clean out your cup holders!
Trunk - There’s no way around it - somehow things just end up stored in your
trunk. To give your vehicle’s trunk a thorough cleaning, remove all items and
vacuum out dirt and dust. As you put things back in your trunk, ask yourself
what’s necessary to keep stored in your vehicle and what can go. If you don’t
already have one, make up a car safety kit and store it in your trunk. Not sure
what to include? Click here for our suggestions.
Fragrance
- Now that your car is squeaky clean, add to the
effect by making it smell that way! Use repurposed dryer sheets or air fresheners
designed for you air vents to keep your car smelling fresh. Just be careful not
to hang air fresheners from your rearview mirror. Doing so can be a distraction
and in some cases, earn you a ticket.
