12 Car Detailing Tips That Will Make Your Car Look Brand Spanking New

Every time you slide behind the wheel, your car becomes more than just a mode of transportation ā€“ it’s a reflection of your personality and a canvas for unforgettable journeys.

Keeping your car looking brand new isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a way to maintain its value and enhance your driving experience.

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy for dirt, grime, and wear to take a toll on your beloved vehicle. That’s where the art of car detailing comes into play. F

rom restoring that showroom shine to preserving the interior’s pristine condition, we’re here to guide you through 12 expert car detailing tips that will leave your car looking as if it just rolled off the assembly line.

Whether you’re an automotive enthusiast or simply want to show your car some extra love, these tried-and-true techniques will help you achieve a level of cleanliness and care that will make every drive a luxurious and rejuvenating experience.

Buckle up, as we delve into the world of car detailing and unleash the secrets to keeping your car in impeccable, “just like new” condition.

These car detailing tips will have you car looking spotless. Car cleaning hacks for the interior and exterior will make your seats, carpet, wheels, and headlights look like new. DIY auto detailing will save money over hiring a professional. You can do-it-yourself easily with these recommended tips and products. #cleaning #cleaninghacks #cleaningtips #cars
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Clean Headlights With Toothpaste

Cleaning your car’s headlights with toothpaste is a simple and effective way to remove built-up grime and yellowing.

  1. Start by washing your car’s headlights with soap and water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
  2. Apply a small amount of toothpaste (non-gel) to a dampened microfiber cloth or sponge.
  3. Rub the toothpaste onto the headlight in a circular motion, making sure to cover the entire surface.
  4. Use a separate microfiber cloth or sponge to wipe off the toothpaste.
  5. Rinse the headlights with water to remove any remaining toothpaste.
  6. Dry the headlights with a clean microfiber cloth.
  7. Use a UV protectant spray to protect the headlights from future yellowing.

car detailing tips

Wash Car Mats in the Dishwasher

Cleaning your car mats in the dishwasher is a simple and effective way to remove dirt and grime.

  1. Start by removing the mats from your car and shaking off any loose dirt or debris.
  2. Place the mats in the dishwasher, making sure they are not too close to each other so they can be cleaned effectively.
  3. Use a mild detergent and set the dishwasher to the lowest heat setting.
  4. Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the mats and allow them to air dry completely before placing them back in your car.

Use Small Utensils for Dashboard Crevice Cleaning

To tackle those hard-to-reach crevices on your dashboard, enlist the help of small utensils and a methodical approach.

Begin by gathering your tools, including soft-bristle brushes (such as makeup or paintbrushes), cotton swabs, a microfiber cloth, and a mild all-purpose cleaning solution.

Prior to applying any cleaning solution, use a brush to gently whisk away dust and loose debris from the crevices.

Next, lightly dampen either the soft-bristle brush or a cotton swab with the cleaning solution, ensuring they’re not overly saturated. With careful precision, delicately scrub the crevices to dislodge dirt and grime. As you work your way through the tight spaces, use a microfiber cloth to wipe away the loosened debris, employing gentle motions to avoid surface damage.

Once complete, consider applying a dashboard protectant, such as ArmorAll or 303 Protectant, to restore a glossy finish and safeguard against future dust and UV exposure. Regular maintenance will help keep your dashboard looking sharp and prevent debris buildup in those elusive corners, ensuring a polished and welcoming interior for your drives ahead.

car detailing tips

Use WD-40 To Remove Bumper Sticker Goo

WD-40 is a versatile lubricant and cleaner that can be useful in removing bumper stickers.

  1. Start by cleaning the area around the bumper sticker with soap and water to remove any dirt or grime.
  2. Spray a generous amount of WD-40 onto the sticker and the surrounding area.
  3. Allow the WD-40 to sit on the sticker for a few minutes to soften the adhesive.
  4. Use a plastic scraper or putty knife to gently scrape off the sticker. Be sure to hold the scraper at a low angle to avoid scratching your paint.
  5. Once the sticker is removed, wipe the area down with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any remaining adhesive residue.
  6. If there is still some adhesive residue left, you can use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth to gently wipe it off.
  7. Lastly, wash the area with soap and water and dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.
car detailing tips

Dryer Sheets To Get Bugs Off Grill

Using dryer sheets to remove bugs from your car grill is a quick and easy method that can save you time and effort.

  1. Start by wetting the dryer sheet with water.
  2. Rub the wet dryer sheet over the bugs on the car grill. The sheet’s fibers will help to loosen the bugs from the grill.
  3. Use a sponge or brush to scrub the grill gently, making sure to remove all the bugs.
  4. Use a hose to rinse the grill thoroughly, removing any remaining debris.
  5. Dry the grill with a clean towel or chamois.

car detailing tips

Use a Squeegee to Remove Pet Hair

Using a squeegee to remove pet hair from your car is a simple and effective method that can save you time and effort.

  1. Start by vacuuming your car’s upholstery and carpets to remove any loose hair.
  2. Take a dry rubber squeegee and run it over the surfaces of your car where pet hair is present. The rubber will attract the hair and pull it off the fabric.
  3. Continue to use the squeegee to work the hair off the surfaces, using a back and forth motion.
  4. Use a lint roller or a piece of tape to pick up any remaining hair or debris.
  5. To finish, vacuum the area again to ensure all hair is removed.

Dry Windows With Newspaper

The slightly rough texture of newspaper paper acts as a gentle abrasive, helping to scrub away dirt, residue, and smudges without scratching or damaging the glass. Unlike some paper towels or cloths, newspaper paper is relatively lint-free. This quality ensures that it won’t leave behind fibers or lint on the glass, resulting in a streak-free and polished finish.

Cleaning car windows with newspaper is a simple and effective method that can help you achieve streak-free results. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: If you’re using a store-bought glass cleaner, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare the solution. Alternatively, you can make your own by mixing equal parts water and vinegar or a few drops of mild dish soap in a spray bottle.
  2. Spray the Window: Lightly spray the cleaning solution onto the car window that you want to clean. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including corners and edges.
  3. Wipe with Newspaper: Take a sheet of newspaper and crumple it into a loose ball. The slightly textured surface of the newspaper will help to scrub away dirt and grime. Begin wiping the window using circular motions, applying gentle pressure. Start from the top and work your way down.
  4. Change Newspaper Sheets: As you clean, the newspaper may become damp and less effective. Switch to a fresh sheet of newspaper as needed to ensure efficient cleaning.
  5. Buff and Polish: After wiping the entire window with the newspaper, use a clean and dry section of the newspaper to buff the glass. This will help remove any remaining streaks and leave the window sparkling clean.
car detailing tips

Use a Screwdriver and Rag to Remove Dirt

Using a screwdriver to clean dirt out of car nooks and crannies can be effective, but it requires caution to avoid damaging surfaces or scratching paint. Here’s how to do it safely:

  1. Select the Right Screwdriver: Choose a flat-head screwdriver with a small or medium-sized tip, depending on the size of the nooks and crannies you need to clean. Avoid using a sharp or pointed screwdriver, as it can cause damage.
  2. Prep the Area: Park your car in a well-lit area and open the doors or access panels to expose the nooks and crannies you want to clean.
  3. Safety First: When using a screwdriver near delicate surfaces, it’s a good idea to wrap the tip of the screwdriver with a soft cloth or painter’s tape to provide an extra layer of protection.
  4. Gently Loosen Dirt: Insert the tip of the screwdriver into the crevices where dirt has accumulated. Use gentle pressure to loosen and dislodge the dirt, being careful not to scratch or gouge the surface.
  5. Brush Away Dirt: Once the dirt is loosened, use a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush to sweep away the loosened particles. This helps prevent scratching and ensures a thorough clean.
  6. Inspect and Wipe: After cleaning, inspect the area to ensure you’ve removed all the dirt. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surfaces and remove any remaining particles.
  7. Avoid Force: Never force the screwdriver into tight spaces or use excessive pressure. If you encounter resistance, stop and reassess the situation to avoid damaging your car.
car detailing tips

Line Cup Holders with Silicone Cupcake Liners

Pop some silicone cupcake liners into your cup holders to catch any dirt and crumbs that might fall in there. They are easy to dump out and wash in the dishwasher.

car detailing tips

Wipe Down Windshield Wipers with Rubbing Alcohol

Wiping down windshield wipers with rubbing alcohol can help to improve their performance and extend their lifespan.

Rubbing alcohol can effectively remove dirt, grime, and other debris from the wipers. This can help to ensure that the wipers are able to make proper contact with the windshield, and can help to prevent them from leaving streaks or smears.

Rubbing alcohol also helps to dissolve any wax or other substances that may have built up on the wipers over time. These substances can inhibit the wipers’ ability to make proper contact with the windshield, and can cause them to wear out more quickly.

car detailing tips

Use Upholstery Cleaner to Shampoo the Seats

Vacuum the interior of your car to get rid of all the loose dirt and crumbs. Spray the area with a good upholstery cleaner and scrub with a scrub brush. Start from the top of the seats and work downward. Blot up any extra moisture with a microfiber rag. This process may need to be repeated 2-3 times for maximum results.

car detailing tips

Make a DIY Air Freshener

Here is a simple DIY method to make a car air freshener using essential oils:

You will need:

  • Small piece of felt or cotton fabric
  • Essential oils of your choice (ex. lavender, peppermint, lemon, etc.)
  • Scissors
  • String or ribbon
  1. Cut the felt or cotton fabric into a small square or rectangular shape.
  2. Add a few drops of your desired essential oil(s) onto the fabric.
  3. Take a string or ribbon and tie it around the fabric to make a small pouch.
  4. Hang the pouch from your rearview mirror or other suitable place in your car.
  5. As the essential oils evaporate, they will release their fragrance and freshen the air inside your car.

Author: T&T

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