How to Clean Your Car Dashboard Like a Pro

9 May 2023
Est. Reading: 3 minutes
What's in This Guide?
Cleaning Items You'll Need.
Rubber gloves
Wet-dry vacuum (we use the ShopVac Micro 4 Wet-Dry Vac)
Spray bottle (we use the Kwazar Mercury Pro 360 Trigger Sprayer)
Interior cleaning product
Soft-bristled detailing brush
2 x Microfibre cloths

Introduction

This article is a useful guide on how to clean your car dashboard and centre console at home. We'll show you how to clean the dashboard interior, buttons, and cupholders of a car using a simple yet effective method. An important point to note is that by using this method, we highly recommend you use a ShopVac Micro 4 wet dry vacuum (or similar).

A clean dashboard not only looks great but can also help protect your car from damage caused by dust, dirt, and debris. Some dashboards may be dirtier than others. However, by following the steps outlined in this article, you can have a clean dashboard with minimal effort. It's time to say goodbye to a lacklustre interior and hello to a fresh, clean ride!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Easy to follow instructions on cleaning your car's dashboard.

Step One: Remove All Loose Items
It's important to remove any loose items from the dashboard and centre console area before starting. This might include things like air fresheners, sunglasses, and cell phone.

Next, mix the cleaning solution in a 5-litre (1.3 US Gal.) spray bottle.

Step Two: Vacuum the Dashboard and Centre Console
Transform your car's interior from dull to dazzling with a little help from your ShopVac and a detail brush. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently remove any dirt or debris that is stuck on the surface. Then, vacuum up any loose particles from the dashboard and centre console.

Step Three: Clean Using Your Interior Cleaning Solution
Next, you can clean the dashboard and centre console using an interior cleaning solution. You can purchase a cleaning solution from your nearest motoring shop.

Liberally spray the solution on the dashboard and console and work it into all the corners and crevices with your soft-bristled brush.

Step Four: Extract the Cleaning Solution
Use the ShopVac Micro 4 vacuum to remove the excess water from the dashboard and console.

The ShopVac Micro 4 vacuum is a compact and powerful vacuum. It is specifically designed to remove liquids, including water, from surfaces.

Step Five: Rinse to Clean
Spray the cleaning solution onto the microfiber cloth. Use the cloth to wipe down the dashboard and centre console area.

Step Six: Repeat Vacuum (Fabric Panels)
Vacuum the fabric panel one last time to remove any remaining moisture.

Step Seven: Buff to Dry
After you have finished cleaning, use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the dashboard and centre console thoroughly. Use cotton buds to clean hard-to-reach areas such as air vents, buttons, and knobs.

You want to make sure to get into all the tight spaces and corners to avoid leaving any moisture behind, as it can cause damage if left to sit.

Step Eight: Condition (Leather Panels)
If your dashboard is made of leather, use a leather conditioner to rehydrate it and prevent cracking.

Use a microfiber cloth to apply the conditioner, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

DIY Dashboard Detailing: Tips and Tricks for a Professional Finish

  • Use only mild soap or an interior cleaning product to avoid damaging the dashboard and centre console.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools.
  • Test any cleaning products on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it doesn't cause damage or discoloration.
  • Regular cleaning of your car's interior can help prevent build-up and prolong the life of your dashboard and centre console.

Conclusion

Don't let dirt, dog hair, or coffee stains ruin the look of your vehicle. Instead, take control and achieve a truly professional finish using just a few essential tools.

Say goodbye to the mess and hello to a car that shines like new!

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