Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
A sticky steering wheel can be a hassle and even dangerous to drive. The good news is that cleaning is relatively straightforward, and you don’t have to spend much money on fancy products or hire a professional detailer. You can make your steering wheel look brand new with just a few household items and some elbow grease.
How To Clean A Leather Steering Wheel?
- Wipe it down with a damp cloth. This will remove any surface dirt or debris and make cleaning easier.
- Apply a small amount of mild leather cleaner onto another damp cloth and gently rub the steering wheel in circular motions.
- Be sure not to use too much cleaner, which can damage the leather or leave residue behind.
- Use a dry cloth to wipe away any excess moisture.
Consider using a protective conditioner designed specifically for car interiors to keep your leather steering wheel looking its best. This will help prevent future buildup and keep your steering wheel looking shiny and new for years. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning or conditioning your leather steering wheel to avoid causing any damage.
How To Clean Alcantara Steering Wheel?
Alcantara is a delicate fabric that requires special attention when it comes to cleaning.
- Make sure your hands are clean before touching the steering wheel.
- Use a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth to gently remove any loose dirt or dust from the surface of the Alcantara.
- Once you’ve removed any loose debris, mix a small amount of mild soap with warm water in a bowl.
- Dip your cloth or brush into the solution and gently scrub the surface of the steering wheel in circular motions.
- Be careful not to apply too much pressure, damaging the material.
- After cleaning, use a separate damp cloth to remove excess soap suds.
- Allow your steering wheel to air dry completely before using it again.
Avoid using heat sources like hair dryers or leaving your car in direct sunlight, as this can cause damage to both the Alcantara and other parts of your car’s interior.
How To Clean a Plastic or Rubber Steering Wheel?
- Remove any debris or dust using a soft-bristled brush. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any loose particles.
- Dampen a microfiber cloth with warm water and add mild dish soap.
- Gently scrub the surface of the steering wheel with the cloth, ensuring not to soak too much in the water.
- Once done, rinse the soap residue with another dampened cloth and dry the steering wheel using a clean towel.
You can also use specialized cleaners for plastic and rubber surfaces, like dashboard cleaners that come in spray bottles. Spray the product onto a microfiber cloth and wipe the surface until clean. Always remember that harsh chemicals like bleach or alcohol should not be used as they can damage your steering wheel’s material over time.
Why is a steering wheel sticky?
Dirty Hands:
Eating while driving or touching the steering wheel with greasy hands leaves behind oils and residue on the surface. Over time, these oils can build up and make the steering wheel feel sticky. Additionally, if we sweat or touch our faces while driving, this can also contribute to a sticky feeling.
Exposure To Sunlight:
Another factor that can cause a sticky steering wheel is exposure to sunlight. When left in direct sunlight for extended periods, the heat from the sun can cause oils and other substances on the surface of the steering wheel to melt and become tacky.
Leather Has Been Over-Conditioned
Over-conditioning of leather material is a common problem that causes it to become sticky, oily, and unpleasant to the touch. This situation occurs when too much conditioner or oil is applied to the leather surface beyond what it needs.
Not Real Leather:
One common culprit is using faux leather in the car’s interior. Not real leather is often used as a more affordable option, but it tends to deteriorate over time and become sticky.
Heat And Humidity:
Heat and humidity can also contribute to a sticky steering wheel. When exposed to high temperatures, not real leather can break down and release oils that make it tacky. And in humid conditions, moisture can accumulate on the material’s surface, making it even stickier.
Aging Leather
As time passes, the leather on your steering wheel will age and become more susceptible to drying out. As a result, it loses its natural oils and flexibility, leading to cracks that trap dirt and debris. This buildup of grime can cause the surface of your steering wheel to feel tacky or sticky.
Adhesive Seeping Through
One possible cause of this problem is adhesive seeping from the dashboard or other components. This can happen over time as the heat and pressure of driving cause the adhesive to break down and migrate.
Why Is The Center Of My Steering Wheel Sticky?
A sticky steering wheel is often caused by a buildup of grime and oils from the driver’s hands. Over time, sweat, lotion, and other substances can accumulate on the surface of the steering wheel and create an unpleasant sticky sensation.
Can You Use A Magic Eraser On A Steering Wheel?
Magic erasers are known for removing tough stains from surfaces without damaging them. However, you must be cautious when using a magic eraser on a steering wheel. While they can remove stubborn grime, they may also damage the finish of your steering wheel over time.
Before attempting to clean your steering wheel with a magic eraser, test it out on an inconspicuous spot first. If no damage occurs after rubbing gently, you may proceed cautiously and use the magic eraser on the sticky areas only. Rinse thoroughly afterward and apply conditioner or protectant afterward for best results.
Can You Use Clorox Wipes On The Leather Steering Wheel?
Clorox wipes may not be the best option when cleaning a sticky leather steering wheel. While they can effectively remove dirt and grime from hard surfaces, the harsh chemicals in these wipes can damage and dry out leather.
Conclusion
Cleaning a sticky steering wheel is essential for your vehicle’s aesthetic and function. A sticky steering wheel can make it difficult to grip and control the car, risking accidents on the road. But with simple steps like wiping down with soap and water or using specialized cleaning products, you can restore your steering wheel’s smoothness and grip.
