Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
Cleaning your car dashboard can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and a few easy steps, your car dashboard looks as good as new. Before beginning any cleaning process on your car dashboard, check for any broken parts or pieces that may need repair. Once this has been done, it’s time to start the actual cleaning process.
Cleaning Car Dashboard
You Will Need
- Vacuum Cleaner – to remove any surface dust and debris
- Soft Cloths – for polishing and wiping off dirt
- Mild Detergent Or Car Cleaning Products – to ensure the best results when cleaning
- Microfiber Towel – for drying after each step of cleaning
- Glass Cleaner – for those hard-to-reach spots
Instruction
Wipe The Trash Out: Start by gently removing any obvious debris, such as bits of food or other trash. Using a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment can help to safely remove dirt and dust that may have settled into the cracks and crevices of your car dashboard.
Apply Cleaning Solution: Once the surface is free of debris, apply a mild detergent or car cleaning solution to the dashboard. Gently rub the solution on the surface using a soft cloth or microfiber towel until it is evenly covered.
Rinse The Solution: Rinse the solution off your dashboard using a wet microfiber towel. Make sure to get rid of any excess solution that may still be lingering in the cracks and crevices of the dashboard.
Dry The Dashboard: Use a dry microfiber towel to dry the dashboard completely. This will help prevent any moisture from being trapped and causing mold growth.
Polish To Finish: Finally, apply a car cleaning polish to the dashboard using a soft cloth to leave your dashboard looking shiny.
Clean your infotainment screen: Using a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth, gently wipe the surface of your infotainment screen. Be sure to avoid any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as this can cause damage to the delicate touch display.
Apply a protective coating to the infotainment screen, such as Screen Shine or Protectant. This helps protect the screen from future scratches and dust accumulation.
What Are Other Polish Options?
- Natural Oils, Such As Coconut And Olive Oil
- Mineral Oil
- Baby Oil
- Petroleum Jelly
Types Of Dashboard
Leather Dashboard: Leather dashboards are often seen in luxury cars. They require special care to keep them looking their best and prevent cracking or fading.
Vinyl Dashboard: Vinyl dashboards are most commonly used in mid-priced vehicles. They are durable but can be damaged by harsh cleaners or abrasive tools.
Cloth Dashboard: Cloth dashboards are seen in budget vehicles. They require special care to prevent stains or fade from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Wood Dashboard: Wood dashboards can add a unique look to your car but require careful cleaning and maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Metal Dashboard: Metal dashboards are seen in some performance cars. They require special care to keep them looking shiny and new.
The Importance Of Polishing Your Interior Dashboard
Keeps Your Dash Looking New: Regularly polishing your interior dashboard with a good quality wax will help keep it looking like it just came off the showroom floor. Plus, minor scratches and scuffs can be buffed out for good measure.
Protects Against UV Rays: Neglected dashboards can become cracked and fade from exposure to the sun’s UV rays. Regularly polishing your dash with wax will create an extra layer of protection against these damaging rays.
Protects Against Dirt And Dust: Even if you don’t drive your car often, dust and debris will likely settle on your dash. A wax coating will help repel dirt and dust from settling in the cracks and crevices of your dashboard.
Keeps It Looking Clean: Even if you keep your car spotless, a neglected interior can make it look like the rest of the vehicle isn’t cared for. Keeping your dashboard clean will give the impression that you take the utmost care in maintaining your car.
Homemade Car Dashboard Cleaner Hacks
White Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can clean and shine the dashboard.
Baking Soda: Baking soda is excellent for cleaning and polishing the dashboard without scratching or damaging the surface.
Lemon Juice: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help remove dirt and grime from the dashboard.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a considerable alternative to store-bought products; it can help polish and protect the dashboard.
Toothpaste: Toothpaste effectively removes dirt, dust, and stains from your car dashboard.
Water: Water is the simplest and most effective way of cleaning your dashboard. Dampen a cloth with water and wipe away surface dirt and grime.
Alcohol: Alcohol can be used to deep clean the dashboard; it helps remove grease and oil buildup that regular cleaners may not be able to get rid of.
Plastic Polish: Plastic polish is designed to clean and protect plastic surfaces like the car dashboard. It can help restore shine and make it look brand new.
Benefits Of Keeping Your Car Dashboard Clean
Helps Maintain The Longevity Of Your Car: Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your dashboard looking its best and help protect against unnecessary wear and tear.
Reduces Dust Buildup: Dust, dirt, and grime can build up over time, making your dashboard look dull and unattractive. Cleaning will help keep this buildup to a minimum.
Prevents Allergens: Keeping your dashboard clean will help reduce allergens and pollutants irritating you when driving.
Helps Improve Visibility: Cleaning your car dashboard helps ensure all lights, indicators, and gauges are visible while driving.
Enhances The Interior Appearance Of Your Car: Regularly cleaning your dashboard will help keep it looking its best, improving the overall interior appearance of your vehicle.
Keeps You And Your Passengers Safe: A clean and clear dashboard helps ensure all buttons, switches, knobs, and dials are easily seen and accessible for use. This allows for a safer driving experience for all passengers.
Tips Or Tricks For Cleaning A Car Dashboard
- Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on the surface of your dashboard.
- Always test any product you plan to use in an inconspicuous area first.
- Gently rub oil into leather surfaces to restore shine and condition the material.
- Avoid using paper towels or other abrasive materials to clean your car dashboard.
- Apply protectant to finished surfaces to keep them looking their best and to help protect against future damage.
- Clean your dashboard in a well-ventilated area to prevent breathing in toxic chemicals or fumes.
FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of Using Oil?
Oil is a great way to polish and protect your dashboard. It creates a protective layer that helps keep dirt, dust, and grime from building up on the surface of your dashboard.
How Often Should I Clean My Dashboard?
It is recommended that you clean your dashboard at least once a month.
How Can You Easily Keep Your Dashboard Organized and Spotless?
- Vacuum regularly
- Use cleaning products sparingly
- Use a soft cloth
- Use glass cleaner for more stubborn stains
- Condition the dashboard regularly
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads on your dashboard
- Do not use paper towels to clean the dashboard, as they can scratch and damage it
- Protect the dashboard from direct sunlight and high temperatures
Is It Safe To Clean My Car’S Plastic Dashboard With Diesel?
No, cleaning a car’s plastic dashboard with diesel is not recommended. Diesel can be highly corrosive and may damage the surface of the plastic. It is best to use a cleaning product specifically designed for use on car dashboards rather than diesel or other harsh chemicals.
Are Leather, Plastic, Vinyl, And Rubber Dashboard Cleaners Interchangeable?
No, leather, plastic, vinyl, and rubber cleaners are not interchangeable. Each type of material requires its specific cleaner to ensure the best results without causing damage.
What Is A Dashboard Protectant?
A dashboard protectant is a product specifically designed to protect your car’s dashboard from UV damage, dust, dirt, and grime buildup. It helps restore shine and luster while protecting against future damage.
How to Clean Your Gauge Cluster?
1. Use a damp cloth to wipe off dust and dirt on your gauge cluster.
2. Then, gently scrub the surface of the gauge cluster using a soft-bristled brush or lint-free cloth.
3. Use a mild car dashboard cleaner and warm water to clean more difficult stains.
4. Apply a protectant such as Screen Shine or Protectant to keep the gauge cluster looking and functioning at its best.
How Can I Eliminate All The Sticky Residue From A Car Dash?
1. Start using a microfiber cloth to remove loose dirt and dust from the dashboard.
2. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean cloth and gently rub it on the affected area until all residue is gone.
3. Finish with a soft dry cloth to buff out any remaining alcohol residue.
Conclusion
It’s also important to regularly check all parts of the dash for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or fading. If you notice any damage, repair it promptly to avoid further damage. A little effort goes a long way when it comes to keeping your car’s dashboard looking its best. With some essential cleaning tools and the right cleaners, you can keep your vehicle looking good and functioning properly for years to come.
