How To Clean Car Interior Vinyl?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Cleaning the interior of a car is an important part of maintaining it. Keeping your car’s interior clean not only helps maintain its good looks but can also prevent damage from dirt and grime that can build up over time. One of the materials found inside cars that requires special attention is vinyl, which is used for door panels and other interior parts. The best way to clean car interior vinyl is to use a cloth dampened with a mild cleaner and water solution. Knowing how to effectively clean these areas can help keep your interior looking great and can also extend the life of the material.

Table of Contents

Cleaning Car Interior Vinyl

You Will Need

Vacuum
Vinyl Cleaner
Microfiber Cloth
Water
Soft Brush
Vinyl Protectant

Instructions

Clean Car Interior Vinyl — Things needed for cleaning

Vacuuming: Begin by vacuuming the area of vinyl to get rid of any dirt and debris that may be embedded in the material. Use a soft brush attachment if possible and do not press too hard as this can damage the vinyl.

Cleaning: Mix a solution of mild cleaner and water in a spray bottle, or use a premixed cleaner designed specifically for vinyl. Spray the solution liberally onto the surface and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Wipe away the cleaner using a clean microfiber cloth or sponge wiping in one direction only. Avoid scrubbing too hard as this can scratch the surface of the vinyl.

Using A Soft Brush: If there are any tough stains that need to be removed, use a soft brush and gently work it into the surface. Be careful not to press too hard as this can damage the material.

Thoroughly Clean The Surface Area: Once you have removed the stains, wipe down the entire surface area with a damp cloth to remove any residue from the cleaner. Allow it to air dry completely before moving on.

Protectant: Apply a protectant to help keep it looking its best. A vinyl protectant can help repel dirt, dust, and other substances that can cause staining and damage to the material. Look for one specifically designed for use on cars, as these are usually the safest to use.

Additional Vinyl Cleaning Options For Your Car Interior

Baby Oil: Baby oil can be used to remove tough stains from vinyl surfaces. Simply apply the baby oil to the stained area and allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a soft cloth.

Rubbing Alcohol: Rubbing alcohol can also be used on vinyl surfaces in cars. Apply some rubbing alcohol onto a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the area. This can help remove oils, grease, and other substances that have built up on the surface.

White Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural cleaner and disinfectant that can be used to clean vinyl surfaces. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spray the solution onto the vinyl and wipe away with a clean cloth.

Baking Soda: Baking soda is another mild cleaner that can be used to gently scrub vinyl surfaces. Mix some baking soda with a small amount of water and apply it to the surface using a soft brush. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping it away with a damp cloth.

Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning is a great option for deep-cleaning car interior vinyl. For best results, use distilled or filtered water to avoid mineral deposits from tap water. Be sure to keep the steam away from any plastic pieces as it can warp them over time.

Vinyl Wipes: Vinyl wipes are a great option for quickly and easily cleaning vinyl surfaces. Look for pre-moistened wipes that are specifically designed for use on car interiors as they will be the safest and most effective option.

DIY Cleaner: If you prefer to make your own cleaner, mix two parts of warm water with one part of mild soap or dishwashing liquid in a spray bottle. Spray the cleaner onto the surface and wipe away with a damp cloth or sponge. Do not scrub too hard as this can damage the vinyl.

Interior Pieces Made Of Vinyl

Seat Backs
Armrests
Dashboards
Door Panels
Seats
Consoles

Things To Consider

Always use a soft cloth and gentle detergents to avoid damaging the vinyl.
Spot-clean the vinyl with a damp cloth before attempting to deep-clean it.
Avoid using products containing harsh chemicals or abrasives on the vinyl, as these can strip away its protective coating or cause discoloration.
Test any cleaning product in an inconspicuous spot before applying it to the entire area of vinyl.
Use a vacuum cleaner with soft bristles or upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris from the surface of the vinyl.
For tougher stains, use a damp cloth and an appropriate cleaning agent to clean the surface of the vinyl.
Once you are done cleaning, wipe the area with a dry cloth to remove any residue and help keep it looking new for longer.
Use a vinyl conditioner to protect and preserve the material and prevent premature aging of the vinyl.
Treat your interior car vinyl regularly to keep it looking new and protect it from damage caused by everyday wear and tear.
Remember, when in doubt, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

Fixing Cracks In Vinyl

Once you have removed dirt, dust, and debris from your car’s vinyl surfaces, you may find some cracks or creases that need to be repaired. Before attempting any repairs, make sure that the vinyl is dry.

If the crack is shallow, use a vinyl repair kit with adhesive to fill in the gap.
If the crack is deep, use a vinyl patch to cover the damaged area.
Use a roller or squeegee to press down the adhesive and patching material firmly onto the vinyl surface.
Allow plenty of time for the repair materials to cure before continuing with any other cleaning procedures.
If the crack is still visible after filling and patching, use a vinyl paint pen to color the area. Be sure to match the existing color of your car’s interior for an even look.

It is important to be cautious when attempting any kind of repair with vinyl materials. If you are unsure about how to safely repair the damage, it is best to take your car to a professional. They can assess the damage and provide you with more specialized advice on how to fix it.

FAQs

What’s The Most Effective Way To Remove Stains From Vinyl Car Seats?

Baking soda paste is an effective and gentle way to remove stains from vinyl car seats. Simply mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a small amount of water until it forms a thick paste. Spread the paste directly onto the stain, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe it away with a damp cloth.

What Is The Best Way To Clean Old Vinyl Car Seats?

The best way to clean old vinyl car seats is to vacuum them to remove dust and dirt. You can then use a soft cloth and some vinyl solution to gently wipe away any stains. Scrubbing should be avoided, as it may damage the vinyl. Finally, use a damp cloth to rinse off any remaining dirt and solution.

How Do I Protect Vinyl Car Seats?

To protect your vinyl car seats, you can apply a sealant or conditioner to them every 6-12 months. This will help keep the material from cracking or fading due to sun exposure. Additionally, use a UV protectant spray when leaving the car parked outside for extended periods of time. This will reduce the amount of damage that can be caused by the sun’s UV rays.

Can You Apply Vinyl Film To The Interior Of A Car?

Yes, you can apply vinyl film to the interior of a car. Vinyl film is an easy way to change up the look of your car’s interior without needing to replace the existing material. The vinyl film will not only give the interior of your car a whole new look, but it will also protect against dirt and dust buildup. Be sure to properly measure the area before applying the vinyl film to prevent any air bubbles or wrinkles.

Bottom Line

Cleaning car interior vinyl can be a tough task, but with proper care and maintenance, it can help maintain the look of your car’s interior for years to come. As always, if you are unsure about how to safely repair damaged vinyl, it is best to take your car to a professional for advice. With these tips, you can keep your car’s interior looking and feeling like new.

Conclusion

By properly caring for your car interior vinyl, you can extend the life of the material and keep it looking like new. Be sure to vacuum regularly and use a mild cleaner or vinyl solution if necessary. If there are any cracks or creases in the vinyl, make sure to repair them right away before they become worse. Finally, use a sealant or conditioner to protect the material from fading or cracking due to UV exposure. With these tips, you can ensure that your car’s interior vinyl stays in perfect condition for years to come.

Matthew Lloyd

Matthew Lloyd, a skilled professional in television sound, a passionate car enthusiast, and a dedicated supporter of the Scarlets. With a unique perspective that values individuality, brings their personal touch to everything he do.