Transforming a dirty car into a sparkling clean ride doesn’t require expensive tricks or specialized tools. In fact, most of what you need is probably already at home, making it accessible to anyone. This article will share 13 clever car cleaning tips to make your vehicle look and smell like new; you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to achieve a showroom shine without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking to keep one or multiple cars fresh and clean, these genius tips are sure to impress.
So, what’s holding you back? Dive in and discover the secrets to a spotless car, then share your own favorite cleaning hacks below.
Use Toothpaste to Clean Headlights
Brighten up your headlights by leveraging the power of toothpaste. A simple yet effective method to banish foggy yellow-ness. To do this, take a damp sponge and apply a small amount of regular toothpaste. Gently rub it onto your headlights in a circular motion, allowing the abrasive texture to work its magic and remove dirt and grime. Once you’ve covered the entire surface, rinse with tap water and dry with a towel. Voila!
Your headlights should now be looking clearer than ever, making them shine like new. This spring cleaning hack is one of the most useful tips to get your car sparkling clean.
Use Soda to Remove Corrosion
When spotting corrosion on your car’s battery terminals, muffler, or other exposed areas, you can leverage the properties of soda to rectify the issue. Simply pour some soda over the affected area, allowing it to sit for a few minutes. Subsequently, employ a wire brush to scrub away the corrosion or rinse with water. The acidity in the soda will aid in breaking down and dissolving the rust, ultimately leaving your battery terminals clean and operational.
Wash Your Car Accessories in a Dishwasher
Imagine being able to effortlessly sanitize and clean your car’s accessories with a simple load into your dishwasher? Yes, it’s true – items like cup holders, floor mats, and hubcaps can be safely washed in this appliance, leaving them sparkling and free of dirt and grime. To make the most of this hack, start by removing any loose debris from the surface of the accessories before placing them in the dishwasher.
However, if you’re using an older or temperamental dishwayer, it’s best to exercise caution and not overload the machine with too many accessories at once. This clever trick is a game-changer for anyone looking to simplify their car maintenance routine and achieve a showroom shine without breaking a sweat.
Use Shower Caddies
Transforming shower caddies into automobile organizers is a game-changer. By repurposing these handy storage units, you can maintain a clutter-free driving experience and effortlessly locate the items you need on the go. Initially designed to accommodate extra cup holders for public use, the various sizes of caddies now ensure that any beverage size can be neatly contained during your drive. Building upon this concept, we’ve introduced new baskets to cater to diverse needs.
This clever hack has revolutionized our car trips by eliminating the time-consumroming search for chargers or other miscellaneous items. With this lazy girl cleaning trick, you’ll not only save precious moments but also enjoy a more organized and stress-free driving experience.
Clean Your Leather with Coconut Oil
When it comes to maintaining the beauty of leather car seats, many people overlook a simple yet effective solution: coconut oil. By applying a small amount of this natural wonder to a clean cloth and gently massaging it into the leather, you can effortlessly remove dirt and grime while simultaneously conditioning the material. This leaves your seats feeling soft and supple, just like new.
Before embarking on this DIY adventure, however, be sure to conduct a spot test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure the coconut oil doesn’t cause any unexpected discoloration or damage.
Shine Up Your Car
To achieve a showroom shine without breaking the bank, combine equal parts of water, white vinegar, and a small amount of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. This solution is perfect for giving your car’s exterior a quick yet thorough cleaning. Simply spray it onto the surface and wipe clean with a microfiber towel, removing dirt and grime in the process.
The acidity in the vinegar helps to break down tough stains, leaving your car’s finish looking glossy and streak-free – all without the need for specialized products or professional equipment.
Clean Your Car With Baking Soda
When it comes to keeping your car’s exterior clean, baking soda is a versatile and gentle solution that can be used to create a mild sanitizing agent. To make this solution, simply mix baking soda with water to form a paste-like consistency. The baking soda works as a gentle abrasive, effectively removing dirt and grime without causing any harm to the car’s surface. In fact, it’s so safe you can use it on paint, glass, and even metal surfaces.
And if you’re looking for more creative ways to clean with baking soda, be sure to check out these additional helpful hacks.
Use the Muffin Cups
Transform your car’s cup holders into tidy and spill-free zones by repurposing muffin cups as liners. Simply place one in the holder, and you’ll have a practical solution that makes cleaning up messes a breeze. Plus, it’s an easy way to keep your cup holders looking like new. You can even get creative with seasonal designs or opt for eco-friendly silicone alternatives.
Make Your Own Tissue Dispenser
To create a convenient and accessible tissue dispenser for your vehicle, start by repurposing an empty coffee cup. This humble vessel can be transformed into a functional holder with a simple modification: create an opening that allows tissues to be easily pulled through. This solution offers the added benefits of keeping your car’s interior tidy and providing quick access to tissues when you need them most.
For those seeking an eco-friendly option, these cups provide a sustainable alternative for containing tissues.
Use a Dry Microfiber Towel instead of a Regular Towel
Achieving a flawless shine on your vehicle’s exterior can be effortlessly achieved with the use of microfiber towels. These ultra-absorbent cloths are designed to provide a gentle touch, meticulously removing dirt and grime without leaving behind any unsightly streaks or scratches. Furthermore, their reusable nature allows for multiple uses after being washed and cleaned, making them an eco-conscious alternative that aligns perfectly with the pursuit of a sustainable lifestyle.
Make Your Car Smell Amazing
Elevate your car’s ambiance by crafting a DIY air freshener infused with the sweet aromas of orange blossom water or rose water. To begin, submerge clothespins in either scented solution for a maximum of 10 minutes to allow the fragrance to absorb. Afterward, carefully remove and permit the pins to dry thoroughly. Once dry, place them strategically within your vehicle’s vents to enjoy a prolonged and pleasant scent that will leave you feeling refreshed.
Use a DIY Spray
Craft your own air freshener spray using a blend of natural ingredients, including salt, alcohol, and your preferred essential oils. Start by combining equal parts of alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture, followed by a few drops of your chosen essential oil for a subtle scent. For an extra boost of odor-fighting power, stir in a teaspoon of vinegar before shaking the bottle well to combine.
The result is a custom air freshener that’s free from harsh chemicals and tailored to your unique preferences.
Use Charcoal to Eliminate Car Odors
When it comes to eliminating unpleasant smells in your car, charcoal is a natural odor absorber that can be harnessed to great effect. Simply place a few pieces of charcoal from this pack into a porous bag or container and let them work their magic overnight. As the charcoal absorbs any lingering odors, your car will be left smelling fresh and clean. To maintain optimal effectiveness, be sure to replace the charcoal every few months.