Tips for Keeping Your Car Cleaner for Longer

Use these suggestions to keep your automobile looking good in between washes and waxes.

Sort through and remove trash. For simple trash collection and disposal, keep a tiny trash can or bag inside your car. Every day or at least once a week, clean it out.


Put cup holder liners to use. Get liners to put in the cupholders to prevent spillage and moisture that can cause sticky cup holders. As a do-it-yourself alternative, you can also use silicone cupcake liners. After that, remove and clean as needed.


Keep tissues close at hand. Wipe up spills quickly using wet wipes. Make sure they don’t contain bleach to avoid damaging the interior.


Clear your shoes of dust. Make sure your shoes are clean against the car’s side before getting inside. Eliminating snow, filth, and additional environmental debris can help prevent buildup on your car floor or mats.

Taking Out Stains in a Car
Depending on your lifestyle and where you live, your car may get inside and outside stains that are difficult to remove and need more effort. For a really clean car, learn how to remove stains from your automobile.

Bug stains: For spots or streaks, use a bug stain remover suitable for cars. Give the spray a few minutes to settle. (For optimum results, follow the instructions on the label.)
Tree sap: Use warm, soapy water to remove sap. If the stain has settled and it has been a while, use a microfiber cloth to apply rubbing alcohol to the tree sap stain. Let it stay for 30 to 60 seconds, then wipe it clean.

Gum: For gum on the car’s exterior, use compressed air (or an ice cube) to freeze it, then scrape it off with a plastic card or knife. For gum on the interior, soak a soft cloth in vinegar, rub it onto the gum, and allow it to soak for a few minutes. When the gum balls up, scrape it off.

Coffee or food stains: Soak up any liquid by blotting with a clean, dry cloth. Then, mix one part white vinegar, two parts water, and a few drops of dish soap in a small container and apply to the stain. Scrub the stain then let the cleaning solution sit for about 20 or 30 minutes. Blot the stain with a clean, damp towel until the stain lifts.