Car Cleaning Without the Nasties: How to Naturally Spruce Up Your Wheels

Why Your Car Deserves a Non-tox Glow-Up

We’ve all been there—suddenly realising your car looks more like a travelling rubbish bin than a sleek ride. It's not just about crumbs and wrappers anymore; it's like a mini ecosystem in there.

While you might be tempted to leave it as a modern art piece titled "Life on the Go," it's probably time for a serious car cleaning session. And no, I’m not talking about just a quick rinse at the petrol station car wash. 

We’re going all-natural and giving it the royal treatment it deserves. Your car is your trusty sidekick, taking you on adventures, helping with the grocery hauls, and being there for those late-night drive-thru runs. But just like us, it needs a bit of pampering now and then.

So why not give it a natural, eco-friendly makeover? We’re talking about methods that aren't going to release toxic VOCs into your air space which makes it better for your health and everyone you're ferrying around. Natural cleaners are also kind to your car’s paint to keep it looking its best. What's more, when we stop using harsh chemicals we are voting for Mother nature & where it ends up after going down the drain or onto your grass—this is a real bonus for the environment. Plus, you'll get that satisfying feeling of driving around in a car that doesn't look like it’s been through a food fight. 

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s dive in and make your car sparkle inside and out.

How to Clean the Interior of Your Car

Step 1: Vacuum Like a Pro

First things first, let’s give your car a good vacuum. A paint brush you'd find in a art store (or similar) is a great tool to flick any crumbs and dirt out of those hard to reach spots like the tracks in which your car seats sit on.

Go to town on those seats, floors, and all the little nooks and crannies where crumbs love to hide. It’s like a mini spa day for your car—minus the cucumber slices.

Step 2: Tackle Upholstery Stains

Seat covers and mats looking a little rough? Spot clean them with soapy water or better yet, give them a scrub with Figgy Bar Soap.

If you’ve got a Bissell Spot Cleaner handy, add 1-2 teaspoons of Home Cleaning Castile Soap to the 1L tank and lightly clean the fabric - Check out our Bissell blog for more information on how to clean with a Bissell Spot Cleaner. Remember, we’re cleaning here, not giving it a bath—so don’t soak the fabric too much.

If your seat covers are removable, now’s the time to strip them off (not in that way, though). Wash them in cool to warm water with some laundry powder. We're aiming to avoid any awkward shrinkage incidents, so if you're feeling unsure about the washing machine, a gentle hand wash is the way to go.

Step 3: Cleaning Leather Seats

Leather seats need a bit of extra love. Mix 1 teaspoon of Castile soap in a spray bottle filled with warm water and shake it up. But before you get too excited, do a spot test on a hidden area to make sure it doesn't discolour the leather.

Spray the cleaner onto a soft cloth (not directly onto the leather) and gently rub in circular motions. Focus on those extra grimy spots, but remember, a light touch is key.

After cleaning, wipe away any excess cleaner with a dry cloth and let the leather air dry naturally.

Step 4: Freshen Up the Dashboard and Hard Surfaces

Time to give your dashboard and other hard surfaces a little shine. Use Everyday Spray and a damp cloth, and get into all the little crevices. Spray the cloth first—especially around the electronics—to avoid any unwanted water adventures.

Step 5: Clear Up the Glass

For streak-free windows, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Spray on the glass and wipe down with a lint free cloth, letting your windows sparkle like they’re fresh off the lot. If you find your windows are actually really grimy—honestly there is no judgement here—give them a soapy wash first. This will remove the dirt and grime, so the vinegar spray can be used as a second pass to bring out the streak-free finish. 

How to Clean the Exterior of Your Car

Now that the inside is looking fab, let's tackle the outside.

Quick heads-up Soap + Concrete

true soaps like Castile Soap can react with minerals hanging out in the environment, leaving behind a harmless but stubborn white-ish film—nobody needs that on their driveway! This white film is actually the soap mixing with calcium in the concrete, called efflorescence. If you want to avoid those pesky soap marks, park your car on the grass. No grass? No problem! Just make sure to really rinse down your concrete when washing. And if the marks still show up, a quick vinegar wash with a brush will take care of it. Now, back to business.

Step 1: Rinse and Lather

Start by giving your car a good rinse to blast off loose dirt and grime. Then, mix one tablespoon of Castile soap in a bucket of warm water. Grab a soft cloth and wash your car from top to bottom.

Step 2: Rinse and Dry

After washing, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Then, use a soft cloth to dry the car, avoiding water spots - Figgy Eco Cloth works well here or a Chamois.

Why Clean with Natural Products?

They’re biodegradable and non-toxic, so you’re not sending nasty chemicals down the drain. Plus, they’re gentler on your skin and won’t trigger any unwanted coughing fits from strong fumes. And because they're gentle on the paint, they help keep your car looking fresh and new for longer. It's a win-win all around!

Why It's Important to Regularly Clean Your Car

You might be thinking, "Is it really that important to clean my car?" Yes, it is! Regular cleaning keeps your paint job intact, helping maintain its value. It also prevents corrosion by washing away salt and grime that could lead to rust. Plus, a clean car equals better visibility, which is crucial for safe driving. And let’s not forget about the interior—keeping it clean reduces germs and bacteria, making it a healthier space for you and your passengers.

Tips for Keeping Your Car Clean

• Regular Cleaning Schedule: Set a reminder to give your car a good clean regularly. It’s easier to tackle a bit of dirt than a whole mountain of it.
• Use Seat Covers and Floor Mats: They're your best friends when it comes to protecting the interior. Plus, they can be removed and cleaned easily.
• Keep Rubbish Bags Handy: A small rubbish bag in the car can be a lifesaver. It helps prevent clutter and keeps everything looking neat.
• Quick Wipe Downs: Keep a soft cloth handy for quick wipe downs of the dashboard and surfaces. It’s an easy way to keep dust and spills under control.
• When arriving home: Take two items out of your car each time you arrive home avoiding clutter or rubbish piling up.

And there you have it! By embracing these natural cleaning methods, you’re doing your car and the environment a favour. So go ahead, show your car some love, and keep it looking and feeling its best with these simple, natural cleaning tips.

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