The Car Care Products you need for Professional Results
Drawing from years of experience and a proven process, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the essential techniques and detailing products needed for a flawless interior. Whether you’re a professional detailer or a car enthusiast, this article will show you how to get professional interior detailing results without breaking the bank.
Step 1: Blow Out and Vacuum Thoroughly
The first step in any interior detail is a comprehensive blow-out and vacuum session with a good quality vacuum with attachments and strong suction. Start by removing the floor mats and blow out all the dirt, crumbs, pet hair, and debris from every crevice. Tip: Begin in the trunk and work your way forward to the front, leaving the drivers seat for last - just in case the vehicle needs to be moved.
Note: If you don't have an air compressor, you can use compressed canned air.
Step 2: Clean Interior Surfaces
Next, it’s time to clean all interior surfaces, the dashboard, steering wheel, instrument panel, gauges, and air vents. Use Falcon Blue All-Purpose Cleaner diluted 30:1 for general interior cleaning, or 15:1 for tougher grime.
Tip: Block the windshield from direct sunlight by draping a towel over the outside surface to keep the interior cooler and prevent streaks caused by cleaner drying too fast.
Spray some all-purpose cleaner onto an orange towel or soft brush to agitate and loosen the dirt. Thoroghly clean one section at a time, working from back to front. Finish by wiping and polishing with a clean yellow towel.
Touchscreens and displays are delicate and easy to damage. Use a clean white cloth sprayed lightly with Anti-Static Showroom Shine (never spray directly onto the surface) and gently wipe fingerprints away. Follow with the clean side of the white towel, polishing to a clear and shiny finish.
Leather seats in vehicles older than 5 years should be cleaned, conditioned, and protected with products made specifically for that purpose.
Step 3: Floor Mats, Fabric, and Carpet Cleaning
Fabric seats, carpets, and floor mats require more attention to detail, especially when dealing with stubborn stains or pet hair.
For heavy stains, start by pretreating with an enzyme spot and stain remover like Falcon Blue. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the stains.
Use a carpet shampoo such as Universal Sanitize along with a carpet brush and agitate the surface to lift dirt and stains. Use more foam than solution to avoid over-wetting and long drying times.
Finally, wipe or vacuum the carpet. Use a carpet extractor on areas that are more than just damp to avoid potential mold, mildew and odors.
Step 4: Protectants, Dressing and Finishing Touches
Protectants and dressings bring life back to rubber, vinyl, and plastic surfaces. Start with a silicone-based instant shine spray for hard-to-reach areas like buttons, vents, and cup holders. Be careful not to spray pedals or areas where a slippery surface would be dangerous.
Next, apply protectant evenly using an applicator to all vinyl, rubber, and plastic parts like the dashboard, door panels, and center console. After applying, use a clean yellow microfiber towel to buff the surfaces, removing any excess product and ensuring a natural, matte finish without streaks.
Dressing enhances the interior’s appearance and protects surfaces but must be done with attention to every detail to avoid streaks or missed spots, which can detract from the overall look.
Step 5: Window Cleaning – The Final Detail
For glass surfaces, use a blue towel with one of these ammonia-free glass cleaners to avoid streaks and damaging window tints. Use a blue towel for both interior and exterior windows and mirrors.
Keep buffing and polishing with Anti-Static Showroom Shine until they are crystal clear.
Conclusion: Interior Detailing: Simplified
Professional interior detailing doesn’t require a mountain of specialized products or thousands of dollars in equipment. By focusing on a handful of versatile, effective products and mastering a straightforward process, you can achieve outstanding results.
With this knowledge, you can start building a professional interior detailing business or simply keep your own vehicles looking showroom fresh without overspending on tools or products.