How to Clean Your Car Naturally

Cleaning your car doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals. By using natural products, you can keep your car spotless while being environmentally conscious. Follow this step-by-step guide for both the interior and exterior of your car.

Materials You’ll Need:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Mild dish soap
• Microfiber cloths
• Soft brush (like an old toothbrush)
• Spray bottle
• Essential oils (like lemon or tea tree) for fragrance
• Vacuum cleaner
• Small bucket
• Squeegee

Step 1: Cleaning the Exterior

1. Rinse the Car: Start by rinsing your car with water to remove loose dirt and dust. If you have a hose with a nozzle, use it to gently spray down the car from top to bottom.
2. Prepare a Natural Cleaning Solution: In a bucket, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water. For added cleaning power, add a splash of white vinegar. Dip a microfiber cloth or sponge into the mixture, and wipe down the car’s surface. Avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent scratching.
3. Clean the Windows: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto your windows and use a microfiber cloth or a squeegee to wipe them clean. This will leave your windows streak-free.
4. Wipe the Tires and Wheels: Spray the vinegar-water solution on the tires and use a brush to scrub off any dirt or grime. Rinse with water to avoid leaving any residue.
5. Rinse and Dry: Rinse the car thoroughly with water, then use a microfiber towel to dry it off. Drying your car prevents water spots and keeps the exterior looking polished.

Step 2: Cleaning the Interior

1. Vacuum First: Remove floor mats and shake out any dirt. Then, use a vacuum to clean the seats, floor, and mats. Pay attention to the crevices where dust and dirt tend to accumulate.
2. Deodorize with Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda on the floor mats and seats, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum it up. Baking soda absorbs odors and leaves the interior smelling fresh.
3. Dashboard, Doors, and Console: Dampen a microfiber cloth with the vinegar-water solution and wipe down all interior surfaces. Avoid excessive moisture to prevent any damage. Use a soft brush to clean small areas, such as around buttons or vents.
4. Clean the Seats: For fabric seats, spot clean any stains with a small amount of diluted dish soap. For leather seats, use a damp cloth with a mild soap mixture, then wipe dry immediately to avoid damage.
5. Add a Fresh Scent: Put a few drops of essential oil on a small cloth or cotton ball and leave it in the car for a natural air freshener.

Step 3: Final Touches

• Polish the Windows: Use the vinegar solution on the interior windows and wipe with a clean microfiber cloth.
• Restore Shine to Surfaces: For a finishing touch, you can add a small amount of olive oil to a cloth and lightly buff plastic or vinyl surfaces. This adds a natural shine without leaving a greasy residue.

With these steps, your car will look and feel refreshed without the use of any harsh chemicals. Regularly cleaning your car this way will help maintain its appearance and prolong its interior and exterior surfaces.