Car Cleaning Supplies

Written by Emily McBride (last updated June 13, 2022)

Sometimes cleaning your car is the last thing on your mind. Cleaning the house or doing laundry makes it to most people's to-do lists every week, but cleaning the car is sometimes further down the list. However, keeping the inside of your car clean car can make a much nicer commute, and keeping the outside of your car clean can help it look nicer for longer. The combinations of dust, dirt, and chemicals from emissions can coat your car and gradually eat away at the paint. If you clean your car regularly it will not only look nicer, but it should help the paint last longer as well.

  • Supplies for the inside: Before you even start cleaning your car, use a trash bag to gather up all of your garbage and throw it away. One of the most important supplies to clean the inside of your car is the vacuum. You should vacuum your car regularly, especially if you track in a lot of dirt or mud with your shoes or if you eat in your car frequently. For spots, try spray-on carpet cleaner. Remember to also vacuum under any mats you may have. Use a rag and a vinyl protectant to clean the dashboard and other parts of the interior. Finish off the inside by using window cleaner and paper towels to wash the inside of the windows. You might want to consider using an air freshener to make your car smell better.
  • Supplies for the outside: The most important supply to wash the outside of your car is water. It's best to use a hose to first rinse off your car. Have a bucket full of soapy water and use rags or towels to wash the car. Use car-washing detergent for best results. Some parts, such as the tire and hubcap or the bottom of the car, might benefit from heavy spraying with the hose. After you have thoroughly washed your car, spray it off with the hose again. Use clean, dry towels or a chamois to dry the outside to avoid water spots when you are finished (if you forget this step, it might look like you have not even cleaned your car at all!). Then, use window cleaner and paper towels to wash your windows so that they don't streak.

Following these steps and using the italicized supplies should help your car look new and clean, helping you to enjoy the time you spend inside!

Author Bio

Emily McBride

A senior majoring in English and editing at BYU, Emily hopes to enter the field of professional editing upon graduation. Emily has done humanitarian work in Africa and studied in London. She enjoys blogging, foreign films, and playing the piano. ...

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