10 Tips That Will Make Your Car the Cleanest it’s Ever Been

If your car collects dust, dirt, and clutter even worse than your garage does, maybe it’s time for a new cleaning routine. Here are 10 car cleaning hacks that will help save you some embarrassment the next time you carpool.

1. Vent Dust

Your vents probably tend to get really dusty. Instead of trying to stick your fingers in there, use one of those disposable, foam craft brushes. Soak it in some all-purpose cleaner first.

2. Grimy Glass

You might not have thought to try this, but baby wipes make great little cleaners for your windows and windshield. If you have little kids, you probably already have some in your car. Bonus!

3. The Dash

If your car is like mine, the dashboard gets neglected and usually seems dry. To bring it back to life, rub it with Vaseline. It really works!

4. Seats Smelling Off?

To absorb odors, sprinkle your car’s fabric seats and upholstery with baking soda, let it rest a while, the vacuum.

5. Unstick Bumper Stickers

There are several ways to remove bumper stickers, including boiling water, WD-40, and a hair dryer.

6. Protect Your Cup Holders

My cup holders get sticky and gross — do yours? Try keeping some silicone muffin liners in your cup holders, and the only thing you’ll have to do is throw them in the dishwasher as needed.

7. Freshen Your Air Conditioner

If you’ve got a musty or otherwise unpleasant odor coming from your A/C or vents, chances are it has to do with your air filter or vent system. Either way, here’s how to fix it.

8. Leave Lint Behind

If you wash your car yourself, you’ll end up with lint with many types of rags or sponges. Instead, use a microfiber mitt that won’t scratch or leave anything else behind.

9. Clean the Cracks

Got crumbs, dust, and other stuff in the seams of your upholstery? Grab an old toothbrush and get too work.

10. Make Tires Shine

Simple Green cleaner is a treatment a lot of car enthusiasts swear by for making your tires and wheels shine again.