While I was out running errands in preparation for spring cleaning, I popped over to Walmart to grab everything I needed for cleaning, including Fabuloso® all purpose cleaner. I found it on a special end cap near the cleaning supplies. I picked up the Lavender Fabuloso® because lavender is a calming scent and goodness knows, that this busy mama could use a calming environment while driving (and driving and driving) and waiting (and waiting and waiting) at sports practices. I also brought home the Limited Edition Spring Bloom Fabuloso® cleaner because it has a fresh, spring-like scent and I’m so very happy that spring is finally here!
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Step 1 – Vacuum the dashboard, doors, console and any other surfaces other than the upholstery and carpet
I use the soft brush attachment on the vacuum to remove all dust and debris. I’m careful to look in crevices where dust or other surprises maybe hiding.
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Step 2 – Use all purpose cleaner to wipe down plastic or metal surfaces
I add a tsp of all purpose cleaner to a large bowl of water. I also have a second bowl of water for rinsing. I use a cloth to wipe every surface down with cleaner and then wipe the surfaces well with a second cloth dipped in water. I clean from the top down and leave the door wells for later. I often have to change out the bowls of cleaner and water a couple of times.
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Step 3 – Clean the seats
Vacuum all the upholstery. Use the crevice tool to get down into the back of the seats. Clean up stains with a soft cloth and water. For more stubborn stains, check your car manual for cleaning recommendations.
Step 4 – Vacuum the carpets
Remove the floor mats. I shake them out first and then vacuum them well. Vacuum in one direction first and then vacuum in the other direction to remove all the debris. I often find it helpful to just use the vacuum nozzle without any attachments.
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I then vacuum the carpet inside the car. I like to use the crevice tool to get into hard to reach spots. Here again, I find it most effective to use the vacuum nozzle without any attachments on the carpet.
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I take everything out of the trunk and vacuum it well. I know the trunk is clean when I can see vacuum lines in the carpet (and it makes me very happy). I then return only the necessary items to my trunk (how did all those extra things sneak into the trunk?!)
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After I’ve vacuumed all the carpet, I use my bowl of all purpose cleaner and wipe down the door wells where grease and dirt collect. I rinse these surfaces well with water and then dry them with a paper towel. Taking the extra few minutes to clean this area seems pointless until your daughter’s beautiful prom dress is marred by brushing against her friend’s car door (ask how I know!).
Step 5 – Clean the windows and mirrors
I’m always surprised at how much dirt and yuck I wipe off of the inside of the windows and the interior mirrors. I’m ecstatic at how much clearer my windows and visibility are.
Step 6 – Add your own car freshener that costs pennies
Instead of purchasing a car freshener, I just make my own. Start with a repurposed plastic berry container. The smaller berry containers are the perfect size. I use a couple of paper towels and all purpose cleaner. I choose a cleaner with a fresh scent, like the soothing lavender Fabuloso® all purpose cleaner I used to clean my car.
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I simply add a few drops of cleaner to the paper towels, fold them up and place them inside the cleaned berry container. I put the container under the front seat of my car. Voila! My nice clean car will continue to smell clean and fresh for days. When I find that the scent is lessening, I just add a few more drops of fresh smelling cleaner.
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Every time I’ve jumped into my car this week to rush off to another activity, I’ve actually paused for a moment to enjoy my fresh smelling and beautifully clean car. Really.
More spring cleaning ideas:
- My favorite Tips for a Clean Car Interior in No Time by taking advantage of time spent waiting at kids’ sports practices and activities.
- April To Do Checklist – Get your free printable checklist.
- Spring Organizing Tea with Repurposed Items – You can organize your kitchen for free by using repurposed items.
- Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids – Have your children help you clean windows and teach responsibility and have family fun together.
Do you have any favorite tips on how to spring clean your car?
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