Interior Detailing Tips Part 1: The 5 Mistakes You’re Probably Making
When it comes to detailing the inside of your car, it’s easy to get it wrong. From using the wrong products to skipping the basics, even experienced detailers can make mistakes that leave interiors looking worse instead of better. In this first part of our interior detailing series, we’re breaking down the 5 most common mistakes—and how to fix them.
❌ Mistake #1: Using an All-Purpose Cleaner on Every Surface
All-purpose cleaners (APCs) are great for tires and engines—but they’re often too strong for modern car interiors. They can leave residue, streaks, and even dry out plastic or leather surfaces.
✅ The Fix:
Use a purpose-built product like Complete Cabin Cleaner. It’s safe on leather, screens, plastic, vinyl, and trim—and it leaves a clean, matte finish without streaks.
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❌ Mistake #2: Spraying Directly on Surfaces
Spraying directly onto dash panels, screens, or buttons can cause overspray and even electrical issues if the product seeps into cracks.
✅ The Fix:
Always spray your cleaner directly onto a microfiber towel, then wipe the surface. For heavy buildup, spray the towel first—then a light mist on the surface if needed.
❌ Mistake #3: Forgetting Hidden Areas
Most people wipe the dash and door panels and call it a day. But crumbs, grime, and bacteria hide in less obvious places—like under seats, behind seatbelts, and inside cup holders or air vents.
✅ The Fix:
Use a small detailing brush or compressed air to reach tight spaces, and don’t forget to slide the seats all the way forward and back during the process.
❌ Mistake #4: Leaving Product Residue on Screens
Using too much cleaner or a towel that’s too wet can leave streaks or hazing—especially on glossy infotainment screens.
✅ The Fix:
Use a damp (not soaked) microfiber towel, and follow up immediately with a dry towel to level off any excess. Avoid alcohol-based glass cleaners on screens.
❌ Mistake #5: Using Glossy Dressings on Dashboards
Shiny dashboards might look clean—but they cause glare and can attract dust like a magnet. Worse, greasy products can stain clothing over time.
✅ The Fix:
Stick to matte-finish products like Complete Cabin Cleaner. It enhances the surface without the fake “wet” look, and it doesn’t leave behind a sticky mess.
Conclusion
A great interior detail is all about using the right product in the right way. Avoiding these 5 common mistakes will instantly improve your results—and protect the materials inside your car for the long haul. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Interior Detailing Tips series, where we’ll dive deeper into cleaning leather, cloth, and dashboards like a pro.
