How to Clean Car Door Panels After Winter
Winter grime doesn’t just hit your carpets and mats — it wrecks your door panels too. Here’s how to deep clean and protect them in minutes.
Why Winter Wrecks Door Panels
Your car’s interior door panels are exposed to wet jackets, salt-covered hands, slush-stained boots, and constant temperature swings. Over time, that combo can cause stains, streaks, and even cracking.
What You’ll Need:
Step-by-Step Door Panel Reset
Step 1: Pre-Spray with Complete Cabin Cleaner
Lightly mist the door panel with Complete Cabin Cleaner. Focus on areas near handles, speaker grilles, and cup holder spots where salt and moisture collect.
Step 2: Scrub with the Scrub Buddy Pad
Gently agitate textured or rubberized sections using the Scrub Buddy Pad. Avoid using it on glossy plastic or leather inserts — just stick to textured surfaces.
Step 3: Wipe Clean with a Microfiber
Use an Everyday Microfiber Towel to remove loosened dirt, grime, and cleaner. Flip to a dry section to pick up any moisture.
Step 4: Dress and Protect
Apply All Dressed Up diluted 4:1 to restore a factory-matte look and add UV protection. Spray it onto a foam applicator or microfiber, not directly onto the panel.
Bonus Tip: Don’t Forget the Rear Doors
Rear door panels usually get hit harder with slush from boots and kids climbing in/out. Give them equal attention to prevent staining and material breakdown.
Related Posts
- Deep Clean Your Car Interior After Winter
- Best Products to Reset Interior After Winter
- Clean and Condition Leather Seats After Winter
FAQs
Can I use Scrub Buddy Pads on leather?
No — the pads are designed for textured plastic and rubber only. Use a microfiber towel on leather surfaces.
Will All Dressed Up leave a greasy or shiny finish?
Not at all. When diluted 4:1, it leaves a clean, dry-to-the-touch matte finish just like OEM plastic.
How often should I clean door panels in winter?
Every 2–4 weeks during the winter season helps prevent salt buildup and water damage.
