Interior Detailing Mistakes That Ruin Your Finish

Jimbo Balaam on

Avoid these interior detailing mistakes that even pros make. From glossy finishes to damaged screens, here’s how to keep your interior looking perfect.

Interior Detailing Mistakes That Ruin Your Finish
Top Interior Detailing Mistakes That Ruin Your Finish

Interior Detailing Mistakes That Ruin Your Finish

Even experienced detailers make these mistakes. Avoid them and your interior will stay cleaner, longer—with a finish that looks like it just came from the factory.

TL;DR: Don’t use glossy dressings, avoid soaking fabrics, stop using APCs on everything, use the right towels, and always let surfaces dry fully before reinstalling floor mats or gear.

1. Using Glossy Dressings on Interior Plastics

Glossy products can make your interior look cheap, greasy, and attract dust. Use a water-based product like All Dressed Up for a clean matte, OEM-style finish.

2. Over-Saturating Seats or Floor Mats

Flooding your fabric seats or floor mats with cleaner leads to musty smells and potential mold. Instead, use a light spray of Complete Cabin Cleaner and a Scrub Buddy Pad to break up stains without soaking.

3. Using APC on Everything

All-purpose cleaners (APCs) are too strong for many modern materials and can damage interior trim or leave streaks. Use a product specifically designed for interiors, like Complete Cabin Cleaner, which cleans without residue or gloss.

4. Forgetting to Move Seats Forward and Backward

You’d be shocked at what hides under your seats. Always move seats forward and backward to clean underneath with a microfiber towel like the Everyday Microfiber Towel.

5. Using the Wrong Towels

Abrasive or linty towels can scratch glossy trim and screens. Use ultra-soft, lint-free towels like the Softer Than Soft Towels for sensitive surfaces like piano black or nav screens.

6. Not Letting Surfaces Fully Dry

If you reinstall floor mats or close up a damp car, you’re asking for odors and mildew. Use your microfiber towels to dry surfaces and let airflow do the rest.

7. Spraying Cleaner Directly on Screens

Never spray cleaner directly on touchscreens or electronics. Instead, spray onto your towel first, then gently wipe.

Stay Mistake-Free With These Resources:

Is it safe to use APC on leather or dashboards?

No. APCs can dry out or discolor leather and modern dash materials. Use a cleaner formulated for interiors like Complete Cabin Cleaner.

How do I prevent interior streaks?

Use high-quality microfiber towels and avoid overusing product. Always buff after cleaning to remove any remaining film.