Cleaning your car seats may seem like an unfamiliar and tricky thing to do. Regularly cleaning your car seats is important, not only because of the obvious hygienic reasons, but also to maintain the condition of the seats and improve the appearance of them. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to effectively clean your car seats using the right products, leaving them looking new again, whether you have fabric, leather, or vinyl seats.
How to Clean Car Seats
Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly
The first step to cleaning your seat is to remove the loose and trapped dirt. This is done by using a vacuum machine and a brush. Brush the seats and headrests while vacuuming to loosen the dirt, dust and debris on the surface. If available to you, use a brush attachment on the vacuum and the thinnest nozzle to get into the small crevices.
Vacuum Car Seats
Step 2: Identify The Material of Your Seats
The approach taken when cleaning your car's seats varies, depending on the material of the seats. It is important to know what material your seats are made of before proceeding with cleaning them. Certain products and methods are designed for specific materials, and using the incorrect product may be harmful to your seats. If you are uncertain about what material your seats are made of; check your car’s manual for this information.
Leather Material Seat
Step 3: Cleaning the Seats
i. Cleaning Fabric Seats
For fabric seats, there are many products you can use. We would suggest the following: X2 Fabrics and Leather by Innovacar and Pulitutto by Fra-Ber. For people with experience in interior cleaning, we would recommend using the X2 Fabrics and Leather. Those with less to no experience should use Pulitutto. It is a similar process when it comes to using both these products, however with Pulitutto; you use it as is, and with X2 Fabrics and Leather; a foamer bottle is required.
X2 Fabrics and Leather + Pulitutto
-Spot Cleaning: If you would like to clean a specific part/parts of the seat, this is referred to as spot cleaning. Simply, spray the product on the seat directly or on a detailing brush, gently scrub the product into the seat ensuring you cover the area you would like to clean. Then, use a microfibre cloth (Micron Up) to wipe off the excess product.
- Deep Cleaning: Deep cleaning is required for either the removal of tough stains or cleaning the entirety of the seats. Use either of the fabric cleaners mentioned above but in higher volumes for tougher stains, following the instructions on the label. However, avoid soaking the seats with too much product, because the excessive moisture can lead to mold.
ii. Cleaning Leather Seats
When cleaning leather seats, there are two steps involved: cleaning and conditioning. For cleaning, a leather detergent like DET Leather by Fra-Ber is required, and for the conditioning, use a leather restorer like Cream Leather by Fra-Ber. These two products work exceptionally well together and guarantee better results when used during these processes.
DET Leather + Cream Leather
- Use a Leather Detergent: Apply the leather detergent directly onto the surface of the seats and gently scrub the product into the leather using a leather brush. Let it sit and absorb into the leather according to the instructions on the bottle. Next, use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the excess off the seats. Avoid harsh chemicals that could dry out or crack the leather.
- Use a Leather Conditioner: After cleaning the leather, use a leather conditioner to keep the seats soft and silky, while avoiding the material from drying out or cracking.
ii. Cleaning Vinyl Seats
- Wipe the seats with a Damp Cloth: Use a solution of warm water and mild soap to wipe down vinyl seats. Recommended: Pulitutto Concentrate by Fra-Ber
- Apply a Vinyl Protectant: Use a protectant spray to prevent cracking and fading caused by UV exposure. Apply a surface sealant like Double Skin by Fra-Ber for an added layer of protection.
Vinyl Seat Being Cleaned
Step 4: Let It Dry
The final step of the process is to let the seats dry properly. Yu can do this by just leaving the doors or window open and allow the seats to air dry. If available to you, use a high-powered fan to aid in the drying process. Drying the seats properly prevents moisture buildup, which could lead to mildew, mold or odors.
Conclusion
Cleaning your car seats regularly not only keeps your interior looking fresh but also helps to maintain your vehicle's value and overall cleanliness. A clean, well-maintained car interior provides a more enjoyable driving experience and by following the right steps, this process is it a lot simpler than it seems.
