A car is a huge investment. In fact, for most people, it’s the second largest purchase that they make during their lifetime besides their house. So, it’s astounding that so many people let their car slip into a bad state. Sure, it may be functioning fine and allowing you to get from point A to point B; but why make journeys uncomfortable for yourself by letting your vehicle fill up with junk, fast food wrappers, and dirt? What if you find yourself having to give a family member, friend, or colleague a lift? They’re likely to make a comment on the messiness of your car’s interior that could be entirely avoided. You also want to ensure that your car looks presentable to outsiders too. If you’ve invested a lot of cash into it, you should make it shine and catch people’s eyes in the best light possible. So, it’s time to ditch the dirt inside your vehicle and prevent people scrawling messages made of dust and mud on the exterior.

Here’s how to keep your car squeaky clean inside and out!

Clean Inside and Out Once a Month

Exteriors

You can prevent your car’s exterior from becoming excessively dirty by parking it at a garage out of the elements and avoid parking beneath trees where possible as birds and bats are likely to defecate. However, you should still give the outside of your car a complete scrub down at least once a month.

Stock up on products such as car wash soap, car wax and polish, and windscreen and wheel cleaners. Always opt for high-quality options as cheaper products can tarnish or damage your car if used regularly. Read car wash soap reviews and as well as other product reviews to check out how others have found them and whether each item is recommended or not.

Start by rinsing off the exterior of your vehicle with a hose. This will remove the surface layer of any thick scum or dust. Next, fill a bucket with warm, soapy water and use a soft sponge to wipe down your car from top to bottom. You might have to put in a little elbow grease to get rid of stubborn dirt. Then give the bodywork another thorough rinse with the hose.

Now, focus on the wheels. Use your chosen alloy cleaner and a brush to rid the alloys of any thick dirt and finish with a cloth. Dry the body of the vehicle with a chamois leather cloth, doing your best to avoid creating streaks.

Finally, use soft cloths and your chosen polish or wax to buff any panels. This will give your vehicle an extra added shine.

Interiors

Now to tackle the insides of your vehicle. Sure, people may not be able to see this as easily but it’s where you spend your time driving. Thus, a clear and pleasant space will benefit you more than anything else. Empty out any trash and bin them. Use a handheld vacuum cleaner to hoover up any crumbs, dirt, or other debris from your floor and seats. Then wipe down the dash and leather seats with a damp cloth and allow it to dry. It’s as simple as that!

A clean car will help you to appear neat and tidy and it gives you the most comfortable journeys possible. So take an hour out of your day once a month to keep your car up to scratch!