Dads, listen up! Here are 11 simple steps to keeping your car looking good without having to go to an auto detailer. These tips will help you save money and keep your car in great condition. Follow these tips and you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your shiny, clean car that looks and smells as good as the day you got it. Let's get started!
Before you got married, chances are you maintained your car meticulously. After all, most women prefer a guy who has his stuff together and your car was likely the first time she took a step into your personal world. After marriage and a couple of kids though ... things got complicated. That's no excuse but it is the sad reality for too many dads. Don't worry though, we've got your back with these tips to help make sure your car keeps looking and smelling as good as new!
Know How To Clean Common Messes Kids Create
From crumbs to spilled drinks and everything in between, it's important to know how to quickly and easily clean up the common messes that kids make. Not only will this keep your car looking good, but it will also prevent any nasty smells from developing.
Never Leave Food Trash In The Car
This one should be a no-brainer but it's amazing how many dads make this mistake. If you're going to eat in the car, make sure you clean up afterwards. That means no leaving half-eaten wrappers or opened bags of chips lying around. Not only is it gross, but it will attract bugs and other critters looking for a free meal.
Vacuum the inside of your car regularly
This is another simple tip that will make a big difference. Vacuuming your car on a regular basis will help to remove any dirt, dust or crumbs that have accumulated. It's also a good idea to vacuum the floor mats and seats to keep them looking clean and fresh.
Clean The Dashboard And Console With A Damp Cloth
In between vacuuming sessions, take a few minutes to wipe down all the interior surfaces of your car. This includes the dashboard, door panels, center console and cup holders. A quick once-over with a damp cloth will help to remove any fingerprints or smudges that have built up.
Use a window cleaner to clean the windows and mirrors
Keeping the windows and mirrors clean is important for both safety and aesthetics. A good window cleaner will help to remove any streaks or smudges while also making it easier to see when driving.
Polish The Chrome Accents On Your Car
Chrome accents can really make a car stand out but they can also get dull and tarnished over time. A quick polish with a chrome cleaner will help to restore their shine and keep them looking like new.
Use A Headlight Polish To Restore The Brightness Of Your Beams
Over time, the headlights on your car can become dull and yellowed. This not only looks bad but it can also affect your visibility when driving at night. A headlight polish will help to remove any build-up and restore the brightness of your beams.
Shampoo The Carpets And Upholstery
If your car has carpeted floors or upholstered seats, it's important to shampoo them on a regular basis. This will help to remove any dirt, stains or odors that have become embedded in the fabric.
Wash Your Car Regularly And Use Wax or Other Protectants
This is probably the most important tip on this list. Washing your car regularly will help to remove any dirt, grime or salt that has accumulated. It's also a good idea to use a wax or other protectant on the paint to help keep it looking shiny and new.
Have Odor Removers Handy, Not Just Air Fresheners
Air fresheners are a good way to mask odors but they're not necessarily the best way to remove them. If you're dealing with a particularly bad smell, it's best to use an odor remover that will actually eliminate the source of the problem.
Have a "Paint Stick" Ready To Fix Scratches
If you park your car in a public place, it's inevitable that it will eventually get scratched. While you can't prevent this from happening, you can be prepared for it by keeping a "paint stick" in your trunk. This is a small tube of touch-up paint that can be used to quickly cover up any scratches or chips.
Keep A Car Cleaning Kit Handy
Last but not least, it's always a good idea to keep a car cleaning kit in your trunk. This should include all the basic supplies you need to keep your car looking clean and presentable. Things like a vacuum cleaner, window cleaner, shampoo and towels should all be included. By keeping a kit like this on hand, you'll be prepared for anything life throws your way.
Know When You Need Extra Help!
Of course, there will be times when your car needs a little more than a simple cleaning. If it's been a while since you've had it detailed or if it's starting to look really rough, it might be time to call in the professionals. An auto detailer can do wonders for your car and they'll have it looking like new in no time.
So there you have it! These are just a few simple tips that dads can use to keep their car looking good without an auto detailer. By following these tips, you'll be able to keep your car clean and presentable without spending a lot of money. So get out there and start cleaning! Your car will thank you for it.
infographic by Auto Detailers Near Me
