Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Nat Ismaeil. Nat Ismail is a Cleaning Expert based in Howel Township, New Jersey. He is the President of Pure Surface Care, a residential and commercial cleaning company. Pure Surface Care provides a wide range of professional cleaning services, including carpet cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, area rug cleaning, upholstery cleaning, hardwood floor cleaning, laminate and vinyl cleaning, and pet odor treatment. The company’s services cater to both residential and commercial clients, and they are dedicated to delivering top-quality service for all of their clients.
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Over time, car owners may experience spilled coffee while going over a bump in the road, leaks from a child's sippy cup, or a punctured gallon of milk in the back seat. If spills aren't cleaned quickly, liquid may soak into the seats, resulting in stained and dingy seats and an unpleasant smell. They can even reduce your car's value. Avoid the hassle of deep-cleaning stubborn stains, and remove liquid spills from vehicle upholstery as soon as you notice the mess has been made.
Steps
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Dab the spill with a dry washcloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible.[1]
Spray vehicle upholstery cleaner onto the spill, or dab it on with the washcloth.- You can purchase upholstery cleaner formulated for car interiors, or use 1 part laundry detergent diluted in 2 parts warm water.
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Follow the instructions on the bottle of your upholstery cleaner. Some may need to be vacuumed up after a certain amount of time setting into the spill. Others, including laundry soap and water, should be scrubbed into the spill.[2]
Scrub the spill using a dry terrycloth towel or a soft-bristle scrub brush.
Blot excess cleaner or soap with a clean, dry paper towel or washcloth.
Soak a washcloth in lukewarm water, and dab it over the spill to wipe away any leftover soap residue.
Park your car outside with the windows down to quickly dry the area of the spill.[3]
Examine the spill once it has been cleaned and allowed to dry completely. If you can still see staining, repeat the process of scrubbing, rinsing and drying.[4]
Community Q&A
- QuestionWill this work on cocktail juice stains?
Community AnswerThose stains are a bit harder to remove, but it should still do a pretty good job with removing them.
Tips
- Treat water spills, too, since dampness in your upholstery can create mildew that is unpleasant to see or smell.[5]Thanks
- Treat spills immediately since they can sink into the upholstery, causing stains and odors that are difficult to remove.Thanks
Warnings
- Review your vehicle owner's manual to make sure your seats aren't covered in any special material that requires a certain cleaning process or product.Thanks
- Only use manufactured stain removing cleaners that specifically list they are meant for use in vehicle upholstery. Some cleaners may cause damage if they are used on fabrics they aren't intended to clean.Thanks
Things You'll Need
- Wash cloths or paper towels
- Car upholstery cleaner
- Laundry detergent
- Water
- Bucket
- Terrycloth towels
- Soft-bristle brushes
- Vacuum (optional)
References
- ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-clean-food-spills-from-car-upholstery-251230
- ↑ https://www.cars.com/articles/how-to-clean-up-spills-in-the-car-1420663003896/
- ↑ https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/r/car-projects/how-to-clean-your-cars-upholstery
- ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/tips-on-how-to-spot-clean-old-or-setin-stains-on-upholstery-208738
- ↑ https://knowhow.napaonline.com/mold-and-mildew-removal-for-your-car/
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