How to remove dirt from the door panel

When cleaning the interior of your car, don't forget to clean the door panels, this will help give your car an extra shine. Door panel cleaning is a multi-step process that includes vacuuming dirt and debris, wiping…

When cleaning the interior of your car, don't forget to clean the door panels, this will help give your car an extra shine. Door panel cleaning is a multi-step process that includes vacuuming any dirt or debris, wiping down various surfaces with a suitable cleaner, detailing the panel, and polishing the door panel to make it shine. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly achieve the great look of your car's door panels.

Part 1 of 3: Vacuum door panels

Necessary materials

• Compressed air
• Vacuum cleaner (or shop vacuum cleaner)
• Vacuum crevice nozzle (for penetration into door cracks)

Vacuuming the door panels helps remove most of the loose dirt, making the cleaning process even easier. Using a household or shop vacuum cleaner, make sure you get into all the nooks and crannies of the door panel, using compressed air if necessary.

Step 1: Vacuum the dust. Start by vacuuming all surfaces of the door panel well, removing any loose dirt or debris.

• By removing dirt and debris now, you will prevent them from smearing when you wipe down the door panel later.

Step 2: Use a crevice tool. Get into the nooks and crannies of the door panel using the crevice tool, including storage pockets.

• Some vacuum cleaners, such as industrial vacuum cleaners, come with a crevice tool already attached to the hose.

Step 3 Use compressed air. If you have trouble getting into crevices, spray compressed air into the tight spaces and blow out the dirt. Then use the vacuum cleaner to clean it.

Part 2 of 3: Clean and detail the door panels.

Necessary materials

• Leather cleaner (for leather surfaces)
• Microfiber cloths
• Soft bristle brush
• Vinyl cleaner

Wiping the door panel surfaces after vacuuming helps remove dirt and debris. Be sure to use a cleaner that is compatible with the surface you plan to clean, including leather cleaner for leather surfaces and vinyl cleaner for other types of fabrics.

• A warning: Do a color test on a small area of ​​the material that is not visible to make sure the cleaner you plan to use is safe on your door materials. Also, don't use regular laundry soap on vinyl or plastic surfaces, as it can remove the sheen of the material.

Step 1: Clean the surface. Clean the plastic, vinyl, or leather surfaces of the door panel by applying an appropriate cleaner to a clean microfiber cloth and wiping the panels.

• The surface of the microfiber cloth should repel dirt from the surface of the door panel.

Step 2: Empty Your Pockets. Empty all storage pockets as these areas collect a lot of dirt and debris.

• Be sure to clean the areas around the speaker grilles and armrests, and around the door frame and door sill located at the bottom of the door panel.

• If necessary, use a soft-bristled brush to remove scuff marks and other stubborn stains.

Step 3: Dry the panel: After cleaning all surfaces, dry the door panel with a clean microfiber cloth.

• In addition to drying with a microfiber cloth, allow the surface of the door panel to air dry.

Part 3 of 3: Polish and Protect Door Panels

Necessary materials

• car wax
• Leather conditioner (you can also find cleaner/conditioner combinations)
• Microfiber cloths
• Vinyl finish

Once the door panel is nice and clean, it's time to treat the vinyl or leather surfaces to protect them. Make sure you only use products that are compatible with the surface of your door panel, including doing a color test in an inconspicuous area to check color fastness.

• FunctionsA: When choosing a product to protect vinyl surfaces, look for a product with a good level of UV protection. The sun's rays can damage your vinyl surfaces, causing colors to fade. A product with UV protection helps prevent this.

Step 1: Apply a Bandage: Apply dressing or conditioner with a microfiber cloth.

• Be sure to get the product on all surfaces, including nooks and crannies, such as a storage pocket and around the armrest.

Step 2: Wipe off excess dressing or conditioner.. Let the door panel surface dry completely.

Step 3: Apply wax to metal parts. Be sure to use car wax on the inside of the metal part of the door panel to prevent oxidation and rust.

• Rub the wax with a clean microfiber cloth and let it dry before rubbing in to give it a final shine.

Door panels are an area that is often neglected when it comes to car interior cleaning. Fortunately, they are easy to clean if you have the right materials and know-how. In addition to keeping door panels clean, you should also keep them in good condition and in proper working order. This includes repairing the door when it sags or has another problem. Call one of our experienced mechanics for an inspection and advice on how to fix your problem.