How to remove soda stains from a car

A clean car interior just makes you feel good and can help maintain your car's resale value. Spills are just a part of life and eventually the interior of your car will be the recipient of the spill. If the stain is not removed quickly, it can lead to a permanent stain.

The interior of the vehicle should be cleaned regularly and any spills, large or small, should be cleaned up as soon as possible. The type of spill you are dealing with will determine the best way to clean it up. What works with one stain may not work with another.

If it was a can of soda that ended up on your car seat or carpet, here's the best way to deal with it so it doesn't turn into a permanent stain.

Method 1 of 3: fabric upholstery

If the stain is on the fabric upholstery of one of your car seats, use this method to clean it up and prevent stains.

Necessary materials

• water
• Clean rags
• Dishwashing liquid

Step 1: Use a clean cloth to soak up as much of the spilled soda as possible..

Step 2: Mix a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid with half a glass of water..

Step 3: Blot the Stain. Use a clean cloth or sponge to rub and dab the stain with the dishwashing liquid solution.

Step 4: Soak up the dishwashing solution with a clean cloth..

Step 5: Repeat these steps until the stain is removed..

Step 6: Make sure the fabric is completely dry.. If necessary, open the car windows to speed up the drying process.

Method 2 of 3: Leather or vinyl upholstery

Spills on leather or vinyl are fairly easy to clean up. Spilled soda should be cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent it from drying on the leather or vinyl.

Necessary materials

• water
• Clean rags
• Dishwashing liquid
• Skin conditioner

Step 1: Use a clean cloth to soak up as much of the spilled soda as possible..

Step 2: Mix one drop of dishwashing liquid with half a glass of water..

Step 3: Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and wipe the stain.. Do not use too much solution, as too much wetting of leather or vinyl can leave watermarks.

Step 4: Wipe off the solution with a cloth dampened with clean water.. You need to be sure to wipe off all the dishwashing liquid solution.

Step 5: Wipe the leather or vinyl immediately with a clean cloth.. Be sure to completely dry the leather or vinyl surface to avoid watermarks.

Step 6: Apply leather conditioner to the stain when dry.. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to properly apply conditioner.

Method 3 of 3: carpeting

If the spill is on your car's carpeting, the cleaning method will be similar to cloth cleaning, but with a couple of extra steps.

Necessary materials

• water
• Clean rags
• Dishwashing liquid
• white vinegar
• bristle brush

Step 1: Use a clean cloth to soak up as much of the spilled soda as possible..

Step 2: Mix one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid and one tablespoon of white vinegar with a half cup of water..

Step 3: Use a clean cloth or sponge to rub and dab the stain with dishwashing liquid and the vinegar solution..

Step 4: If the stain is particularly stubborn, use a bristle brush to thoroughly rub the solution into the stain..

Step 5: Wipe off the solution with a cloth or sponge dampened with clean water.. Be sure to wipe off all dishwashing liquid and vinegar solution.

Step 6: Blot the water with a clean cloth or towel.. Let the stain dry. If necessary, open the car windows to facilitate the drying process.

If you were able to deal with the soda spill quickly, your car interior shouldn't be worn out now. If a spill has turned into a stain, or if you find it difficult to remove the stain from your car seats or carpet, you may need the help of a professional car repairman to evaluate the stain.