PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Home and Garden
Housekeeping
Cleaning
Cleaning Plastic
How to Clean Car Plastic Download Article Co-authored by Chad Zani
Last Updated: April 14, 2025 References
Download Article
Cleaning Interior Plastic
|
Taking Care of Exterior Plastic
|
Maintaining a Clean Car
|
Q&A
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Chad Zani. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 340,922 times.
Practicing good car maintenance both inside and out will help your vehicle both hold resale value and be a source of pride for you. Your car has both interior and exterior plastic. To clean the interior plastic, start by vacuuming and then using a soft cloth and a plastic safe cleaner. When cleaning your exterior plastic, wash your car first and then apply a degreaser. Always finish your cleaning sessions with some sort of protectant.
Steps
Method 1 Method 1 of 3:
Cleaning Interior Plastic
Download Article
1 Vacuum the interior. Before you begin, vacuum out your car to remove any debris.Your cleaning products will work much better if you vacuum before getting started. Using a soft brush attachment on the vacuum nozzle will help prevent scratching.
Remove the floor mats and shake them before you start vacuuming.
Be extra careful around any knobs or vents. These areas can be easily damaged.
2 Dust the plastic. Use a soft damp cloth (water only) or soft hand-held dust mop (available in the car care section of any grocery or discount store) to clear away dust. A small, soft-bristled paintbrush works well to clear dust from crevices such as around the gear shift and hand brake, the radio controls and other tight spaces where dust can settle.
You can also use a soft-bristled toothbrush and cotton swabs to clean crevices and hard to reach areas.
If you used a damp cloth, go back with a dry soft cloth to dry the plastic.
Advertisement
3 Treat stains. If your plastic is stained, apply a very small amount of mild soap, laundry detergent, or plastic auto cleaner to a damp cloth. Never apply any cleaning solution directly to the plastic. Wipe the area until it is clean. Follow up with a clean, dry rag.[1]XResearch source
Always test an inconspicuous piece of plastic before you apply it to all of the plastic in your car.
If you are using a commercial plastic cleaner, follow the instructions on the packaging.
Turn the cloth to a clean spot when it begins to show dirt. You do not want to redistribute dirt throughout your car.
4 Apply a protectant. Once your plastic is cleaned, apply a protectant. Visit an automotive store or the automobile section of a large retailer to find a plastic protectant. Only apply the protectant to clean surfaces. You do not want to lock in any dirt or grime.
Again never spray products directly on the plastic. Always use a clean, soft cloth or a foam applicator pad.
5 Use polish. To add some shine to your plastic, use a plastic polish or an oil such as olive oil or boiled linseed oil. Put some oil or polish on a soft cloth and then rub it into the plastic. Then use a clean soft cloth to rub away any excess product.
You can purchase boiled linseed oil from a hardware or paint store.
There are also all-in-one products that act as both a polish and a protectant. This is convenient and cuts down on the amount of products you have to buy.[2]XResearch source
Advertisement Method 2 Method 2 of 3:
Taking Care of Exterior Plastic
Download Article
1 Wash your car. Pre-soak your car with water for 5 minutes to remove any stubborn dirt. Place a few drops of a mild liquid soap (e.g. Ivory soap) in a bucket of water and use a sponge or car wash mitt to clean your car. Wash your car in sections and rinse with plain water. Start at the top of your car and work your way down. Once you have cleaned your entire car, rinse the car with water again.
Clean your car in a shaded area to prevent your car from getting too hot. If the surface of the car is too warm, the soap may dry and you will have to wash your car multiple times.
Dry your car with a clean, soft, dry towel or drive your car around the block.
2 Apply a degreaser. Once you have washed the car, spray a light degreaser on a towel and apply it to the plastic areas of your car. Wipe your car using a medium amount of pressure. If the area has buildup, scrub with a brush. Be careful not to scrub the paint.[3]XResearch source
Purchase a light degreaser that is safe for cars. Visit your local automotive store or the automotive section of a large retailer like Walmart or Target.
The degreaser will also remove any buildup from other products that you applied.
3 Restore dull plastic. Many cars these days have black plastic trim. This trim can begin to look dull and worn. A restoring product will provide a deep clean and restore some of the color. Apply a couple of nickel sized drops of the solution on a soft towel and rub it into the plastic areas using medium pressure.[4]XResearch source
These products will remove stains and improve the color.
Some good products you can try include Poorboy’s Trim Restorer, TUF SHINE Black Restore Kit, or Black WOW, or Mother’s Back-to-Black cream.[5]XResearch source
Always read the instructions before using the product on your car.
4 Apply a protectant. A good protectant will protect the exterior plastic from UV rays and keep the trim looking like new. Spray the protectant on a clean, soft towel and wipe it on your car using a back and forth motion. The protectant should only take a few minutes to dry.[6]XResearch source
These protectants can often be used on multiple surfaces such as plastic, vinyl, and rubber.
Always degrease the surface before applying the protectant.
Advertisement Method 3 Method 3 of 3:
Maintaining a Clean Car
Download Article
1 Clean your car regularly. Clean the interior of your car once a month, and the exterior of your car twice a month. If you have a regular cleaning schedule, your cleaning sessions will not take as long. If you cannot clean your car this often. At least try to clean your car at regular intervals.[7]XResearch source
You may need to clean your car more often if you live near the coast, have salted roads in the winter, or live in a wooded area with tree sap.
Remove and shake out your car mats once a week as well.
To clean car carpet, attach a carpet brush to the end of a cordless drill. Clean the surface with a special stain remover or foaming wash—the drill does most of the work for you. You can also use specialized brushes for upholstery and rubber, if needed.[8]X Expert Source Chad ZaniAuto Detailing ExpertExpert Interview
2 Remove trash daily. Your car is not a trash bag. Remove empty cups, plastic wrappers, or any other trash every day. It may help to keep plastic bags in your car for trash collection. You can then throw the bag away at the end of the day.[9]XResearch source
3 Read the owner’s manual. Before you do any interior cleaning, read your owner’s manual. Your car materials may be sensitive to certain cleaners or your manufacturer may recommend specific cleaning products. Always test products in an inconspicuous spot before you apply it to all of the interior.[10]XResearch source
The owner’s manual may also have cleaning tips for your car. If you do not have a hard copy of the manual, you can often find the manual on the manufacturer’s website.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question How do I remove dried-on mud from a plastic interior when Armor-All didn't work? Community Answer Your best bet is to use a dish brush with a 3:1 mixture of mild dish soap and water. Don't use a brush that's too harsh, as you may scratch the plastic. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
Question The car mileage meter is covered by transparent plastic. I used dashboard cleaning liquid to clean the plastic, but now it is stuck on the cover. It is difficult for me to see my meter now. What should I do? Community Answer Apply a degreaser to the plastic to remove any of the buildup of product. Follow up with a plastic safe cleaner. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 9 Helpful 8
Question How to fix scratched plastic? Community Answer Clean the area and then apply some sort of plastic solvent, adhesive, or filler. Once it dries, sand the area, and then use plastic paint. You can purchase a plastic scratch kit from an automotive store. All of the products that you need will be included. Always read the instructions before you use any product. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 7
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
You Might Also Like
How toDetail a CarThe Best Way to Paint Plastic Parts on a CarSimple DIY Ways to Polish & Restore Plastic So It ShinesBest Ways to Clean the Outside & Inside of Your CarHow to Use Household Ingredients to Clean Your CarHow toClean Leather Car SeatsHow toShampoo Car InteriorHow toRestore Black PlasticHow toPaint a Car InteriorHow to Get Scuff Marks Off Car VinylHow toVacuum a CarHow toPrevent Synthetic Leather from CrackingHow toRemove Clear Coat from PlasticHow toClean Clear Plastic Advertisement
Co-authored by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert This article was co-authored by Chad Zani. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. This article has been viewed 340,922 times. 11 votes - 82% Co-authors: 10Updated: April 14, 2025 Views: 340,922 Categories: Featured Articles | Cleaning Cars | Car Interior Cleaning | Cleaning PlasticArticle SummaryX
To clean your car’s interior plastic, you can use a vacuum and some plastic-safe cleaner. First, remove any debris, and take the floor mats out and shake them off. When you’re ready to vacuum, use a soft brush attachment on the nozzle to prevent scratching your interior. After vacuuming the interior, dust the plastic with a soft damp cloth or a soft hand-held dust mop. For stains, apply a small amount of mild soap, laundry detergent, or plastic auto cleaner to the cloth. Once you’ve cleaned the plastic, apply a protectant to cleaned surfaces. To learn how to take care of your car’s exterior plastic, keep reading!Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish Italian Russian Portuguese French Indonesian
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 340,922 times.
Reader Success Stories
Mordecai Mfula Henzy
Sep 4, 2019
"Really wanted to know how to maintain the plastic parts of my car. The message here is so understandable and will help me maintain my car interior and exterior looks. Thanks a million."..." more
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert Co-authors: 10Updated: April 14, 2025 Views: 340,92282% of readers found this article helpful. 11 votes - 82% Click a star to add your vote
Mordecai Mfula Henzy
Sep 4, 2019
"Really wanted to know how to maintain the plastic parts of my car. The message here is so understandable and will help me maintain my car interior and exterior looks. Thanks a million."..." more
Namasivayam Siva
Jan 11, 2018
"Thank you for teaching how to clean various household and car items. Very useful." Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
What Does Your Car Say About You?Analyze MeWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizWhat Skincare Products Should I Use QuizTake QuizWhat Type of Hands Do I Have QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toDetail a CarThe Best Way to Paint Plastic Parts on a CarSimple DIY Ways to Polish & Restore Plastic So It ShinesBest Ways to Clean the Outside & Inside of Your Car
Trending Articles
Am I Good at Flirting QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizHow Many Secret Admirers Do I Have QuizRank My Attractiveness Quiz5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeWhat Would My Nickname Be Quiz
Watch Articles
How toImpress a Girl on a First DateWhat Are Tear Burns on TikTok and What Causes Them?How toWear a HoodieHow toChiffonadeHow toMake a Fabric RoseHow toConfront a Bully
Trending Articles
What Is My Intelligence Type Quiz210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow toTell That Your Crush Likes You BackDepression Test for TeensSCP Fight Simulator: Who Will Win?Am I Autistic Quiz
Quizzes & Games
What Makeup Should I Wear QuizTake QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizBumper Sticker GeneratorGenerateOCD TestTake QuizWhat's the Best Meal Kit for Me QuizTake QuizClean or Messy Girl TestTake Quiz
Categories
Home and Garden
Housekeeping
Cleaning
Cleaning Plastic
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Chad Zani 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Chad Zani Auto Detailing Expert This article was co-authored by Chad Zani. Chad Zani is an Auto Detailing Expert based in Los Angeles, California. He is the Director of Franchising at Detail Garage, an automotive detailing company with locations around the U.S. and Sweden. He and his team are auto detailing experts that offer detailing and car care services. This article has been viewed 340,922 times. 11 votes - 82% Co-authors: 10 Updated: April 14, 2025 Views: 340,922 Categories: Featured Articles | Cleaning Cars | Car Interior Cleaning | Cleaning Plastic Article SummaryX
Analyze Me
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Generate
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
592 
1 Vacuum the interior. Before you begin, vacuum out your car to remove any debris.Your cleaning products will work much better if you vacuum before getting started. Using a soft brush attachment on the vacuum nozzle will help prevent scratching. 
2 Dust the plastic. Use a soft damp cloth (water only) or soft hand-held dust mop (available in the car care section of any grocery or discount store) to clear away dust. A small, soft-bristled paintbrush works well to clear dust from crevices such as around the gear shift and hand brake, the radio controls and other tight spaces where dust can settle. 
3 Treat stains. If your plastic is stained, apply a very small amount of mild soap, laundry detergent, or plastic auto cleaner to a damp cloth. Never apply any cleaning solution directly to the plastic. Wipe the area until it is clean. Follow up with a clean, dry rag.[1] 
4 Apply a protectant. Once your plastic is cleaned, apply a protectant. Visit an automotive store or the automobile section of a large retailer to find a plastic protectant. Only apply the protectant to clean surfaces. You do not want to lock in any dirt or grime. 
5 Use polish. To add some shine to your plastic, use a plastic polish or an oil such as olive oil or boiled linseed oil. Put some oil or polish on a soft cloth and then rub it into the plastic. Then use a clean soft cloth to rub away any excess product. 
1 Wash your car. Pre-soak your car with water for 5 minutes to remove any stubborn dirt. Place a few drops of a mild liquid soap (e.g. Ivory soap) in a bucket of water and use a sponge or car wash mitt to clean your car. Wash your car in sections and rinse with plain water. Start at the top of your car and work your way down. Once you have cleaned your entire car, rinse the car with water again. 
2 Apply a degreaser. Once you have washed the car, spray a light degreaser on a towel and apply it to the plastic areas of your car. Wipe your car using a medium amount of pressure. If the area has buildup, scrub with a brush. Be careful not to scrub the paint.[3] 
3 Restore dull plastic. Many cars these days have black plastic trim. This trim can begin to look dull and worn. A restoring product will provide a deep clean and restore some of the color. Apply a couple of nickel sized drops of the solution on a soft towel and rub it into the plastic areas using medium pressure.[4] 
4 Apply a protectant. A good protectant will protect the exterior plastic from UV rays and keep the trim looking like new. Spray the protectant on a clean, soft towel and wipe it on your car using a back and forth motion. The protectant should only take a few minutes to dry.[6] 
1 Clean your car regularly. Clean the interior of your car once a month, and the exterior of your car twice a month. If you have a regular cleaning schedule, your cleaning sessions will not take as long. If you cannot clean your car this often. At least try to clean your car at regular intervals.[7] 
2 Remove trash daily. Your car is not a trash bag. Remove empty cups, plastic wrappers, or any other trash every day. It may help to keep plastic bags in your car for trash collection. You can then throw the bag away at the end of the day.[9] 
3 Read the owner’s manual. Before you do any interior cleaning, read your owner’s manual. Your car materials may be sensitive to certain cleaners or your manufacturer may recommend specific cleaning products. Always test products in an inconspicuous spot before you apply it to all of the interior.[10] 
Community Answer Your best bet is to use a dish brush with a 3:1 mixture of mild dish soap and water. Don't use a brush that's too harsh, as you may scratch the plastic. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4 
Community Answer Clean the area and then apply some sort of plastic solvent, adhesive, or filler. Once it dries, sand the area, and then use plastic paint. You can purchase a plastic scratch kit from an automotive store. All of the products that you need will be included. Always read the instructions before you use any product. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 8 Helpful 7 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.