How to Remove Soda Stains from a Car's Interior

While clear sodas won't be much of a stain problem - in spite of the sticky mess - if your little tykes spill root beer or strawberry soda, it's time to polish up on your stain-removal skills.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spray Bottle
• Sponge
• White Vinegar
• White Vinegar
• Paper Towels
• Paper Towels
• Paper towels
• sponge and towel
• hydrogen peroxide
• foaming fabric cleaner

1. Remove any soda residue by blotting with paper towels.

2. Use a foaming fabric cleaner on a stain that appears on upholstery, following directions exactly.

3. Or, mix up a homemade stain buster for rugs and cloth upholstery: 1/4 c. hydrogen peroxide to 3 c. water. Spray on with a spray bottle and let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse with a solution of 1/4 c. white vinegar to 3/4 c. cold water. Blot dry.

4. For leather, use lukewarm water and a sponge to gently remove stains. Wipe the entire car seat (including crevices) and dry with a clean towel.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using a stain-repelling product like Scotchgard to protect upholsteries and rugs. Use Scotchgard Leather Protector for leather upholstery.
• Hot water will cause stains to set. Use cold or warm water.
• Before using hydrogen peroxide, test on a small and unobtrusive spot first to make sure it doesn't bleach.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners, saddle soap, oils, detergents, furniture polish or ammonia on leather.