How to Clean Dirt Smudges on Door Panels in Vehicles

In most vehicles the door panels become dirty very quickly, and these stains can be difficult to remove. Different kinds of interior door panels require different methods of cleaning. Knowing the right methods to use when cleaning your door panels will help you eliminate stains and keep your interior clean.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Towel
• Paper towels
• Toothbrush
• Upholstery cleaner
• Towels
• Warm water
• Leather or vinyl protectant spray

Carpet, Fabric or Plastic Door Panels

1. To clean carpet or fabric door panels you will need an upholstery cleaner, warm water and a toothbrush. Take the upholstery cleaner spray and spritz the stained area. Let the stain soak up the cleaner for about five minutes. Then take your toothbrush and dip it into the warm water and start scrubbing the stained area. Scrub the area in a circular motion to work the cleaner into the stain. Go over the whole area with the toothbrush and water.

2. After you have scrubbed the whole area, it is ready for rinsing. Take a clean white towel that has been soaked in warm water, and squeeze out excess water until the towel is only damp. Use a pressing motion and press the towel against the stained area, lifting the cleaner and stains from the affected area. Go over the whole area once, then rinse out the towel. Repeat the process until the towel no longer brings up any stains.

3. For plastic door panels you will need a damp cloth and dishwashing liquid. Pour a small amount of liquid onto the damp cloth and wipe the stained area. The stains should come off right away. Keep a bucket of clean water nearby to rinse off your cloth and to rewet the cloth for futher cleaning.

4. Allow the area to air dry if possible by leaving your doors open for air circulation.

Leather or Vinyl Door Panels

5. Leather or vinyl door panels must be cleaned with special cleaners. You can go to any automotive store and purchase a protectant for either leather or vinyl. Wipe the stained area with a clean towel to remove as much of the stain as you can before cleaning.

6. Take the protectant cleaner and spray it onto the stained area. Use a washcloth to work the cleaner into the stain. The stain should rub right off of the door panel. If not, you may need to use more cleaner. Repeat this process until the stains are no longer visible.

7. After removing the stain, take paper towels and remove any cleaning fluid left on the area. This should also dry the area.