It’s often you have a spotless car on the outside but a mess on the inside. That’s the case for most people. It’s easy to take your vehicle to a car wash. The entire process takes only several minutes; however, cleaning the inside of your car is another thing. If you have a carpeted interior, getting all of those dirt stains that were trekked into the car after a rainy day, or the juice stains from all of the drinks that your children have spilled, can be incredibly challenging.
Car carpet cleaners can make your job a lot easier, and are the key to having a spotless carpet. Your car carpets can look like new again with just a little bit of work. By using these carpet cleaning products and bit of know-how, you won’t have to get it detailed by a professional.
- How to Choose a Car Carpet Cleaner
- Top 10 Best Car Carpet Cleaners 2024
- 1. Best Overall Car Carpet Cleaner: Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator
- 2. Best Budget Car Carpet Cleaner: Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
- 3. Best Premium Car Carpet Cleaner: Bissell Deep Clean
- 4. Best for Quick Fixes: Folex Carpet Spot Remover
- 5. Best All-Purpose Cleaner: CarGuys Super Cleaner
- 6. Best for Pet-Owners: Bissell Professional Pet Urine Eliminator
- 7. Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle
- 8. Biokleen Bac-Out Stain and Odor Remover
- 9. Best Dry Carpet Cleaner: Capture Carpet Cleaning Powder
- 10. Hoover CleanPlus Concentrated Solution
- A Complete Guide to Car Carpet Cleaners
- The Right Car Carpet Cleaner
How to Choose a Car Carpet Cleaner
Finding the perfect car carpet cleaner is no easy task. This is partially because there are so many products on the market that all claim to work miracles. We’ve done the research for you and looked at various aspects of different products to determine which ones are the best.
We’ve broken down the most important features into three distinct categories: the overall formula of the car carpet cleaner, the features and functionalities that it provides, its ease of use, and whether it can be applied on various surfaces other than carpet.
Formulation and Functionality
Most car owners don’t really look at the formula of the car carpet cleaners or consider what type of functions that the cleaner offers, but this is actually one of the first things you should consider. Some car carpet cleaners can do more than just clean the carpet. The formula may also have the following.
Disinfecting Abilities
Make sure that the car carpet cleaner is making a difference at the microbial level. Your car is a closed environment, which means that it’s the perfect breeding ground for a lot of disgusting microbes. While you don’t necessarily need to look for a product that contains bleach, you should look for something that can also disinfect the carpet and get rid of mold, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
Deodorizing Abilities
Many times, the smell of a dirty car is just as bad as the visual. It’s easy for messes and accidents to start to smell funky or sour. Spills can start to smell funny even if they are only left overnight. The smell may indicate that there’s mildew or bacteria brooding within the carpet fibers. You can get rid of the smell with a car carpet cleaner that has deodorizing abilities. These cleaners have a special technology that can remove odors.
Stain Removal Abilities
You’d be surprised at just how quickly messes can turn into stains. Look for car carpet cleaners that can get rid of stains without causing any discoloration.
Last but not least, look for a formula that is non-toxic and made from safe ingredients. Non-toxic cleaners tend to be more gentle on the carpet and will be less likely to cause discoloration and other issues.
Ease of Use
Many people hesitate to clean their car’s carpet on their own. They think that it takes a lot of effort and work to do. This really isn’t the case most of the time. A good car carpet cleaner will do the job for you within a relatively short period of time. Generally, they are fast-acting. The best car carpet cleaners will also penetrate into deep stains with little to no extra elbow-grease needed.
Possible Applications
It’s important to consider the applications of the cleaner and whether it is compatible with various surfaces. Some car carpet cleaners can do so much more than just disinfect and remove stains. They can clean up engine grease and they can even be used on other surfaces, like vinyl, suede and leather. Finding a car carpet cleaner that can also cleans other surfaces will make your job a lot smoother, as you’ll only need one product in your closet rather than a whole box of them.
Another important thing to consider is whether the car carpet cleaner can be used on both dark- and light-colored carpets. Make sure that the product won’t accidentally bleach or dye your carpets or other surfaces, like the plastic trim on the side or the rubber moldings. If they do, you may find yourself forking over a fortune to replace those pieces.
That’s the basics. A car carpet cleaner is very similar to other carpet cleaners on the market, with an emphasis on powerful dirt removal as car carpets are more heavily used than your average living room carpet. To get a more in-depth look, check out our guide below, but let’s go over our favorite choices that’ll make the inside of your car as gleaming as the outside.
Top 10 Best Car Carpet Cleaners 2024
1. Best Overall Car Carpet Cleaner: Rocco & Roxie Stain and Odor Eliminator
Editor’s Rating:
This product makes some impressive claims. If your stains aren’t gone, you can get a full refund! It’s also extremely affordable, and many people have obtained great results from this product.
This cleaner is also approved by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). That means that its formula is safe and gentle for all colorfast carpets.
Formulation and Functionality
The product relies on a professional-strength bio-enzymatic formula to get rid of odors. The cleaner will release active bacteria that feed on the ammonia residue which is found in pet urine and many other organic materials. This formula is able to reach deep down into the carpet and does a lovely job at making it look, feel and smell like new again.
The formula is child and pet friendly and can work on a wide variety of messes. You’ll usually notice a difference within 10 to 15 minutes, although you might want to let the formula sit for up to one hour for some of the more stubborn stains. Remember to apply a liberal amount.
This formula is also chlorine-free, color-safe and does not leave any residue behind. This makes it an extremely safe product to use.
Ease of Use
On top of being one of the most affordable car carpet cleaners out there, this is one of the easiest to use. Simply spray the product on your carpet and wait. Use an absorbent towel to soak up the product, as well as any stains that are left behind. For some of the tougher stains, spray a liberal amount of the product on the area, and place a folded towel on top with a weighted object.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on many different surfaces, like carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, hardwood, tile, concrete, artificial grass, litter boxes and more. Therefore, as well as getting a carpet cleaner, you’re getting a great all-purpose cleaning product.
Pros
- Chlorine-free and color safe
- Can be used on carpets, furniture, clothing and more
- Eliminates odors, stains and residues
- Affordable
Cons
- May need to sit overnight for some of the tougher stains
2. Best Budget Car Carpet Cleaner: Nature’s Miracle Carpet Shampoo
Editor’s Rating:
If you’re looking for an affordable option, then you can’t go wrong with Nature’s Miracle Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampoo. This is perhaps one of the cheapest car carpet cleaners out there on the market. It can tackle quite a lot; however, it can only be used on carpets.
Formulation and Functionality
This product contains a low-foaming, water-based formula that is safe to use. The product uses bio-enzymatic odor locking technology to remove odors and stains, and the color-bright formula will condition the carpet, so it looks and feels like new. The formula can easily penetrate deep into the carpet fibers to remove not only dirt and grime, but also allergens.
Ease of Use
This product is fairly easy to use. You can use it stand-alone or with a carpet-cleaning machine. It works better with a machine, and by using one, you don’t have to wait long before you see results.
Possible Applications
The only downside with this product is that it can only be used on carpet, and cannot be used on many other surfaces. It cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery. As a result, it’s not recommended for use on any other area of the car.
Pros
- Bio-enzymatic odor locking technology offers a permanent and superior odor removal
- Low-foaming formula that is compatible with any water-based carpet cleaning machine
- Penetrates deep into carpet fibers
- Color-bright formula that conditions the carpet
- Can be used alone or with a machine
Cons
- Cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery
Editor’s Rating:
Although this product is a little bit pricey, it is definitely well worth it. This product is one of the best car carpet cleaners out there because it works well on almost every type of stain. It’s great for heavily soiled areas, stubborn stains and underlying odors.
It’s quick-acting and despite the fact that it’s more expensive, you’ll actually save a lot of money on product and on time. You won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning up as long as you have this product on hand.
Formulation and Functionality
One of the main reasons why this product is so effective is because it contains 4 times more active ingredients than many of the leading competitive products. It’s also Safer Choice Certified, and dye and phosphate-free. This product also does not contain any heavy metals or optical brighteners. The formula can protect your carpet from future stains, and it is children, pet and environmentally friendly. It can also remove tough odors.
While most people reserve this product for tough, stubborn stains and heavily soiled areas, it can also be used for simpler cleaning jobs. It’s extremely effective at cleaning up food and beverage soils, pet stains, blood, oil, grease and makeup.
Ease of Use
This product is extremely easy to use, but it is for machine-use only. All you have to do is pour about 2.5 fluid ounces of the cleaner into a carpet cleaning machine (this is Bissell’s own), and that’s it! However, due to the need for a machine, it significantly adds to an already premium price tag.
Possible Applications
This product is only safe on carpet, area rugs and upholstery. It should not be used on any other surfaces.
Pros
- Great for tough, stubborn stains and odors
- Contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes
- Safe for kids and pets
- Environmentally-friendly and biodegradable
- A portion of proceeds go towards the BISSELL Pet Foundation
Cons
- Machine-use only
4. Best for Quick Fixes: Folex Carpet Spot Remover
Editor’s Rating:
The one thing that most people hate doing is waiting. They want instantaneous results, and you can get that with the Folex Carpet Spot Remover. This company has been around for over 30 years and know what they’re doing! There’s a reason why they’re one of the most highly recommended car carpet cleaning solutions out there.
Formulation and Functionality
The water-based formula is non-toxic, non-flammable and odor-free. It relies on a surfactant as an emulsifying agent to remove stains, and is effective on auto oil, grease, dirt, food messes, makeup, grass stains, pet accidents and more. The formula is both colorfast and color stable.
Ease of Use
This product is perhaps one of the easiest products to use. All you have to do is spray on the solution on the area of the carpet that needs to be cleaned and then wipe it off or wait for it to dry. No rinsing or vacuuming necessary! You’ll see the stains disappear before your eyes. For some of the tougher stains, you may have to apply the solution more than once.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on carpet and all surfaces that can be dampened with water. It can safely be used on upholstery, clothing, draperies, walls, woodwork and more.
Pros
- No rinsing or vacuuming needed
- Instant results
- Non-toxic and non-irritating to normal skin
- Does not leave behind any residue
- Affordable
Cons
- May require more than one treatment to completely remove all stains
5. Best All-Purpose Cleaner: CarGuys Super Cleaner
Editor’s Rating:
This product has more than one application. Not only can it clean the carpets, but it can also act as an engine degreaser. It can also be applied on anything plastic, rubber or vinyl. It’s super convenient to have a bottle of this stuff in your garage, as it will clean up all types of messes and stains. You can replace your cabinet of cleaning supplies and solutions with just one bottle of this stuff.
This product comes with a fully adjustable nozzle and a comfortable ergonomic handle. The slim neck packaging makes it easy to hold, and the wider base prevents accidental tipping when you’re working.
Formulation and Functionality
This product uses one of the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift away dirt, grime and stains at the molecular level. The product contains no ammonia and harmful chemicals, and the product can get rid of almost all types of messes such as engine grease.
Ease of Use
Just spray and wait for the product to work. This product relies on a water-based polymer formula, so it’s not only safe, but does not need to be rinsed with water. Just spray and wipe it away!
Possible Applications
Get rid of a cabinet of cleaners and replace them with this highly effective product. This cleaning product is a favorite among car owners because it can be used to remove odors, dirt, grime and stains from the carpet and upholstery. It also removes stains and scuffs on leather and vinyl. You can clean the floor mats, tires and trims easily with it too.
It’s also effective at removing bird poop, bugs and tree sap from the exterior surface as well as grease from the engines.
It can clean just about anything, and can be used on the following surfaces: upholstery, fabric, leather, canvas, vinyl, plastic, metal, wood trim and rubber. It does not leave behind any residue at all.
The only surface that this product cannot be used on is glass.
Pros
- All-purpose formula with various applications
- Uses the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift stains
- Water-based formula
- Contains no ammonia or harmful chemicals
- 100% risk-free guarantee
Cons
- Packaging can leak if not stored properly
6. Best for Pet-Owners: Bissell Professional Pet Urine Eliminator
Editor’s Rating:
This product is great for pet owners who want to get pet stains and odors away from their carpets. It’s easy to use, and works well on heavily trafficked areas. It also protects the carpet from future stains. Best of all, this product offers a Febreeze clean and uses the power of oxy to get rid of unwanted smells! Your car will smell fresh and clean after every use.
You’ll also feel good about purchasing this product because a portion of the proceeds goes towards the Bissell Pet Foundation, a charity that helps save homeless pets. Although it’s mainly formulated for pet messes, this product will also work well on other messes as well.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is safe for children and pets, and contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes. The detergent is biodegradable, so it’s also earth-friendly.
This product contains 3 times more active ingredients than many other leading competitive formulas, can protect your carpets from future stains, and can get rid of both stains and odors.
This product contains a 2X concentrated formula that will work to get rid of even the toughest stains. It also penetrates deep into the carpet to get rid of all odors. Your pets aren’t going to mark that area of the carpet again.
Ease of Use
This product should ideally be used with machines only, although you can simply pour a little bit of the product on pet messes.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on upholstery and all types of carpets. The manufacturer recommends pre-treating a small section of the carpet first just to confirm that it won’t stain or discolor the carpet.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Safe for pets and children
- 2X concentrated formula
- Biodegradable
- Removes pet stains and odors
Cons
- Doesn’t work as well with petroleum-based messes
- Machine-use only
7. Sunny & Honey Carpet Miracle
Editor’s Rating:
If your primary concern is that your pets make a huge mess on your car carpets, then this is the product you need. This product is made in the USA, and Sunny & Honey, the parent company, donates 10% of all profits to charities that help animals in need. It’s one of the more affordable carpet cleaners out there. It’s also Leaping Bunny Certified.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is biodegradable and non-toxic. It also contains no harsh chemicals, but it is very concentrated, so a little amount can get most jobs done. The product is children-friendly, earth-friendly and also pet-friendly. It works wonders on pet messes, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time with your fur baby.
Ease of Use
This product is relatively easy to use. It’s compatible with a lot of cleaning machines. It is, however, for machine-use only. This product is best used on organic messes caused by pets.
Possible Applications
This product works well on carpets, rugs and upholstery. It can also be used on leather or faux leather seats.
Pros
- 100% guarantee
- Biodegradable and non-toxic
- Removes even the toughest stains with just one application
- Works well with several types of machines
- Color-safe
Cons
- Isn’t as effective on petroleum-based messes
- Is for machine-use only
8. Biokleen Bac-Out Stain and Odor Remover
Editor’s Rating:
Many people have sensitive noses or are allergic to fragrances. If you’re looking for a scent-free, environmentally-friendly car carpet cleaner, then the Biokleen Carpet and Rug Shampoo is just what you need. The interesting thing about this product is that it relies on enzyme cultures to eat away the messes and get rid of odors. Even the most discerning noses won’t be able to detect any odors and scents after the cleaner has done its job.
Formulation and Functionality
The formula is plant-based and contains both enzyme cultures and citrus extracts. It works well on organic messes, but is less effective on petroleum or chemical-based messes. However, if your kid spills their drink in the car (or if they puke), this car carpet cleaner will easily remove odors and get rid of any stains. The formula is non-toxic and safe to use around chemicals and pets. It’s fragrance-free and also contains no artificial colors.
Ease of Use
Just pour some of the product out onto the stained area or onto the carpet and you’re good to go. This full-strength formula does not need to be further diluted. You will have to wait for it to dry, so make sure that you open all of the windows for proper ventilation.
Possible Applications
This car carpet cleaner can be used on all carpets and upholstery within your car and in your home. Although effective in the short-term, it’s not great for leather and many other fabrics, so be wary of over-using it on this surface.
Pros
- Ultra-concentrated for less waste and more savings
- Environmentally-friendly and recyclable
- Not tested on animals
- Plant-based formula containing no phosphates, chlorine, ammonia and other harsh chemicals
- Removes odors and stains
Cons
- Works only on organic messes
- Takes some time to dry
9. Best Dry Carpet Cleaner: Capture Carpet Cleaning Powder
Editor’s Rating:
Most people don’t realize that car carpet cleaners can also come in the form of dry powder. This type of cleaning solution is easy to work with and a little goes a long way. In fact, just one pail of this powder can clean up to 400 square feet! You’ll have enough to clean your carpets for years! Another benefit of choosing dry powder is that it doesn’t go bad, and the powder will be just as effective years down the road.
Many people prefer dry powder because wet cleaners add moisture to the carpet. Those who don’t clean the wet cleaners up properly may end up with mildew. This may also prolong the life of the carpet, so it looks pristine for as long as possible.
Although dry powder is easy to work with and has many advantages, you will need some tools. You’ll need to brush the powder into the carpet using circular motions and vacuum it off the carpet afterward. This type of cleaning solution can be a bit time-consuming to use.
Formulation and Functionality
One pail can last for years. The pails come with a resealable lid for easy storage, and the formula will remove odors, stains and dirt. It locks onto stains to prevent them from spreading. The formula is also non-toxic and safe for kids and pets. This formula will remove moisture from carpets as well.
Ease of Use
This product isn’t necessarily the easiest to use. You need to brush the product into the carpet and then vacuum it up. The manufacturer also recommends using a pre-mist spray on the carpet for tougher stains. To get the most out of the product, you should also use a sifter to apply the powder, so that only a fine layer of the product is on the carpet.
Possible Applications
This product can be used on carpets, rugs, upholstery, furniture, sofa and couches. It is also safe for all types of carpets, like wool and code s fabric carpets.
Pros
- One pail cleans up to 400 square feet
- Locks in stains and prevent them from spreading
- Extremely affordable
- Removes dirt, odor, stains and moisture
- Safe for all types of carpets
Cons
- Requires brushing and vacuuming
- Needs pre-misting for tougher stains
10. Hoover CleanPlus Concentrated Solution
Editor’s Rating:
The Hoover CleanPlus concentrated solution is one of the best smelling car carpet cleaners on our list. You’ll get that lovely fresh linen scent that will remind you of fresh laundry. Another thing that we like about this product is that it’s made in the USA. The only downside about this product is that the fragrance can irritate some sensitive noses. If you have a fragrance allergy, you might want to consider staying away from this product.
Formulation and Functionality
This car carpet cleaner is a powerful concentrated detergent solution that can tackle stains, odors, dirt and grime. It’s phosphate-free, non-toxic and even septic safe. This product is highly concentrated, so you only need to use a little bit to get rid of tough stains.
Ease of Use
As the product is very concentrated, you only need a little bit. This product is super easy to use, and can even be used with any deep cleaning machine for a more thorough clean. For the toughest stains, we recommend applying the Hoover Pre-Treat Spray with this cleaner.
Possible Applications
This detergent solution can be used on carpets, area rugs, car interiors and upholstery. One product can get a lot of cleaning done!
Pros
- Lovely fresh linen scent
- Can be used on home upholstery and carpets
- Offers a powerful, deep clean
- Concentrated solution so a little goes a long way
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Not ideal for those with sensitive noses or fragrance allergies
A Complete Guide to Car Carpet Cleaners
It’s never a bad idea to have a can or jar of car carpet cleaner in your house. You never know when you’ll need to clean up a mess or spill. There are so many products out there that there’s bound to be one that will meet all of your requirements and needs.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Car Carpet Cleaners
Finding the right car carpet cleaner is no easy task. Other than the formulation and functionality, ease of use and possible applications, there are a lot of other factors that you need to take into consideration in order to find a cleaner that meets all your needs. Some other factors to consider include:
The Scent
Some people absolutely love a nicely scented cleaner, while those with sensitive noses may prefer something that’s unscented. If the car carpet cleaner is unscented, you’ll need to consider whether it has a natural smell from the chemicals that it contains. Some popular scents for car carpet cleaners include lavender, lemon and even mint. These scents can leave your car smelling fresh and new. This is a good choice if you like your cleaners to smell nice.
Overall Price
Don’t just look at the total price when considering the cost of a car carpet cleaner. Consider the amount of product that you get and the amount of product that you’ll have to use to get the desired results. If you’re concerned about price, go for this one.
The Amount
If you’re a soccer mom who is constantly taking your kids to soccer practice, you’re likely going to clean the carpets a lot more often than someone who happens to stay at home more often. It’d be in your best interest to look for a product that comes in a larger volume, so that one purchase can last for numerous cleanings.
Some consumers may also want to consider the type of packaging that the product comes in and whether the product is environmentally-friendly. Think about what you need before you start on your quest to find the perfect car carpet cleaner.
Useful Supplemental Tools to Have
Most of the car carpet cleaners that we’ve outlined in our guide can be used by themselves, or at least with a machine; however, if you have any of the following additional tools, you can also use them to expedite the cleaning process:
Carpet Steamers
Carpet steamers are great for cleaning particularly dirty carpets in no time. These machines use both suction and piping hot water to dislodge and remove dirt and debris. Some of these machines even have a place for you to add a car carpet cleaner. For an easier cleaning job, look for carpet steamers that are cordless.
Scrub Brushes With Tough Bristles
These brushes are best for getting tough stains out of carpets. They’ll loosen any dirt or debris that may be embedded within the carpet fibers for a more thorough clean. It’s best to avoid wire brushes, as these are best reserved for harder surfaces, like concrete or tiles. These tools are also great to have on hand for other cleaning tasks, and they’re extremely affordable.
Wet-Dry Vacuums
Wet and dry vacuums are similar to regular vacuums, but they can handle both liquid spills and dry messes. These vacuums are great for heavy cleaning and require very little maintenance. The only downside is that the filters need to be changed regularly.
Supplemental tools can enhance the overall effectiveness of the cleaning product, and can also make the cleaning job a lot easier to handle.
The Different Types of Car Carpet Cleaners
There are quite a few different car carpet cleaners on the market. The type that will be the best fit for your car will depend on your needs. For example, if you take your dog on muddy hikes all the time, you might want to find something that will not only get rid of the dirt, but also any unpleasant odors. If there are a lot of nooks and crannies in your car, you might need a carpet cleaner that can get into those hard-to-reach areas. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of car carpet cleaners below.
Aerosol
Aerosol spray cans are very popular when it comes to car carpet cleaners, as they offer a powerful foaming action that can evenly distribute the cleaning solution everywhere. One can of these products can usually easily clean a four-door sedan with a moderate amount of dirt and stains. These products also tend to have a longer shelf life, as the contents inside are protected from light and air. Aerosol containers are also typically considered to be safer and more durable in comparison to other types of packaging. They’re leak-proof, so they’re great for packing some of the stronger chemicals that may be used for cleaning carpets.
Deodorizing
Many car carpet cleaners are marketed as deodorizers as well. These cleaners will get rid of any unwanted scents and odors that may linger in your car using powerful encapsulating agents.
These cleaners do not simply cover up the odor using a fragrance. Instead, the encapsulating agents will bond with the odor molecules to permanently change their structure and eliminate them. Deodorizers add a fresh scent and offer long-lasting results. They neutralize the odor at its source and remove it forever.
Dry Powder
Dry carpet cleaners are not as popular as wet ones; however, these products are definitely worth looking at. These cleaning products rely on small, porous beads to attract all of the dirt and debris in the carpet. All you have to do is sprinkle some of the dry carpet cleaner powder onto the carpet and let it do its job. To remove the cleaner, simply vacuum it up. It’s fast, simple and easy!
There are many benefits to using a dry product. Carpet fibers are quite absorbent, and may absorb the water of wet detergents and cleaning solutions. This means that a small amount of residue may be left behind in the carpet, and this residue may end up damaging the carpet fibers in the long run. Some people believe that there’s a chance that wet products may worsen localized soiling. Dry cleaning products may also prevent mold and mildew growth.
Spray Bottle
Many people like car carpet cleaners packaged in spray bottles, especially if they don’t want to deal with the foaming power of aerosol or other types of packaging. With that said, it’s easy to aim the nozzle at a specific area and soak one spot of the carpet. This is why these cleaners will typically have formulas that target deep stains. Spray bottles can also help you aim at hard-to-reach areas with more ease.
Liquid Solutions
You can also purchase a huge tub or jar of cleaning solution. All you have to do is pour some of that solution onto the carpet and let it sit. Some of these liquid solutions are very concentrated, and you’ll need to dilute them first.
Five Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Your Car Carpets
You don’t need to be a professional to get your car carpets looking like new. All you need is a little experience, skill and the right car carpet cleaner like our top overall pick. If you’ve never tried cleaning your car’s carpet before, here are five tips and tricks that will help.
#1. Remove All Visible Debris, Trash, and Items
To get a good clean, you’ll want to apply the car carpet cleaning solution evenly. This means that you should remove all visible debris, trash and other items to ease the overall process. If the seats are in the way, move them forward or back. If they’re removable, you may even want to consider removing the seats entirely. Remove your car’s floor mats as well.
#2. ALWAYS Vacuum the Carpet Thoroughly First
A portable vacuum cleaner will come in handy when cleaning your carpets. Use special vacuum attachments to get into hard-to-reach areas, like under the seats. You want to get out as much dirt, grime, dust and crumbs as possible before applying the car carpet cleaner, so that it can easily penetrate deep into the carpet.
#3. Brush in the Cleaner Using Circular Motions
After letting the cleaner sit for several minutes, you’ll want to start brushing it into the carpet using circular motions. You should still do this even if you’re using an instant car carpet cleaner. With an instant car carpet cleaner, however, you’ll notice that the formula will start to dry within seconds, so you’ll need to start brushing within 1 to 2 seconds of applying it to your carpet.
Brushing in the car carpet cleaner using circular motions will help bring out dirt and grime that are locked in the carpet fibers. It can also help more efficiently remove some of the more stubborn stains that may have been sitting in your carpet for some time now.
#4. “Rinse” the Carpet With a Damp Cloth
While this is not always useful, some car carpet cleaners may recommend that you use a damp cloth to “rinse” the carpet afterward in order to remove as much residue as possible. This may also help in facilitating quicker drying. If you want to be fancy, you can even use a microfiber cloth. It’ll be gentler on the carpet fibers.
#5. Open All Doors and Windows for Faster Drying
Last but not least, keep all your doors and windows open when cleaning the carpets. This will help facilitate quicker drying, so you’ll get the job done in half the time. It’ll also prevent any mold, fungi or damp-loving microbes from finding a home in your car.
Check out this DIY video below for a more detailed walkthrough on how to clean the carpet in your car.
The Right Car Carpet Cleaner
Most car carpet cleaners will work like a charm. Dispense a little bit of product at a time, as a little can go a long way. If you find that there’s still a stain, or if you’re simply unhappy with the results, consider cleaning the carpets a few more times before calling it quits. This is especially true for pesky stains that you’ve allowed to sit for years. Soon, your car will be clean inside and out, and you can be happy with a job well done.
