Your dashboard and console are the first things you see when you get in your car—so why let dust, fingerprints, and coffee spills ruin the vibe? In Los Angeles, where the sun loves to bake dirt into every crack, regular cleaning isn’t optional—it’s essential. Follow these pro tips to clean your car’s dashboard and console like a pro and keep your ride looking fresh and stylish.
What You’ll Need
Microfiber towels (because paper towels are for amateurs)
Soft detailing brush (for vents and cracks)
Interior cleaner (pH-balanced and safe for plastics and vinyl)
Screen-safe cleaner (for touchscreens)
Compressed air can (optional, but handy)
UV protectant spray (to prevent sun damage)
Pro Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals like ammonia and bleach—they’ll dry out plastics and leave your dashboard looking like an old leather boot.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Dashboard and Console
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Dust
Start by removing loose dust from the dashboard, vents, and console:
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Use a soft detailing brush to sweep dust out of vents, buttons, and crevices.
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Blast stubborn dust with a compressed air can—perfect for cracks and cup holders.
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Wipe the dashboard and console with a dry microfiber towel to pick up loose dirt.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step—spraying cleaner on a dusty surface turns dust into a sticky mess.
Step 2: Clean the Dashboard and Console
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Spray a mild interior cleaner onto a microfiber towel—not directly onto the dashboard.
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Wipe down the entire dashboard, center console, and steering wheel.
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For stubborn spots (like coffee spills or sunscreen smudges), spray cleaner directly onto the stain and gently scrub with the microfiber towel.
Warning: Avoid getting cleaner on electronic screens or buttons—moisture and electronics don’t mix.
Step 3: Clean Air Vents and Small Crevices
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Use a detailing brush to remove dirt from air vents and seams.
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If dirt is stubborn, lightly spray cleaner onto the brush and scrub gently.
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For tight spaces (like around buttons and knobs), wrap a microfiber towel around a plastic trim tool or your finger for precise cleaning.
Step 4: Clean Touchscreens and Infotainment Displays
Touchscreens collect fingerprints faster than LA traffic collects brake lights. Clean them safely with:
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A screen-safe cleaner or damp microfiber towel (no harsh chemicals!)
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Wipe gently in a circular motion—don’t press too hard, or you might damage the screen.
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Use a dry microfiber towel to remove streaks and restore that factory-fresh look.
Warning: Never use glass cleaner or household cleaners on touchscreens—they can damage the anti-glare coating.
Step 5: Protect the Dashboard from Sun Damage
LA’s sun isn’t just bad for your skin—it’s brutal on your dashboard, too. After cleaning:
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Apply a UV protectant spray to prevent cracking, fading, and discoloration.
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Spray the protectant onto a microfiber towel and wipe it evenly across the dashboard and console.
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Buff with a clean towel to remove excess product and avoid a greasy finish.
Pro Tip: Choose a non-greasy protectant—nobody wants a shiny dashboard that reflects sunlight into their eyes.
Step 6: Clean Cup Holders and Storage Compartments
Cup holders are magnets for sticky spills and crumbs. Here’s how to clean them:
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Spray cleaner directly into the cup holders and scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
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For sticky residue, let the cleaner sit for a minute before wiping with a microfiber towel.
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Don’t forget to clean the glove box, center console, and door pockets—they collect dirt faster than you think.
Pro Tip: Use silicone cup holder liners to catch future spills—they’re easy to remove and clean.
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Dashboard and Console
Avoid eating in the car: Crumbs and spills are harder to clean than they are to prevent.
Wipe down the dashboard weekly: A quick wipe with a dry microfiber towel keeps dust at bay.
Park in the shade: Reduces heat damage and keeps your dashboard from cracking.
Use an air freshener: A clean dashboard isn’t complete without a fresh scent—just don’t go overboard.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using household cleaners: Harsh chemicals damage plastics and leave a greasy residue.
Skipping the protectant: Without UV protection, your dashboard will crack and fade over time.
Spraying cleaner directly onto the dashboard: Always spray onto the towel to prevent overspray on electronics.
When to Call the Pros
If your dashboard is stained, scratched, or faded, professional detailing can restore it to like-new condition. At WASH&WHIPS, we specialize in interior detailing services that remove dirt, restore plastic trim, and protect against UV damage. Contact us today and let our pros make your dashboard look brand new—because life’s too short to drive a dirty car.
