How to Clean Your Car’s Interior Without Damaging It — and What Not to UseFirst for AutosWhitney DanhauerWed, September 16, 2026 at 3:04 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleMEGACleaning the inside of your car might seem straightforward, but grabbing the wrong cleaner from under the kitchen sink has the potential to do more harm than good.Consumer Reports warns that some common household cleaners aren't designed for the finishes found in modern vehicles and can cause permanent damage. Instead, its auto experts recommend using products specifically intended for automotive interiors.Start by removing trash, floor mats and other loose items before vacuuming hard-to-reach areas, seats and carpets. For stains on carpeting, the outlet recommends applying carpet cleaner lightly and working on the spot with a damp microfiber cloth rather than fully soaking the carpet. Doing that can lead to mold and unpleasant odors.AdvertisementAdvertisementDifferent surfaces in your vehicle also call for different treatment.For dashboards and interior trim, a clean microfiber cloth and automotive interior cleaner works great for most dirt and dust. However, Consumer Reports recommends avoiding paper towels, which can leave streaks, as well as household cleaners that could damage some surfaces.MEGAIf your car has a touchscreen, you'll need to be even more cautious. The outlet advises drivers not to spray cleaner directly on screens because some products can damage anti-glare or anti-fingerprint coatings. Plus, a clean, dry microfiber or eyeglass cloth might be all that's necessary.Leather and vinyl seats also need to be cleaned gently to avoid damage to their protective coating. After cleaning, it's smart to follow with an automotive leather conditioner to help prevent the material from drying out, which can lead to cracking.AdvertisementAdvertisementFinally, use a glass cleaner on the inside of the windshield and windows. Spray the product onto the cloth rather than directly onto the glass, however. This helps prevent the cleaner from landing on the dashboard and upholstery.If you're not sure whether a specific cleaner is OK to use on your vehicle, check the owner's manual for cleaning instructions for certain materials and surfaces.Read More From First For AutosWhat Is a VIN? Here's Where to Find Your Car's Vehicle Identification NumberWhat Does the 'B' on Your Car's Gear Shift Mean and When Should You Use It?Why Is Your Steering Wheel Shaking? Here's What It Could MeanThis story How to Clean Your Car's Interior Without Damaging It — and What Not to Use first appeared on First For Autos. Follow First For Autos on Yahoo so you don't miss what's coming next.