The 5-Minute Interior Reset — Fast Wins That Make Your Cabin Feel Brand New

Marcy Tran
Nov 13
2 min read

It doesn’t take an hour to feel good behind the wheel — just five minutes. A quick interior refresh once a week keeps your car feeling fresh, protects materials, and saves you from ever having to do a massive deep clean again.

1. Start with the Vacuum

Pull the floor mats out and hit every corner. Use the crevice tool around seat rails and between cushions, then switch to a soft brush for vents and dash. Don’t underestimate how different your car feels when you’ve removed crumbs, hair, and grit. It’s sensory therapy.

2. Blow It Out Like a Pro

High-pressure air lifts sand and dirt trapped deep in carpet fibers. If you don’t have a compressor, stop by IQ Carwash near the high school — they’ve got air guns at the vacuums. Blow seams, pedals, and console edges. Follow up with a vacuum pass to pull it all up.

3. Door Jambs and Hidden Edges

Wipe those greasy door edges and sills with a damp microfiber towel and all-purpose cleaner. Every time you open your doors, you’ll see and feel that clean difference.

4. Floor Mats Matter

Shake, spray, scrub. For rubber mats, use a stiff brush and all-purpose cleaner. When they dry, bring back that deep black finish with this ash-free, non-greasy restorer — see it here.

5. Cupholders and Consoles

Soak a rag in warm water and a bit of APC, twist it inside the cupholders, then follow with a Q-tip or detail brush around the edges. For sticky residue, a quick burst of steam works wonders — grab one like this.

6. Steering Wheel Reality Check

It’s grosser than a restroom handle. Use mild cleaner and a soft brush to lift grime, then wipe with a clean microfiber. When no milky residue remains, it’s finally clean.

✨ Pro Tip: For stubborn buildup and a safe all-purpose cleaner, keep ONR on hand — find it here.