Even if you take the utmost care of your ride as a car owner, eventually cleaning the carpets will be a necessity. The heavy traction and inevitability of debris will render it filthy over time, however there are ways to restore the fibers to have them looking brand new. Additionally, with the proper cleaners, the odor can have that coveted ‘new car’ smell. Auto detailers are the experts in getting vehicles back to showroom caliber quality, so what do they use on carpeting?

“Similar to how bleach is more effective at getting stains out of a white t-shirt, the same is true of shampoo, in that some are better equipped than others… detailers use automotive grade chemicals that penetrate deep within the carpet”

Vacuum Regardless Of Carpet Type

Various threads and fibers encompass hundreds of carpeting types, but no matter which your car is full of, vacuuming is essential. It is a mistake to assume you do not need to vacuum if you do not see any visible debris. Dust and foreign particles are embedded, and the longer they are there the harder they will be to get out. This is why carpet mats smell old and musty after years of neglect. Vacuuming should be carried out with a high powered suction source in vertical lines, just as you would address your household.

Air Compressors Help Problem Areas

Automotive experts do not always need them, but sometimes an air compressor is helpful in clearing difficult spaces. These include things like pet hair and hard to reach folds. If you ever decide to use a compressor, it is essential you start from a distance to guarantee there is not too much force on the carpeting itself.

Match Shampoo With Fiber Type

If you are in the boat of not knowing what type of fibers are in your car’s carpeting, checking the shampoo labels will notify you if you are safe to use the detergent in most cases. Similar to how bleach is more effective at getting stains out of a white t-shirt, the same is true of shampoo, in that some are better equipped than others. Detailers use automotive grade chemicals that penetrate deep within the carpet. This is applied through a shampooer that they run over fiber-filled areas numerous times.

Steam Cleaning In Extreme Cases

Steam cleaning devices are different than standard carpet shampooers because they use more heat for extraction. The warm, (sometimes near boiling) water lifts stains effortlessly, but if you have thin fibers it will tear them out of the mat. Cleaning with high temperatures should only be used if a detailer recommends it. Not every patch of carpeting can withstand its strength.

Spill-Resistant Guarding And Bristled Scrubbing

Professionals frequently apply a layer of liquid-resistant spray or foam to combat against spills and rain water. This is delivered by aerosol roughly 6 inches away from each carpet piece you need to treat. If there are particularly stubborn stains that even shampooers can’t eradicate, a soft bristled brush can spot check and aide in the process.

Conclusion

Clean carpets are something that need to be taken care of weekly, monthly, or every few months (depending on your unique driving habits and requirements) if you utilize the skills of a professional auto detailer. With their technique and precision they have each vehicle looking and smelling as pristine as the day it was purchased.