[Briantime]

I am looking for a good way to clean the interior vinyl bits in my car. The vinyl is a very light color and there is some ground in dirt that can be seen in there I would like to remove. There is a fair amount of it in areas like the door panels and sun visors, etc.

The forum searches I have done have mostly yielded suggestions to use products like Lexol or 303 Aerospace which seem to be more used as a protectant than a cleaner.

I have considered giving the Magic Eraser a whirl as well.

I'm sure I am not the first one down this path so I thought I would see what suggestions the forum members may be able to give me. I appreciate any and all input.

 

[marko88]

Try some all-purpose cleaner or even some mild soapy water will generally work well. Light agitation with a toothbrush is a good idea too.

 

[macysum]

Try some all-purpose cleaner or even some mild soapy water will generally work well. Light agitation with a toothbrush is a good idea too.

Good choice marko88. Dawn works really well as far as soap suds goes but keep it on the mild side. It will get off most of the residues that might be on there (except that sticky ooze that MB vinyl sometimes turns into).

Use a liberal amount of that 303 Aerospace afterwards for UV protection and a nice sheen. It will last for days.

 

[LWB250]

I highly recommend 303 as it has a UV blocker in it that protects the surface. Since we're talking about a car who's interior gets far more sunlight than most, UV protection is a concern.

You can find it at boating supply places, as it's used quite heavily in the boating industry for vinyl bits on boats...

Dan

 

[rewillia]

I use "Clorox" wipes, just enough bleach not to hurt the leather/vinyl or dyes and they lift away dirt, oils, debris and stains well. They're cheap too.

 

[Pete S]

First off let me say that the Mr Clean magic eraser can quickly do damage to certain materials, make sure you test it somewhere first.

Last year I decided to give the interior a real good cleaning. I ended up using Zymol Leather Cleaner, a 1" round paint brush with medium bristles and a bunch of towels. Took a few hours of spraying the cleaner and using the paint brush in swirling and back and forth motions to remove ground in dirt but results were wonderful both on leather and vinyl, even cleaned the stitching on the seats. I then used Zymol leather conditioner on the leather and Meguiars natural shine and protectant everywhere else.

I have never used the 303 stuff. Does it leave a glossy finish?

 

[macysum]

I have never used the 303 stuff. Does it leave a glossy finish?

Pete, from their product info:

Matte finish with no oily and greasy residue
Keeps treated surfaces looking new
Prevents fading and cracking
Restores lost color and luster
Powerful UV blockers
Anti-Static, repels smudges, dust, soiling and staining
Easy to use, simply spray on and wipe dry
Safe and effective for vinyl, clear vinyl, gel-coat, fiberglass, carbon fiber, synthetic/natural rubber, plastics and finished leather


Usage Directions
Use only on clean surfaces. Out of direct sun, spray surface with 303® Aerospace Protectant™ and WIPE COMPLETELY DRY. If streaking occurs, too much product has been used. Use a wet towel to remove excess, IMMEDIATELY WIPE COMPLETELY DRY. Note: this product does not air dry.. Extra buffing with a dry cloth INCREASES bonding, repellency & longevity. Apply every 3-5 weeks for maximum UV protection. Great for use on a variety of surfaces such as: vinyl, leather, plastics, synthetic & natural rubber, eisenglass, PVC, teak, gel coat & fiberglass. Not for use on unfinished leathers (such as suede), fabrics (canvas) or floorings.

 

[Pete S]

Thanks for the info @macysum. The old school ArmourAll Glossy look is one of my least favorites, even years ago I would only wipe my car down with a damp rag but now Matte finish cleaners/protectants are readily available. Not sure if the local parts stores have the 303 as I don't think I ever saw it for sale but will have a look. I'm sure I can get it from Amazon.

I know the Meguairs Natural Shine I use also has UV protection so at the moment not too worried. Anyone use both the Meguiars and 303? If so any opinions?

 

[macysum]

My experience with meguairs is mixed. They have some fantastic stuff but they try to serve the entire DIY detailing market...not just enthusiasts. Some of their products are very substandard IMO.

303 Aerospace is tried and true and made for airplane interiors that sit and bake in the hot sun on Tarmac. It's water-based and although not easy to find at your favorite auto parts store it is a staple in my garage.

Dan says you can find it at Marine supply store...that makes sense as boat interiors do bake a bit in the sun as well.

 

[LWB250]

My experience with meguairs is mixed. They have some fantastic stuff but they try to serve the entire DIY detailing market...not just enthusiasts. Some of their products are very substandard IMO.

303 Aerospace is tried and true and made for airplane interiors that sit and bake in the hot sun on Tarmac. It's water-based and although not easy to find at your favorite auto parts store it is a staple in my garage.

Dan says you can find it at Marine supply store...that makes sense as boat interiors do bake a bit in the sun as well.

I have used 303 for years, and living in Florida I swear by it. The boat folks love it as well, as it protect things like seat cushions and the like that's exposed to the sun for long periods of time.

West Marine is a good place to find it. They are all over the place, and always have it on the shelf. Be aware that it's not cheap, but it does last a while.

I don't use anything made by ArmorAll, as in the past their products had silicones in them. A bad, bad thing to have around vinyl and especially painted surfaces. I don't know if this is still the case, but I never liked their stuff as it made everything shiny, like the crap used car dealers spray on engines to make them look "nice".

Dan

 

[Briantime]

I did a store search on the manufacturer's site for 303.

Nearby stores where I can purchase included NAPA and Autozone. I'm definitely going to pick some up as everything I have read has been extremely positive on this product.

 

[luigi4]

well if you are asking me about cleaning i use rubbing alcohol from 25% to 100% also white vinegar cut
love it
very good with vinyl, plastic, carpet, cuts (lol), glass, wood,
leather 25% to 60% test first will take dirt off, too much will soften the dye
mr clean i use but remember its like wet and dry sandpaper ( use a light hand with it ) great for light scratches on the car paint..look up on youtube..
i clean because i'm a clean freak do not like dirt anywhere. LZ
ps.i like lexol to keep it soft. NOTE think i'm going to try the 303 too
leather should not shine that is a sigh of heavy dirt build up.LZ
JUST MY 2 CENTS remember what i do and use is for me, if you try please use your own style. LZ

 

[Midnightsun]

We all have tried literally thousands of $'s worth of cleaning products to finally come up with a miracle product. I found this a couple of years back. Simply amazing, use it on the boat all the time and used it on the Mercedes last summer with unbelievable results. You need to use the sponge and product together for the best possible results. Try this and you will be hooked for life. Z-Tuff Products Z-Cleaner