🧽 Step-by-Step Interior Care: Using Professional Products You Can Pick Up On-Site

Between winter salt, spring mud, and summer dust, Minnesota drivers know how quickly a clean interior can turn grimy. At Rice Street Car Wash in Maplewood, we don’t just help you wash the outside — we’ve stocked our shop with professional-grade car care products from Mothers, Meguiar’s, Lexol, and Armor All so you can keep your interior spotless too.

Whether you’re detailing after a road trip, or just keeping up with daily life, this easy guide will help you restore that clean-car feel — right at home or right here after your wash.

1️⃣ Gather Your Supplies

You don’t need a professional detailing kit to get professional results. A few quality products and the right tools make all the difference. Here’s what we recommend (all available in-store):

You will need few microfiber towels, a soft interior brush, and plan to use our free vacuums (for members) for the first step. We have all items available to purchase.

2️⃣ Vacuum and Remove Loose Dirt

Start by removing your floor mats, coins, and anything under the seats. Use the vacuum stations at Rice Street Car Wash — they have the suction power to lift sand, salt, and pet hair that standard home vacuums leave behind.

Work from top to bottom:

• Dash and vents first, then console and seats.

• Finish with carpets and mats.

This way, falling dust and crumbs don’t undo your work. For salt stains (a Minnesota classic), sprinkle a little warm water and mild cleaner before vacuuming — it loosens buildup for easier removal.

3️⃣ Clean Hard Surfaces

Now it’s time to make your dash and trim shine again — without the greasy look.

1. Spray Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer directly onto a microfiber towel (not the surface).

2. Wipe down the dashboard, console, steering wheel, and door panels.

3. Use a soft brush or Q-tip to reach vents and seams.

Pro Tip: Minnesota winters can leave a fine salt dust on your dashboard and plastics. Wipe gently to prevent micro-scratches.

4️⃣ Treat and Protect Leather or Vinyl

If your vehicle has leather seats or trim, proper conditioning is the secret to longevity.

1. Apply Lexol Leather Cleaner using a damp microfiber towel.

2. Wipe gently, lifting dirt and oils.

3. Follow with Lexol Conditioner to restore softness and add UV protection.

For vinyl or plastic surfaces, use Armor All Original Protectant. It not only restores shine but also protects against fading and cracking — something Minnesota sun and cold can easily cause.

5️⃣ Deep-Clean Carpets and Floor Mats

Floor mats take the brunt of Minnesota winters. To deep clean:

1. Spray Mothers Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner on mats and carpeted areas.

2. Scrub lightly with a soft brush.

3. Wipe or blot with a clean towel.

For stubborn salt rings, let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. If possible, hang mats to dry (use your self-serve bay mat racks if available).

6️⃣ Finishing Touches

• Glass: Use an interior glass cleaner for streak-free windows.

• Dust Check: Wipe over vents and touch screens with a dry microfiber.

• Scent: Add a light air freshener — subtle scents make every drive feel brand new.

Before you go, do a final once-over with our free vacuums (with membership) to pick up any leftover debris.

💡 Local Tip: Detail Right After You Wash

Many of our customers finish their touch-free wash and move straight into an interior refresh. It’s the perfect combo:

• Wash the outside in our Petit i360 automatic bay,

• Pull into the self-serve vacuum area,

• Use the products you just picked up inside to detail your interior.

Everything you need is right here at Rice Street Car Wash, Maplewood MN — from the rinse to the final wipe.

🚗 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to spend hundreds on a professional detailer. With the right tools and products, you can keep your car looking and smelling great all year long.

Next time you’re at Rice Street Car Wash, pick up your favorite Mothers, Meguiar’s, Lexol, or Armor All products and give your car the care it deserves.