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Best Cleaner For Car Upholstery (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for the best cleaner for car upholstery, there are several factors you need to consider before making a purchase. First, you’ll want to determine the type of upholstery in your car, as different materials require different cleaning methods and products. You’ll also want to consider any allergies or sensitivities you or your passengers may have to certain ingredients in cleaners. Additionally, it’s important to look for a product that is easy to use and effective in removing stains and odors without damaging the upholstery.

When searching for the best cleaner for car upholstery, it’s important to look for a product that is specifically formulated for automotive use. This can ensure that the cleaner is gentle enough for the delicate materials commonly used in car interiors, while still being effective in removing dirt, stains, and other contaminants. Some cleaners may also offer additional benefits, such as conditioning agents that can help maintain the softness and suppleness of your car’s upholstery.

To determine the best cleaner for your car upholstery, you may want to ask yourself a few questions. Do you have pets or small children that frequently ride in your car, leading to more messes and stains? Are you looking for a product that is eco-friendly and free of harsh chemicals? Do you want a cleaner that can double as a protectant, helping to prevent future stains and damage? By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the best cleaner for your car upholstery and keep your car looking its best.

10 Best Cleaner For Car Upholstery

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for cleaning and removing ground-in soils and stains from automotive and residential carpet and upholstery.
2
The product is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from carpets and upholstery.
3
The product is ideal for deeply cleaning and penetrating water-safe fabrics and fibers of upholstery, clothing, rugs, and carpeting.
4
It is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from carpets and upholstery.
5
The product is ideal for cleaning fabric and upholstery stains.
6
Ideal for cleaning various vehicles such as cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs, and more with a citrus scent.
7
The product is ideal for cleaning upholstery and carpets in cars, effectively lifting tough stains with powerful foaming action.
8
This product is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from car seats, upholstery, and other surfaces in cars and homes.
9
The product is ideal for cleaning and removing odors from upholstery and carpets.
10
Ideal for spot cleaning carpets and upholstery with its portable design and powerful suction capabilities.
It is ideal for cleaning and removing ground-in soils and stains from automotive and residential carpet and upholstery.
The product is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from carpets and upholstery.
The product is ideal for deeply cleaning and penetrating water-safe fabrics and fibers of upholstery, clothing, rugs, and carpeting.
It is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from carpets and upholstery.
The product is ideal for cleaning fabric and upholstery stains.
Ideal for cleaning various vehicles such as cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, RVs, and more with a citrus scent.
The product is ideal for cleaning upholstery and carpets in cars, effectively lifting tough stains with powerful foaming action.
This product is ideal for cleaning and removing stains from car seats, upholstery, and other surfaces in cars and homes.
The product is ideal for cleaning and removing odors from upholstery and carpets.
Ideal for spot cleaning carpets and upholstery with its portable design and powerful suction capabilities.

1. Malco Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Stain Remover Solution

Malco Products brings you their specially formulated cleaner that is designed to remove ground-in soils and stains from automotive carpet and upholstery. This powerful cleaner is highly effective and can remove even the toughest of stains with ease.

The best part? You don't need any heavy machinery! This cleaner speeds up spot and stain removal when cleaning without extraction. It's perfect for those who want a quick and easy solution to cleaning their car's interior.

This cleaner is designed to lift and dissolve soils for complete cleaning in just a matter of minutes. It removes a wide variety of automotive soils and stains from both synthetic and natural fibers, ensuring a thorough clean.

The concentrated formula can be diluted up to 1:20, making it a cost-effective solution for those on a budget.

Malco Products has been providing powerful cleaning and detailing products and accessories since 1953. You can trust in their expertise and experience to keep your car spotless and clean, inside and out.

Invest in Malco Products' automotive cleaner today and enjoy a clean and fresh-smelling car in no time!

2. Chemical Guys Spi_191_16 Lightning Fast Carpet And Upholstery Stain Extractor (16 Oz)

Lightning Fast is a highly effective stain extractor that is designed to lift and remove tough stains from carpets, upholstery, and fabric. With its powerful formula, this product can penetrate deep into the surface of the material to dissolve stains quickly and easily.

This amazing product is a two-in-one solution that can handle both mistakes and spills. Lightning Fast is boosted with strong cleaning agents that penetrate deep, dissolve stains, and then emulsify and lift dirt and debris to the surface.

Despite its powerful cleaning capabilities, Lightning Fast is gentle on fabric and upholstery. You don't need to worry about hard scrubbing or brushing to remove set-in stains, dirt, grease, or grime. Simply spray, agitate, and wipe to tackle even the most stubborn stains.

One of the best features of this cleaner is its ability to eliminate odors. Lightning Fast is blended with odor-eliminating enzymes that destroy odors at the source, leaving behind a fresh, clean scent.

When it comes to car care products, Chemical Guys is the go-to brand for beginners and professionals alike. Not only do they offer the finest car care products, but they also provide world-class customer support and vast detailing knowledge. Chemical Guys is more than a brand – it's a lifestyle with a worldwide following.

3. Water-Safe Fabric & Upholstery Cleaner.

This powerful stain remover is the perfect solution for anyone looking to effectively remove both oil and water-based stains from their carpet, rugs, upholstery, and other water-safe fabrics. With its WoolSafe approved formula, you can be confident that this cleaner is not only effective but also safe for use on your carpets.

One of the biggest advantages of this stain remover is that stains will not reappear after cleaning. This means that you can say goodbye to unsightly stains that keep coming back even after you've cleaned them. With this stain remover, you can rest assured that the stains have been completely removed.

This product is specifically designed for use on water-safe fabrics, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to clean their carpets, rugs, or upholstery. Simply apply the cleaner to the affected area and let it work its magic. The powerful formula will penetrate deep into the fibers of your fabrics, breaking down and removing even the toughest stains.

In addition to being highly effective, this stain remover is also WoolSafe approved, meaning that it has been tested and approved as safe for use on carpets. This is an important consideration for anyone looking to preserve the quality and longevity of their carpets and other water-safe fabrics.

4. Meguiar's G9719 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – 19 Oz.

This professional-strength carpet and upholstery cleaner is designed to effectively remove stains and odors from your car's interior. With its deep cleaning power, it easily lifts dirt and grime from carpets and upholstery, leaving your car looking and smelling like new.

The activating foam in this cleaner is fast-acting and penetrates deep into the fibers of your car's carpet and upholstery, dissolving stains from the bottom up for a truly thorough clean. It dries quickly without leaving any sticky residue behind, ensuring that your car's interior stays clean and fresh for longer.

This cleaner comes with a dual purpose sprayer that gives you complete control, allowing you to target specific stains with a narrow stream or perform general cleaning with a wide mist spray. Whether you need to clean a small spot or the entire car interior, this cleaner has you covered.

With its professional-strength formula, this carpet and upholstery cleaner delivers like-new results, leaving your car's interior looking and smelling fresh. It's a must-have for any car owner looking to keep their vehicle in top condition.

5. Bissell Spot & Stain Fabric And Upholstery Cleaner, 9351,12 Ounce , Blue

Introducing the Fabric Safe Brush, a must-have tool for anyone looking to safely and effectively clean their upholstery and carpet fibers. This patented brush features a fabric-safe design that gently loosens stains and soils without damaging delicate fabrics.

With the Fabric Safe Brush, you can quickly and easily clean up spots and spills on your sofa, chairs, and other upholstered items. Plus, the brush helps repel dirt and stains, keeping your fabrics looking cleaner for longer.

Before using the Fabric Safe Brush, it is important to test a small, hidden area for colorfastness and examine it when dry. If the color of the fabric is affected, do not use the brush. When cleaning upholstery, be sure to look for the manufacturer's cleanability code tag and only use the Fabric Safe Brush on fabrics coded "WS" or "W." Do not use on fabrics coded "X" and "S" or on velvet, silk, or leather.

This versatile and effective tool is perfect for anyone looking to keep their home looking its best. So why wait? Order your Fabric Safe Brush today and experience the difference for yourself!

6. Citrus Speed Detailer By Chemical Guys.

Introducing the versatile all-purpose cleaner, All Clean+. This powerful cleaning solution cuts through all types of dirt, grease, and grime with the natural power of citrus. It can be used inside, outside, or even underneath your vehicle, making it the ideal choice for all your cleaning needs.

All Clean+ comes at full strength and can be diluted to clean any automotive surface, making it an excellent choice for carpets, tires, plastics, and engine bay parts. This advanced super cleaner is blended with foaming technology, which ensures a deep cleaning on any surface. The foam spreads into cracks and crevices to remove dirt and grime from hard-to-reach places.

The high-tech citrus-based cleaning formula is easy to use and delivers outstanding results. When used as directed, it removes filth and dirt without changing the surface texture or look on plastics, metals, paints, carpets, cloths, or rubber surfaces. All Clean+ is a safe and effective way to clean your vehicle without causing any damage.

Chemical Guys is the go-to brand for car care, and All Clean+ is no exception. Both beginners and professionals choose Chemical Guys for their exceptional car care products and world-class customer support. With vast detailing knowledge, Chemical Guys is more than just a brand; it's a lifestyle with a worldwide following.

7. Stoner's Tough Carpet Stain Fighter.

This water-based cleaner is a powerful solution that is gentle on all surfaces. It can easily lift tough stains from carpets, upholstery, velour, fabrics, automotive seating, floor mats, headliners, and door panels. Its thick foaming action works effectively to lift dirt and debris to the surface in just 30-60 seconds, making it easy to wipe away. Unlike other cleaners that leave carpets wet and saturated, this cleaner provides dry cleaning power. It is incredibly easy to use, simply spray it directly on the stained surface, then brush and vacuum to remove stains.

This cleaner is designed to provide quality results, drying quickly with no sticky film or residue left behind. It is formulated, manufactured, and distributed in the USA, setting it apart from major competitors. The makers take pride in using superior ingredients to provide customers with exceptional car care products.

With this cleaner, customers can enjoy a powerful and effective cleaning solution that is gentle on all surfaces. Its foaming action is perfect for lifting tough stains, making it a popular choice among car owners. The quick-drying formula ensures that no residue is left behind, leaving surfaces looking and feeling clean. It is also incredibly easy to use, making it a convenient option for those who want to keep their cars looking their best. Overall, this cleaner is a great investment for anyone looking to keep their car clean, and it is sure to provide quality results that customers can rely on.

8. Foam Clean Car & Home Kit

Introducing the Car Magic Foam Cleaner, a multi-purpose foaming cleaner that effectively removes grease, dirt, and stubborn stains to give your car interior a new look. This all-purpose cleaner is also ideal for use on furniture, car dashboards, consoles, leather car trim, and other surfaces, as it resists fading, aging, cracking, and provides UV protection.

The gentle yet effective concentrated formula easily emulsifies oil and dirt that comes into contact with thick lather without harming hands or objects. It lifts away built-in dirt, leaving a non-greasy, dry, and odor-free matte finish. This multi-purpose foam cleaner is not only suitable for cars, but it can also be used in the kitchen, bathroom, furniture, and floor.

Using the Car Magic Foam Cleaner is easy. Simply spray the cleaner directly onto the desired area and wipe with a towel or sponge until the stain is removed. There is no need to rinse, and after cleaning, simply wipe off the lather with a towel. This versatile cleaner is also perfect for kitchen and furniture cleaning.

With its effective cleaning power and versatility, the Car Magic Foam Cleaner is an excellent addition to any cleaning routine. It nourishes surfaces and keeps them clean and fresh, leaving them looking like new. Say goodbye to tough stains and dirt with this multi-purpose foam cleaner.

9. Blue Coral Dc22 Upholstery Cleaner Dri-Clean Plus With Odor Eliminator, 22.8 Oz. Aerosol

This powerful interior cleaner is the perfect solution for removing tough stains and soils from carpets, upholstery and floor mats. It is specially formulated to effectively tackle grease, tar, coffee, lipstick, ink, blood stains and more. With this versatile cleaner, you can easily lift stains and restore the look of your interior surfaces.

The easy-to-use brush cap is designed to help you remove ground-in stains and soils with ease. Simply apply the cleaner directly to the affected area and use the brush cap to agitate the stain. The powerful formula will work quickly to break down the stain, making it easy to wipe away.

It is important to note that this cleaner should not be used on suede, leather, silk, velvet or clear plastic. However, for all other surfaces, this cleaner is a highly effective and reliable solution for removing even the toughest stains.

In addition to its powerful stain-fighting capabilities, this interior cleaner is also easy to use and highly convenient. With its simple application process and effective results, it is the perfect choice for anyone looking to restore the look of their interior surfaces. So if you're looking for a reliable and effective interior cleaner, look no further than this powerful and versatile solution.

10. Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet And Upholstery Cleaner, 1400b

The BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser Corded Handheld Carpet Cleaner is a powerful and versatile tool that is perfect for pet owners. With every purchase, BISSELL supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which helps to save homeless pets. The corded cleaner has a hose length of 4 feet and a power rating of 3 amps, making it easy to remove spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors and more. Its power cord length is 15 feet, providing ample mobility during use.

This cleaner is specifically designed to tackle tough pet stains with its strong spray and suction capabilities. It has a large tank capacity of 48 ounces, which means users can clean more between refills. The BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser Corded Handheld Carpet Cleaner comes with a range of tools to make cleaning easier. These include a 3" Tough Stain Tool, a HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool, and an 8oz trial-size Spot & Stain with Febreze Freshness formula.

The 3" Tough Stain Tool is perfect for removing stubborn spots and stains, while the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool makes it easy to clean the hose after use. The 8oz trial-size Spot & Stain with Febreze Freshness formula eliminates odors and leaves a fresh scent behind. The cleaner also comes with certain trademarks used under license from The Procter & Gamble Company or its affiliates.

Best Cleaner For Car Upholstery FAQs

Are there any natural or eco-friendly cleaners for car upholstery?

Yes, there are natural and eco-friendly cleaners available for car upholstery. These cleaners are not only safe for the environment but also for your health and well-being. One of the most popular natural cleaners is vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can effectively remove stains, dirt, and grime from car upholstery. Simply mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle, and spray the solution onto the upholstery. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a clean cloth.

Another effective natural cleaner is baking soda. Baking soda can remove tough stains and unpleasant odors from car upholstery. Mix baking soda with water to make a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth.

There are also eco-friendly cleaners available in the market that are made from plant-based ingredients. These cleaners are free from harsh chemicals and are safe for the environment. Look for cleaners that are labeled as "biodegradable" or "environmentally friendly" to ensure that you're using a product that is safe for the environment.

Can I use a steam cleaner to clean my car's upholstery?

Yes, steam cleaning is a great way to clean your car's upholstery. Steam cleaners use high-pressure steam to effectively clean and sanitize surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing. A steam cleaner can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors from your car's upholstery, leaving it looking and smelling fresh.

Before using a steam cleaner, it's important to vacuum your car's upholstery to remove any loose dirt and debris. Then, test the steam cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it won't damage or discolor the upholstery. Once you've verified that the steam cleaner is safe to use, you can begin cleaning your car's upholstery.

When using a steam cleaner, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Use the appropriate attachment for the type of upholstery you are cleaning and move the steam cleaner slowly and methodically over each area. After cleaning, allow the upholstery to dry completely before using your car again.

Can I use household products to clean my car's upholstery?

While it may be tempting to use household cleaning products to clean your car's upholstery, it is generally not recommended. Household cleaning products are not designed specifically for automotive upholstery and can potentially damage the material or leave behind residue that is difficult to remove.

Instead, it is best to use cleaning products that are specifically formulated for automotive upholstery. These products are designed to effectively clean and protect the material without causing damage or leaving behind residue.

Additionally, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using any cleaning product on your car's upholstery. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the product does not cause any adverse effects before using it on a larger area.

In summary, while it may be tempting to use household cleaning products on your car's upholstery, it is best to use products specifically designed for automotive use and to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid any damage or adverse effects.

Do different types of upholstery require different types of cleaners?

Yes, different types of upholstery require different types of cleaners. This is because each type of upholstery has its own unique properties, which means that certain cleaning products and techniques may be too harsh or ineffective for certain materials.

For example, leather upholstery requires a different cleaner than fabric upholstery. Leather is a natural material that needs to be treated with care to avoid damaging it. Special leather cleaners are designed to gently clean leather without causing any damage or discoloration.

On the other hand, fabric upholstery can be made from a variety of different materials, such as cotton, polyester, and microfiber. Each of these materials requires a different type of cleaner to effectively remove dirt and stains without damaging the fabric.

It's important to read the label on your upholstery to determine the type of material it is made from and to choose a cleaner that is specifically designed for that material. Using the wrong cleaner can cause permanent damage to your upholstery, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and choose a cleaner that is safe for your specific type of upholstery.

How do I choose the right cleaner for my car's upholstery?

Choosing the right cleaner for your car's upholstery is crucial to maintain the appearance and durability of your car's interior. The first step is to identify the type of upholstery your car has, whether it's leather, vinyl or fabric. Leather requires a mild cleaner that won't damage the material, and vinyl can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution. Fabric upholstery requires a more specialized cleaner to remove stains and dirt effectively. Before purchasing any cleaner, it's essential to read the label and check if it's safe to use on your car's upholstery. You can also consult your car's owner manual or a professional detailer for recommendations. It's crucial to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first and observe any adverse reactions before applying it to the entire upholstery. Always follow the instructions carefully and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the upholstery. With the right cleaner, you can keep your car's upholstery clean and looking new for longer.

How often should I clean my car's upholstery?

The frequency of cleaning your car's upholstery depends on various factors, such as the usage, climate, and the type of material used. Ideally, it is recommended to clean the interior of your car every three to six months. However, if you have pets or frequently eat or drink in your car, you may need to clean it more often. Additionally, if you live in an area with high humidity or extreme temperatures, it may lead to the growth of mold and bacteria, which can have a significant impact on your health, so it is vital to get your car's upholstery cleaned regularly.

Cleaning the upholstery not only keeps it looking fresh and new, but it also helps to remove dirt, dust, and allergens that can accumulate over time. You can clean the upholstery yourself using a vacuum cleaner, upholstery cleaner, and a soft brush. However, if you want a more thorough cleaning, it's best to take your car to a professional auto detailing service. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to clean your upholstery effectively and safely.

Should I hire a professional to clean my car's upholstery?

Yes, hiring a professional to clean your car's upholstery is a wise decision. While it may be tempting to clean the upholstery yourself, professional services have the expertise, equipment, and materials to clean your car's upholstery thoroughly and safely.

Car upholstery can accumulate dirt, stains, and bacteria over time, which can be difficult to remove without the proper tools and cleaning solutions. Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and solutions to effectively remove dirt and stains from your car's upholstery, leaving it looking and feeling like new.

Additionally, attempting to clean your car's upholstery on your own can potentially damage the material or leave behind residue that can attract more dirt and stains. Professional cleaners have the knowledge and experience to identify the appropriate cleaning method for your car's specific upholstery material, ensuring that it is properly cleaned without causing any damage.

Overall, hiring a professional to clean your car's upholstery is a smart investment that can help prolong the life of your upholstery and maintain the value of your car.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when cleaning car upholstery?

Cleaning car upholstery is an important task that helps to maintain the overall aesthetics of your vehicle. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when cleaning car upholstery that you should avoid.

Firstly, using too much water can be a mistake. While it is important to use enough water to clean the upholstery, using too much can lead to mold and mildew growth. Secondly, using harsh chemicals can also be a mistake. Some chemicals can damage the upholstery and cause discoloration.

Another common mistake is not vacuuming before cleaning. It is important to vacuum the upholstery before cleaning to remove any loose dirt and debris. Additionally, using the wrong cleaning tool can also be a mistake. Using a brush that is too stiff can damage the upholstery, while using a brush that is too soft may not effectively clean the upholstery.

Lastly, not allowing the upholstery to dry completely can be a mistake. Damp upholstery can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can be harmful to your health. Therefore, it is important to allow the upholstery to dry completely before using the car again.

What are some tips for maintaining clean car upholstery?

Maintaining clean car upholstery is important for the overall appearance and hygiene of your vehicle. Here are some tips to help you keep your car upholstery clean:

1. Vacuum regularly: Regularly vacuuming your car's upholstery is the best way to remove dirt, dust, and debris that accumulates over time. Use a handheld vacuum or a brush attachment to get into the crevices and hard-to-reach areas.

2. Use a fabric cleaner: If your upholstery is stained or has tough-to-remove spots, use a fabric cleaner specifically designed for car upholstery. Test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Clean up spills immediately: If you spill something on your car upholstery, clean it up immediately. Use a clean cloth to blot the spill, and avoid rubbing it in. This will prevent the stain from setting in.

4. Protect your upholstery: Consider using a protective spray or sealant to prevent stains and spills from penetrating the upholstery. This will make it easier to clean up any messes that do occur.

By following these tips, you can help keep your car upholstery looking clean and fresh for years to come.

What is the best cleaner for car upholstery?

When it comes to cleaning car upholstery, it is important to choose a cleaner that is effective yet gentle enough to not damage the fabric. The best cleaner for car upholstery is one that is specifically designed for automotive interiors and is safe to use on a variety of materials such as leather, vinyl, and fabric.

One popular option is a foaming upholstery cleaner that can be easily applied and wiped away with a damp cloth. This type of cleaner is effective in removing dirt, stains, and odors from the upholstery without leaving any residue.

Another option is a steam cleaner, which uses hot water and steam to deep clean and sanitize the upholstery. This method is particularly effective in removing tough stains and bacteria from the fabric.

It is important to always read the instructions and test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the upholstery before using it on the entire surface. Additionally, regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent the buildup of dirt and stains on car upholstery, prolonging its lifespan and keeping it looking like new.

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