Cleaning and Caring for a Classic Car/Truck Interior
Cleaning and caring for your classic is not like your normal everyday car. We made a quick list of tips we’ve learned from our own experience and with suggestions from our own customers.
1. Yes Armor All Can Dry Out Your Dash Pad
Okay just to be upfront this statement isn’t backed by any research or analysis of chemicals in Armor All. But from our experience and many of our customers Armor All may not crack a dash by itself, but it possibly doesn’t protect it enough. Vinyl is damaged mainly by the UV rays and heat from sitting in the sun. As the UV rays break down the molecules in the vinyl on a dash, these molecules can also leave a haze on the glass above the dash pad. To combat the this breakage we recommend using a UV protector like 303. One thing that’s nice about 303 is it doesn’t leave the incredibly glossy finish like armor all, which brings us to the next point.
We’re not affiliated nor paid for this 303 link, we just like using it:
2. A Restored Finish Interior Or A Patina Look?
Okay maybe there is a such thing as too much of a good thing
One thing to keep in mind when cleaning your interior (especially for car shows) is what style does the cleaning influence? For example a patina exterior with a glossy blindingly reflective interior doesn’t tend to go hand in hand. If you want to influence your cars exterior style into your interior keep in mind which products your using leaves what kind of shine. There are many products out there that will clean a surface from oils, fingerprints, and more but not give it that pure shine.
3. Keep That Leather Moisturized
The first and foremost important step when moisturizing leather is to make sure it’s clean first. Vacuum it and use whichever cleaner that works best for you. When leather begins to deteriorate it’ll begin to flex at first from oils and fats leaving the fibers. Try to use a leather moisturizer about every 6 months or when you bring your classic out for summer and store it for winter. Lastly when using a leather conditioner in hot weather the heat can evaporate the product so covering the areas with a plastic wrap will let the product work for longer.
Thank you for checking out a few of our quick tips from our personal experience here at Dashes Direct. If you have any recommendations for interior or dash pad care please share it with us on social media!