Spring Cleaning? Our Top Ten Pro Tips for Detailing Your Car!

Make your ride sparkle, or let Quick Lane do the work for you!

Spring is finally here, and just like your home, your vehicle deserves a fresh start after months of winter wear and tear. Spring is finally here, and just like your home, your

vehicle. Now's the perfect time to give it the deep-clean it deserves! Here are some tips directly from our Pros in the Quick Lane detailing department. For our DIY cleaners - don't forget, we sell all the best detailing supplies from chemicals and waxes to leather protectant and soft mitts and cloths. You can find them in our Parts Department! 

Exterior Detailing Tips

1. Start with a rinse

Hose off the heavy debris before scrubbing. Rinse off from the top to the bottom, paying close attention to the undercarriage where road salt collects. A high-pressure nozzle or car wash bay hose works great for this!

2. Use car-safe soap 

Skip the dish soap and use a cleaner designed for automotive paint to avoid stripping protective wax. Choose a pH-balanced car wash soap that's designed specifically for automotive paint. Use a microfiber mitt or soft sponge to avoid scratching. Wash in sections and rinse thoroughly to avoid soap drying in the sun.

3. Clean the wheels & tires with different supplies than the body of your car 

Wheels often accumulate brake dust, which is corrosive if left too long. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and a separate brush or cloth from the one used on the body. Scrub the tires too, clean rubber looks fresher and can even help tire shine products stick better. Rinse well and dry with a different microfiber towel to prevent scratching your paint.

4. Don't forget the windows

Crystal-clear windows improve visibility and complete that spotless look. Spray onto a microfiber cloth rather than directly on the glass to reduce streaking. Be sure to clean both the outside and inside of every window, including side mirrors.

5. Wax on, shine on

Waxing your vehicle not only gives it a beautiful glossy finish but also acts as a protective layer against UV rays, bird droppings, and dirt. Apply a quality wax in small sections using a soft applicator, and buff it off with a clean microfiber cloth. A good wax job can last several months and make future cleaning easier. It's the final touch that truly makes your car pop.

Interior Detailing Tips

6. Clear out the clutter

Start by removing everything that doesn't belong, old receipts, water bottles, forgotten mitts, and other winter leftovers. Clean out the glove box, center console, door pockets, and trunk. Once everything's emptied, wipe down all surfaces with an interior-safe cleaner. This clears the way for a deeper clean and makes your vehicle feel instantly more organized.

7. Vacuum everything

A thorough vacuuming is key to removing dirt, crumbs, and pet hair that's built up over the months. Move the seats forward and back to access hidden debris, and don't forget the trunk. Use a crevice tool to get into tight areas, like between seats and around the pedals. For vents and hard-to-reach spots, try using a soft brush or a can of compressed air.

8. Deep clean upholstery

If you have cloth seats, treat any stains with an upholstery cleaner and gently scrub with a soft brush. For leather, use a leather-safe cleaner followed by conditioner to keep it soft and prevent cracking. Don't forget your seatbelts, they get touched daily but are often overlooked. Make sure everything dries completely before driving.

9. Clean & disinfect touchpoints

Your steering wheel, gear shift, infotainment controls, and door handles collect a lot of grime and germs. Use a gentle cleaner or disinfecting wipe (safe for screens and plastics) to thoroughly clean these areas. Take your time and be detailed, these are the spots you interact with every day. It not only improves appearance, but it's better for your health too.

10. Finish with an air freshener

After all that hard work, a clean scent helps seal the deal. Whether you prefer a traditional hanging freshener, a vent clip, or a natural essential oil diffuser, choose a fragrance that feels fresh and not overpowering. Scents like citrus and lavender are perfect for spring. It's a small touch that makes a big difference.

Short on Time? Let Lacombe Quick Lane Handle it! 

While DIY detailing can be rewarding, we get it, spring is busy! Why not let the pros at Lacombe Quick Lane do the dirty work? Our professional Vehicle Detailing Packages start at just $49.95 and include services that will leave your vehicle sparkling, inside and out. Whether it's a quick clean or full refresh, we've got a package that fits your needs and budget. Book your detail today and get your vehicle feeling like new again!

Lacombe Ford | Quick Lane Detailing Services
Clean car, clear mind. Get your vehicle ready for road trips, commutes, and all that spring has to offer with a little help from your team at Lacombe Ford and Quick Lane Lacombe.