Protect the Interior of a Convertible
Convertible cars are versatile because they can be a closed or open-air vehicle. This style of vehicle is also referred to as a "drop top" because it has a removable vinyl or cloth top that protects the interior. A convertible is more susceptible to UV light, dirt and other damage. However, because of its versatility, maintaining the interior of a convertible may take more care and cost than the average car. Cleaning and covering the interior of your convertible is essential for successful car maintenance and durability. Buy products that have been proven to work on your type of leather, cloth or vinyl interior, instead of using general car cleaning products. Learn how to protect the interior of a convertible.
Contents
Steps
Cleaning your Convertible
- Remove all garbage from your car. This and most of these cleaning items should be completed every week to avoid odors, caked on dirt and a dusty interior.
- Dampen a microfiber towel slightly. Wipe down all surfaces to remove dust and dirt. This can be done on vinyl, plastic and leather surfaces.
- Wipe down the inside of your doors with the microfiber towel.
- Shake out the floor mats to remove dirt before it reaches the carpet at the bottom of your convertible. Vacuum your floors every month to protect against dirt. After it remains for a period of time, it can become ingrained in the carpet and upholstery and nearly impossible to remove.
- Buy a UV light protector that is specific to your type of interior. Convertible interiors are vinyl, plastic and leather. Consult your owner's manual if you do not know which type you have.
- Sunlight can cause fading, cracking, peeling and brittleness in your interior, so it is important to have a regular cleaning and protecting routine. Do not apply protector products without cleaning the surface first.
- Apply the UV light inhibitor/protector to the dash, door panels and console every month. Use a foam applicator to brush on the inhibitor according to package directions.
- You can find UV light inhibitor at car parts stores, car detailing stores and online.
- Clean and/or vacuum your upholstery regularly. Apply a UV light protector to your vinyl or leather upholstery every 3 months.
- Buy a sunshade to put behind your windshield when you are parked in sunlight. Use it faithfully and your convertible interior will maintain its beauty for even longer.
Caring for Convertible Tops
- Use a convertible top whenever your car is parked or not in use. The top will minimize the damage caused by weather, UV light and dirt.]
- Care for your convertible top regularly. The top is not only an integral part of the look of your car, it can also crack if not cared for properly. A protected top will mean a better car interior.
- Buy a gentle car shampoo that is formulated for vinyl or cloth convertible tops, depending upon the material of your top. Do not buy a car cleaner that maximizes shine, since these formulas are made for the body of the car, not a matte vinyl or cloth top.
- Spray your top with water and then spray it with your cleaner. Use an applicator with a soft brush to wash the top according to the product's instructions. This will help to remove dirt and debris.
- Dry the surface of the top. Then, spray on vinyl or cloth convertible top protector. These products are available in detailing stores or online.
- Clean and protect your convertible top every month to keep it looking in good condition and protecting the rest of the interior.
- Buy a special plastic cleaner for your clear vinyl windows. Apply this specialty product every month to prevent yellowing and cracking.
Things You'll Need
- Microfiber towels
- Water
- Vacuum
- UV light inhibitor
- Foam applicator
- Sun shade
- Convertible top protector
- Soft-bristled brush
- Spray hose
- Plastic cleaner
- Vinyl/Cloth convertible top cleaner
