How to Refresh Your Ride for the New Year
We’ve all opened the door to our car after the holidays and thought, “How did this happen?” Coffee cups in the door pocket, a half-melted candy cane stuck to the console, and salt stains that make the floor look like it snowed inside. Starting the year with a clean car feels like wiping the slate — or dashboard — clean. And believe it or not, cleaning your car does more than lift your spirits. It helps protect your investment, makes driving safer, and can even extend the life of your vehicle. As the crew who provides Monmouth roadside assistance day in and day out, we know how much a clean, well-kept car can change your whole driving experience. So, if you’ve made a resolution to get more organized or just want your car to stop looking like a storage unit on wheels, we’ve got you. Grab a vacuum, roll up your sleeves, and let’s kick off the year with a solid interior and exterior refresh.
Our Favorite Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Start
We’ve tried just about everything to keep our trucks and support vehicles in shape, and what we’ve learned applies to every car, big or small. Keeping things clean doesn’t have to take all day, it just takes a little intention and a few tools.
Start by tackling the inside. Clear everything out, from the trunk to the glovebox. You’ll be amazed what’s been hiding. Salt and grime from winter roads can damage your interior, so get those floor mats out and give them a real wash, not just a quick shake. Vacuum under the seats and use a stiff brush on carpets before you vacuum again. Trust us, it makes a difference.
Wipe down surfaces with a microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner, but skip the greasy dashboard sprays, they attract dust and make everything slippery. A small brush (even an old toothbrush) works great for vents and buttons.
Now, about the outside:
- Start with a rinse: Loosen up grit before you scrub so you don’t scratch the paint.
- Use the two-bucket method: One for soapy water, one for rinsing your mitt.
- Don’t forget the undercarriage: Especially around here, where road salt can eat away at metal.
- Dry with a microfiber towel: Keeps the streaks and water spots away.
- Wax isn’t just for looks: It adds a layer of protection against the elements.
Once everything’s clean, toss a few garbage bags and a microfiber cloth in your door pocket. Keeping your car tidy gets a lot easier when you’re not starting from a mess every week.
Keeping Things Clean Between Deep Scrubs
We’ve learned that the secret to a clean car isn’t doing one big cleaning a year. It’s setting up small habits that keep messes from taking over.
Here’s what our Monmouth roadside assistance experts recommend:
- Empty the car every time we get home: water bottles, food wrappers, everything.
- Keep a small bin or bag for trash in the car.
- Wipe down high-touch areas weekly.
- Get a quick wash if it’s been snowing or raining, it helps keep grime from building up.
- Avoid eating full meals in the car (we break this one, too, but it’s worth trying).
Baker & Baker Towing Offers More Than Monmouth Roadside Assistance
At Baker & Baker Towing, we know a thing or two about vehicles. After all, we’ve been helping folks out with Monmouth roadside assistance for years. But clean cars? That’s part of our world, too. A clean vehicle is easier to inspect, safer to drive, and just feels better to be in, whether it’s your daily commuter or your backup ride.
When we respond to a call for Monmouth roadside assistance, we see all kinds of situations. And while our Monmouth roadside assistance team is always here to jump a battery, change a tire, or tow you to safety, we also see how much easier things go when drivers keep their cars in decent shape.
So if you’re planning a New Year reset, let your car be part of it. Take an hour this week to clean it up, inside and out. Then stash some essentials, like a charger, flashlight, and a basic roadside kit, so you’re ready for whatever the road brings. And if the road brings trouble, you know who to call for Monmouth roadside assistance.
We’ll be out there, clean trucks and all, helping Monmouth drivers start the year right. And stay moving.
FAQ
How often should I deep clean the inside of my car?
We recommend a full interior clean every three to four months. Regular light cleanups in between help maintain it without feeling like a big project.
What’s the best way to get rid of road salt in my car?
Use a mix of warm water and white vinegar to break down salt on carpets and floor mats. Scrub with a stiff brush before vacuuming to lift the residue.
Can I use household cleaners on my car’s interior?
Some all-purpose cleaners are safe, but always test on a small area first. Avoid anything with ammonia on touchscreens or glossy surfaces.
How do I clean tight spots like vents and cup holders?
Use a soft detailing brush or an old toothbrush to loosen debris. For cup holders, a damp sponge wrapped around a bottle works well.
Why does my car smell even after I clean it?
Lingering odors often come from the air vents or hidden spills. Clean the vents, check under seats, and consider replacing the cabin air filter.
Is waxing really necessary after washing my car?
Yes. Wax adds a protective layer that helps your car’s paint last longer and makes future washes easier. Aim to wax every few months.
