How to Clean Car Ceilings


Cleaning your car ceiling is as important as cleaning other parts of your car. Are you keeping your car as nice as new?
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The last time my relatives visited, I tirelessly cleaned out my car. But lo and behold, when they sat in my car, they did not comment on how clean my car was. Instead, they noticed how dirty the ceiling was. I had forgotten entirely about it. After all, it’s up high and out of sight.

Car ceilings should be regularly cleaned along with the rest of the car. Not only will it keep your vehicle looking clean and new, but it will also help to keep the air inside the car fresh.

Here are some tips on how to keep the headliner clean so that your car looks as nice as new!

Preferred Method of Cleaning

The needed materials to clean a car ceiling vary depending on the material that the ceiline is made of. 

If the ceiling is made of plastic, then a simple mixture of water and vinegar or an all-purpose cleaner may be all that is necessary.

If the ceiling is made of fabric, using a vacuum cleaner or a steamer is the ideal way to clean it.

4 Different Methods

1. Using A Vacuum Cleaner

Using a vacuum cleaner is pretty simple. Just hold the vacuum cleaner nozzle upside down to point towards the ceiling. Turn the vacuum cleaner on and slowly move it around the perimeter.

You can start with an upholstery attachment and then finish off with a thin nozzle attachment, such as the crevice tool. While you’re using the crevice tool, focus on the edges as these are areas where dirt and dust frequently build up. 

Once you have cleaned the entire ceiling, turn off the vacuum cleaner. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the headliner and remove any remaining dirt or dust.

A hand holding a small vacuum to clean stained care seats interior

2. A Bucket Of Soapy Water

You will need:

  • A bucket
  • Soap
  • A sponge or cloth

Fill the bucket with hot water and add a small amount of soap. Dip the sponge or cloth into the water and scrub the ceiling, then rinse with a clean cloth dipped in clean water. This method is especially effective at removing dirt, dust, and cobwebs.

A basin with a soapy water and blue sponge

3. Vinegar – A Natural Cleansing Method

You will need:

  • White vinegar
  • Bucket
  • Sponge or cloth

Pour white vinegar into a bucket and dip the sponge or cloth in it. Wipe the ceiling with the vinegar, then rinse with a cloth dipped in water. This method is especially effective at removing built-up dirt and grease.

Vinegar is also a highly effective method because it is a natural disinfectant. It will help kill any bacteria or mold that may have built up on your car’s ceiling.

4. Steamer – Deep Cleaning

If you are looking to deep clean your car’s headliner, you need to use a steamer or rent an extractor. A steamer will help loosen some of the dirt or grime on your headliner. An extractor is more cumbersome but can also suck up any residual water to speed up the drying process.

How to Use a Steamer

You will need:

  • Steamer
  • Bucket
  • Sponge or cloth

Start by filling the bucket with hot water and adding a few drops of dish soap. Then, place the steamer on the floor below the ceiling and turn it on. Hold the steamer against the headliner and move it around to remove all the dirt, dust, and cobwebs. Once you have cleaned the entire ceiling, rinse it with a sponge or cloth dipped in clean water and dry it with a towel.

Tips For Ongoing Maintenance

  • Wipe down your car’s ceilings with a damp cloth regularly to prevent dirt and dust from accumulating.
  • If you happen to spill something, clean it up immediately using a wet cloth.
  • Make sure to dry the ceiling thoroughly afterward to avoid any water damage.
  • If you have a pet that sheds, try to brush them regularly to minimize the amount of hair that falls onto your seats or sticks to the ceiling.
  • If you notice any dirt or dust buildup, use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to clean it up as quickly as possible.

By following these tips, you can keep your car’s ceilings looking clean and tidy for years to come!

Why Is It So Important To Keep Clean?

One of the most important reasons to keep your car clean is to protect your investment. A clean car is a healthy car, and it will last longer. Dust, dirt, and other debris can damage your car’s finish, and it can also cause corrosion.

Another reason to keep your car clean is to improve your driving experience. A clean car is more comfortable and more pleasant to drive. It’s also safer to drive in a clean car.

Also, if you’re selling your car, a clean car will be more appealing to potential buyers if you plan on selling it in the future.

In addition, a clean car is easier to sell because it will be worth more money.

Cleaning your car’s ceiling is important because it’s one of the most neglected areas. Dust and dirt can accumulate faster on the ceiling than on other parts of the car because you are not frequently brushing over it.

A warm ceiling light of a car interior

How Often Should I Clean It?

You should clean your car’s ceiling at least once a month. If your car is particularly dirty, you may need to clean it more often. Be sure to clean all of the surfaces in your car.

How Long Does It Normally Take?

It will take about 30 minutes or more to clean your car’s ceiling. The length of time will depend on how big your car is, how filthy it is, and whether you are doing a light or deep cleaning. 

Things to Avoid

First, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the surface of the ceiling.

Second, avoid getting the cleaning solution on your upholstery or carpet. It can be difficult to remove and may cause staining.

Third, avoid allowing the cleaning solution to dry on the ceiling. This will make it harder to clean in the future.

Make sure not to get the water or vinegar on the windows or windshield, as it can cause them to streak.

Overall, it is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the surface.

Cleaning your car’s ceiling is an important but often overlooked task. Make sure that while you’re at it, you are also cleaning your seat belts.

By following these tips, you can keep your car’s ceiling clean and free of dirt and dust.

Caitlyn Koch
Caitlyn Koch has been working in interior design for over 5 years. Caitlyn believes that interior design is more than just making a space look pretty - it's about creating an environment that people will enjoy living in.
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