How To Clean Cupholders In A Car
Summary: Cleaning car cupholders is a straightforward process that takes less than 10 minutes to complete. All you need is the right cleaning chemicals, a clean rag, some elbow grease, and the right instructions. Let’s dive in.
Unless you make a regular habit of cleaning your car’s cupholders, they will get dirty. Whether it be crumbs from snacking or sticky residue from drinks, there will be buildup that needs attention. The cleaning process is simple, yet makes a noticeable difference in your vehicle’s appearance.
For a visual overview of a fantastic cupholder cleaning technique, check out the following video.
Cupholder Cleaning Steps & Products
Cupholders are widely universal, most times being made out of hard, durable plastic. The following steps will address such cupholders, along with suede cupholders, and leather cupholders.
What you need:
- Begin by vacuuming any loose dust and crumbs out of the cupholders. Make sure to not rub the tip of the vacuum harshly against the plastic or cupholder material, as it will scratch it.
- After the particles are removed, it’s time to de-grime. Using the all-purpose cleaner above or one you have on hand, spray the bottom and side walls of the cupholder.
- Allow the chemical to sit for 5 minutes if the build-up is severe, or wipe immediately if the cupholders are relatively clean.
- Once the all-purpose cleaner has been applied, use a rag to scrub the base and walls of the cupholder in a circular motion. This will agitate the grime.
- Using another rag, wipe the final debris out of the cupholder.
For Severe Cupholder Buildup
- Soak a rag in hot water, and place it in the base of the cup holder for 10 minutes.
- Once the rag has sat, remove the loose debris as much as possible. If you have a wet vac, suc the liquid out of the cupholder for the best results.
- Apply steps 2-4 from the section above to finish off the extremely dirty cupholders.
How To Keep Cupholders Clean Over Time
Most dirty cupholders are a result of food particles building up over time. With the right set of cupholder liners, this issue becomes obsolete and easy to take care of in just minutes.
The following liners slip into cupholders easily, contain all debris, and are easy to remove for quick cleaning.