Let’s face it—no matter how clean you keep your car, the upholstery tells the truth. Between daily wear, drive-thru coffee spills, muddy shoes, and summer sweat, your car seats and headliner absorb a lot more than we’d like to admit. Whether you’re maintaining a well-loved daily driver, keeping your RV guest-ready, or refreshing an older restoration project, this guide walks you through what actually works when it comes to cleaning car interiors—including performance fabrics like Sunbrella® and automotive-grade vinyl.
How to Clean Fabric Car Seats Without Wrecking Them
Fabric seats feel great but tend to hang onto dust, spills, and body oils over time. And if you’ve ever scrubbed too hard and ended up with pilled upholstery or soaked foam—you’re not alone.
Here’s what works:
- Vacuum first – Dirt and debris act like sandpaper. Remove it before adding moisture.
- Use a fabric-safe cleaner – Lightly spray, then gently agitate with a microfiber cloth or soft-bristle brush.
- Blot, don’t scrub – Let the cleaner lift the stain. Too much elbowgrease can fray fibers.
- Air dry thoroughly – Leave the windows cracked or use a small fan. Avoid trapping moisture in foam.
Pro tip: For stubborn spots, use a spot treatment designed for auto upholstery fabric—not a generic carpet cleaner.
Headliner Cleaning: Gentle Is the Only Way
If your car’s ceiling (aka the headliner) looks a little tired, a light touch goes a long way. Too much moisture can break down the adhesive and cause sagging—something no one wants to fix twice.
How to clean a headliner the right way:
- Use a microfiber cloth dampened with a small amount of upholstery cleaner.
- Dab gently—don’t saturate.
- Work in small sections and allow each area to dry before continuing.
Using Sunbrite™ headliner fabric? The same gentle cleaning method applies. It’s designed for easy maintenance but still benefits from a delicate approach.
Want to learn how to replace a sagging headliner? Check out our Headliner Fabric Made Simple blog.
Cleaning Sunbrella® in Vehicles, RVs, or Boats
Sunbrella® isn’t just for patio furniture—it's a go-to for performance seating in cars, RVs, and marine interiors. Its resistance to UV rays and mildew makes it incredibly practical, but even Sunbrella needs the occasional refresh.
Here’s how to clean it properly:
- Light clean: Brush off dry dirt and rinse with clean water.
- Deep clean: Mix mild dish soap with water, scrub gently with a soft brush, then rinse thoroughly.
- Machine wash: Some removable Sunbrella covers can be washed on a gentle cycle—just don’t toss them in the dryer.
Grab our Sunbrella Cleaning & Care PDF for full instructions and stain-specific treatments and shop our collection of Sunbrella cleaners.
How to Clean Automotive Vinyl & Faux Leather (Like Ship 2 Shore® & Enduratex®)
Vinyl is durable—but it still needs maintenance, especially in vehicles exposed to sun or temperature swings. Cracking, discoloration, and stains can sneak up if you’re not careful.
Routine cleaning:
- Use a mix of 90% warm water and 10% mild soap.
- Apply with a soft, damp cloth. Wipe gently, then rinse and dry with a clean towel.
For stains or grime buildup:
- Using a 50/50 mix of water and a vinyl-safe cleaner works great or look for pre-mixed cleaner options.
- Rinse with water and dry completely.
For tougher stains (like ink or sunscreen):
- Mix 10% bleach with 90% water. Use a soft cloth and rinse thoroughly to remove all bleach residue. Test a hidden spot first.
Important: Avoid harsh chemicals—acetates, alcohol, ketones, or anything petroleum-based can ruin faux leather finishes. Skip steel wool and scouring pads, too.
See our Automotive Cleaning & Supply Collection for recommended cleaners, protectants, and conditioners made for Ship 2 Shore®, Enduratex®, and more.
Pro Cleaning Tips That Actually Make a Difference
- Always test products first on a hidden spot to avoid surprises.
- Use protectants after cleaning—fabric guard sprays and vinyl conditioners can help prevent stains and fading.
- Clean regularly—it’s easier to maintain than to restore. Schedule a monthly wipe-down and seasonal deep clean.
Good Cleaning Today Means Less Repair Tomorrow
A little care goes a long way when it comes to keeping your interior looking sharp. Whether you’re dealing with cloth seats, faux leather, or Sunbrella in a weekend cruiser or road-tripping RV, the right cleaning habits protect your investment—and your comfort.
Need more help?
Check out these expert resources:
- DIY Automotive Upholstery: What No One Tells You
- How to Choose Automotive Upholstery Fabric
- Sunbrella Cleaning & Care PDF
Ready to refresh your interior—or start over entirely? Browse our collection of cleaners, protectants, and automotive upholstery materials built for real-world use.
