What can you use to clean car upholstery?

For effective cleaning of car upholstery and removing stubborn stains, HG offers HG car upholstery cleaner. This product has been specially developed for safely cleaning fabric upholstery in cars, boats and caravans. It removes stains and dirt and leaves an invisible dirt-repelling finish after use. Household products such as white vinegar, washing-up liquid, lemon juice and 3% hydrogen peroxide can also be used in some cases, but they are not developed specifically for car upholstery and may carry risks. We therefore recommend always testing on an inconspicuous area first and checking the manufacturer's care instructions, whether you are using a home remedy or an HG product. Regular cleaning and the use of seat covers can help prevent stains and dirt on car seats.

HG solutions for cleaning car upholstery and removing stains

For effective cleaning of fabric car seats and upholstery, we recommend:

• Use HG car upholstery cleaner: Specially developed for cleaning fabric upholstery in your car, boat or caravan. Spray the surface to be cleaned with HG car upholstery cleaner. Absorb the dirt with a clean, absorbent cloth — ideally a terry cloth — then rub the surface dry. For heavier stains or soiling, work the surface with a soft brush. Leave HG car upholstery cleaner to work for a few minutes, then rub the surface dry. After use, the product leaves an invisible dirt-repelling finish, helping to protect the upholstery against future soiling.

Alternative ways to clean car upholstery

There are several household products that can be used to clean car upholstery and remove stains. Although these are not specially developed for this purpose like HG car upholstery cleaner, they may help in some situations. Always check the manufacturer's care instructions first.

• White vinegar: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar, apply to the stain and leave briefly. Then blot with a clean cloth.
• Washing-up liquid: Mix a small amount with water, apply the lather to the stain and rub gently. Wipe off with a damp cloth.
• Lemon juice: Apply a small amount to the stain, leave briefly, then blot with a damp cloth.
• 3% hydrogen peroxide: Apply a small amount to the stain, leave for a few minutes, then blot with a damp cloth.

These methods may not remove all stains completely and can sometimes damage the fabric. Always test first before treating the full stain. Bear in mind that these methods may not remove all stains completely and can sometimes carry risks. We therefore recommend always testing on an inconspicuous area first before applying your chosen solution to the full stain.

Causes of stains and dirt on car seats

Car seats can become dirty or stained for several reasons:

• Food, drinks or other liquids being spilled while driving or eating in the car.
• Sweat stains, especially during warm weather.
• Dirt and mud from shoes or clothing transferring onto the seats.
• Pets leaving hair, dirt and odours behind.

To help prevent stains and dirt:

• Use seat covers that are easy to remove and clean.
• Avoid eating and drinking in the car where possible.
• Clean upholstery regularly with a suitable product such as our HG car upholstery cleaner, before dirt and stains set in.