What do you use to CLEAN interior vinyl before adding protectant?

2

2007TBSS

New member
I did my first full on interior detail on my thrashed work truck today and just used some APC on a microfiber to clean the vinyl before treating it. Worked well, but I would hate to do damage to something I actually cared about.



That normal? Is there something better?



Also, is there an interior protectant that's similar yet cheaper than 303? That stuff can run low quick after a few cleanings and replacement cost is high.
 
2007TBSS said:
I did my first full on interior detail on my thrashed work truck today and just used some APC on a microfiber to clean the vinyl before treating it. Worked well, but I would hate to do damage to something I actually cared about.



That normal? Is there something better?



Also, is there an interior protectant that's similar yet cheaper than 303? That stuff can run low quick after a few cleanings and replacement cost is high.
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I learned the trick is to spray 303 on an applicator pad, its lasts MUCH longer that way. also, buying by the gallon directly from the source (their website) saves a lot from buying it locally ($15-20/16oz....yikes)
 
I use poor boys natural protectant, it cleans and protects. Used it on a beater that needed some love and it got A LOT of the dirt out of the vinyl. Also leaves it with a clean matte finish.
 
I clean with Woolite HE 20:1, scrubbing with various brushes to get the embedded dirt out. Then I will "rinse" thoroughly with a very damp MF, and follow up with a dry MF. This ensures that there is no Woolite residue left on the surface.
 
I've used everything from Woolite mixes to APCs, but the steamer sure comes in handy and that's sorta my go-to for tough jobs. For lighter messes I really like Griot's Interior Cleaner, and the no-rinse Sonus vinyl/leather cleaner is nice on most (but not all) such surfaces.
 
IkeRay said:
I learned the trick is to spray 303 on an applicator pad, its lasts MUCH longer that way. also, buying by the gallon directly from the source (their website) saves a lot from buying it locally ($15-20/16oz....yikes)
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I actually figured out both of those things today. O'Reilly's has microfiber applicator 6 packs for $2.50, so I scooped some up and gave it a shot. Worked great. And I kinda pai attention to the usage and it actually didnt seem like I was using as much as I though I was.



I priced the gallons on Amazon at $49 and sometimes you can get free shipping.



That will probably be what I do next time! The APC is safe for use on all vinyls, right?
 
I use CAR products "BLAST" APC mixed between 10:1 and 20:1 depemding on how filthy the item I am cleaning is.
 
I use a very high quality degreaser dilluted 10:1. It is called Detsol HD, it is a product that has actually been out for a while. It works amazing, but it is pushing $80.00 for a 5 gallon bucket....
 
Accumulator said:
...the steamer sure comes in handy and that's sorta my go-to for tough jobs...
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Apollo_Auto said:
... steamer's awesome for those hard-to-clean spots...
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+1, I just feel like I am not getting an interior 100% without using it.



My steamer broke a few weeks ago, and I have done a few interior details without it, and I have to say I seriously miss using it. Just makes the cracks/crevices *so* much easier to do, plus it just seems to melt away the goo in cup holders/on the steering wheel.
 
Bigpoppa3346 said:
+1, I just feel like I am not getting an interior 100% without using it.



My steamer broke a few weeks ago, and I have done a few interior details without it, and I have to say I seriously miss using it. Just makes the cracks/crevices *so* much easier to do, plus it just seems to melt away the goo in cup holders/on the steering wheel.
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Not to steal the tread but what type of steamer did you have, how long did it take for it to break down?





As for me I use Megs APC+ 10:1 and I like to spray it on directly and then use a soft brush (i have a fingernail brush that is actually really good) to rub the area gently...then wipe it up with a very damp MF...and then let it air dry or go over it with a dry MF.



I also usually keep a bucket of soapy water with me while i do it, so i can rinse out my brush & damp cloth as I go along, you'd be surprised how NASTY that water looks when your done!



As for dressing....i love Megs Hyperdressing. I buy it in the 1 Gallon...not cheap..about $30...but its dilutable:). Water based and you can use it on tires/engines/trim as well. I usually use 1:1 or 2:1 on tires and 2:1 or 3:1 on interior (just depends on how shiney you want it to be). Has a pretty nice smell to it as well. I bought a gallon quite a few months ago and its still lasting me.



Hope this helps out!
 
I use Megs APC+ 10:1 sprayed directly to the surface, then wipe with a damp MF soaked in warm water. Let dry, then follow up with my interior dressing/protectant of choice.
 
I have 2 favorites - Woolite 10:1 and Majestic Solutions Tidal Wave - 10:1, then a rinse with a warm, damp terry cloth towel, let dry completely and go over with Optimum Protectant.
 
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