Your car’s dashboard is one of the most visible and frequently touched surfaces in your vehicle. Whether you drive a compact car, a family SUV, or a luxury ride, a clean dashboard gives your car a fresh, well-maintained look. However, dashboards accumulate dust, oils, stains, and even bacteria over time—especially in Kenya’s dusty or humid environments.

So, what is the best way to clean a car dashboard without damaging it? This guide provides an easy-to-follow method using both household and professional car care products, plus pro tips for maintenance.

Why Cleaning Your Dashboard Regularly Matters

• Improves vehicle aesthetics – A clean dashboard looks more appealing.

• Extends dashboard lifespan – Prevents cracking, fading, and peeling.

• Reduces allergens and bacteria – Especially important if you drive daily or have kids.

• Retains car resale value – A clean interior leaves a good impression.

Supplies You’ll Need

You can choose between professional products or safe household alternatives.

Professional Supplies:

• Interior dashboard cleaner or all-purpose car interior cleaner

• Microfiber towels or applicator pads

• Dashboard protectant or UV protectant spray (optional)

• Soft-bristled detailing brush

Household Alternative:

• Mild dish soap or white vinegar

• Water

• Cotton swabs for tight corners

• Vacuum with brush attachment

Step-by-Step: Best Way to Clean a Dashboard

1. Vacuum the Dashboard

Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. Pay attention to:

• Air vents

• Instrument panel edges

• Speaker grills

• Crevices around the gear console and cup holders

Tip: Use a soft detailing brush to loosen dust in hard-to-reach spots.

2. Wipe Down with a Damp Microfiber Cloth

Start by dampening a clean microfiber cloth with water or a diluted cleaning solution (mix 1 part mild dish soap to 3 parts water).

• Gently wipe the entire dashboard surface, working in sections.

• Avoid oversaturating the cloth to prevent water damage to electronics.

3. Use a Dashboard Cleaner or All-Purpose Interior Spray

Apply your chosen product (like Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer or Turtle Wax Interior Cleaner) onto a microfiber cloth—not directly onto the dashboard—to avoid overspray.

• Rub in gentle, circular motions.

• Use cotton swabs or a soft brush to detail tight areas like button edges and AC vents.

4. Dry and Buff

After cleaning, use a dry microfiber cloth to buff the dashboard. This removes streaks and brings out a natural matte or satin finish.

5. Apply Protectant (Optional But Recommended)

If your dashboard is made from vinyl, plastic, rubber, or leather, consider applying a UV protectant or conditioner. This:

• Prevents fading and cracking from sun exposure

• Adds a subtle sheen or matte finish (based on product choice)

Popular protectants include:

• 303 Aerospace Protectant (for matte finish)

• Armor All Original Protectant (for shine)

• Sonax Dashboard Cleaner (anti-static and UV protection)

Special Care for Leather Dashboards

If your car has a leather dashboard:

• Use a leather-safe cleaner and conditioner (e.g., Chemical Guys or Lexol).

• Never use harsh soaps or alcohol-based sprays.

• Always condition after cleaning to keep leather supple.

What Not to Do

• ❌ Don’t use glass cleaner (can dry and crack surfaces).

• ❌ Avoid ammonia-based products—they damage plastics and vinyl.

• ❌ Don’t scrub with abrasive sponges.

• ❌ Never soak the dashboard with water.

Bonus: Homemade Dashboard Cleaner Recipe

If you’re cleaning on a budget or want a natural option:

• 1 cup warm water

• 1 tablespoon mild dish soap

• ½ cup white vinegar
  Mix in a spray bottle. Spray onto a cloth and wipe the dashboard. Follow with a dry towel.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dashboard?

• Light cleaning: Once a week or every time you wash your car.

• Deep cleaning: Once a month with protectant application.

Where to Buy Dashboard Cleaners in Kenya

If you’re looking for professional dashboard cleaning products, check:

• Kejani Cleaning Supplies

• Auto accessory shops in Nairobi CBD, Westlands, Mombasa Road.

• Supermarkets

Final Thoughts

The dashboard is the centerpiece of your car’s interior, and keeping it clean doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and products, you can maintain a spotless, UV-protected dashboard that looks great and stays durable for years.

Want the best dashboard cleaner sprays, microfiber towels, or detailing brushes delivered to your door in Kenya?
Visit Kejani Cleaning Supplies today for premium car care essentials.