Pressure washing a car’s interior can be a risky and potentially damaging process, but with the right techniques and precautions, it can be done safely and effectively. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary information to pressure wash your car’s interior without causing any harm.
Safety Concerns
Water Damage
Pressure washing can lead to water seeping into electrical components, causing damage or short circuits. This is particularly concerning for older cars with more exposed wiring. The average car has around 30-50 electrical components in the interior, including control modules, sensors, and wiring harnesses, which can be vulnerable to water intrusion. Exposing these components to high-pressure water can lead to malfunctions, corrosion, and even complete failure, costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair.
Fabric and Material Damage
High-pressure water streams can damage or disintegrate fabric, carpets, and other interior materials. The force of the water can cause the fibers to break down, leading to premature wear and tear. Additionally, the water can seep into the padding and foam underneath, causing them to become waterlogged and lose their structural integrity. This can result in a musty odor, mold growth, and a generally unpleasant interior environment.
Sound Deadening Material
The sound deadening material under automotive carpets can hold water, leading to mold and rust issues if not properly dried. This material is designed to absorb sound and vibration, but it can also act as a sponge, trapping moisture and creating an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. Failure to thoroughly dry this material can lead to long-term damage and costly repairs.
Precautions and Techniques
Use the Right Equipment
When pressure washing a car’s interior, it’s crucial to use the right equipment. Electric pressure washers with a pressure range of 1200-1900 psi are recommended, as they provide enough power to clean effectively without being too aggressive. Gas-powered pressure washers, on the other hand, can generate pressures of up to 3000 psi, which can be too powerful and potentially cause damage.
Choose the Right Nozzle
The type of nozzle used can also make a significant difference in the outcome of the pressure washing process. A 25-degree nozzle is recommended for cleaning wheels and caked-on mud, as it provides a more focused and powerful stream of water. For all other interior surfaces, a 40-degree nozzle is preferred, as it produces a wider, more dispersed spray pattern that is less likely to cause damage.
Maintain Distance
When pressure washing the interior of a car, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance from the surfaces being cleaned. The nozzle should be held at least 6 inches away from painted surfaces and 12 inches away from plastic trim to avoid causing any damage. Holding the nozzle too close can result in the water stream being too concentrated, leading to potential issues.
Use Soap and Detergent
Applying a suitable soap or detergent can greatly enhance the cleaning effectiveness of the pressure washing process. The soap can help break down and lift dirt and grime, making it easier to rinse away. When using a soap tank or applying soap by hand, it’s important to follow the recommended water-to-soap ratio to ensure the solution is not too concentrated, which could potentially damage the interior materials.
Rinse Thoroughly
After applying the soap or detergent, it’s crucial to rinse the car’s interior thoroughly to remove all traces of the cleaning solution. Leaving behind any residual soap can lead to streaking, discoloration, and even damage to the materials over time. Multiple rinse cycles may be necessary to ensure complete removal of the soap.
Alternative Methods
Handwashing
For more delicate or sensitive interior surfaces, such as leather or delicate fabrics, handwashing with a gentle detergent and soft brushes may be a safer and more effective option. This method allows for more control and precision, reducing the risk of damage to the materials.
Specialized Cleaning Products
Using specialized cleaning products and techniques, such as those designed for upholstery and carpets, can be more effective and safer than pressure washing. These products are formulated to gently lift and remove dirt and stains without causing harm to the interior materials.
Technical Specifications
Pressure Washer Type
As mentioned earlier, electric pressure washers with a pressure range of 1200-1900 psi are recommended for car cleaning. These washers provide enough power to effectively clean the interior without being too aggressive. The average electric pressure washer weighs around 20-30 lbs and has a flow rate of 1.2-1.8 gallons per minute (GPM).
Nozzle Angle
When pressure washing a car’s interior, it’s important to use the appropriate nozzle angle. A 25-degree nozzle is recommended for cleaning wheels and caked-on mud, as it provides a more focused and powerful stream of water. For all other interior surfaces, a 40-degree nozzle is preferred, as it produces a wider, more dispersed spray pattern that is less likely to cause damage.
Distance from Surface
Maintaining the proper distance from the surfaces being cleaned is crucial to avoid damage. The nozzle should be held at least 6 inches away from painted surfaces and 12 inches away from plastic trim. This distance helps to ensure that the water stream is not too concentrated, reducing the risk of material degradation or water intrusion.
References
- Turtle Wax. (n.d.). Can a pressure washer be used safely for car cleaning? Retrieved from https://www.turtlewax.com/blogs/how-to/can-a-pressure-washer-be-used-safely-for-car-cleaning
- Garage 54. (2019, September 26). Pressure washing the interior – will the car start? Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1J6HknDFNw4
- Family Handyman. (2021, August 24). How to Pressure Wash Your Car Without Damaging It. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I29-3FK1EQE
- Grassroots Motorsports. (2011, February 28). Cleaning cloth interior. Retrieved from https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/grm/cleaning-cloth-interior/32394/page1/
- Reddit. (2021, May 26). Neighbor was power washing the inside of his car… was towed. Retrieved from https://www.reddit.com/r/AutoDetailing/comments/nleafo/neighbor_was_power_washing_the_inside_of_his_car/