Top 4 Chemicals That RUIN Your Car’s Interior:

Most car owners want their interior looking clean and shiny—but some of the most common products on store shelves are actually damaging your car. Over time, the wrong chemicals can dry out, fade, or even melt the materials inside your vehicle.

Here are the Top 5 Worst Interior Chemicals to avoid — and what to use instead:

1. Armor All Original Protectant

Why it's bad:
Armor All is known for giving a shiny finish, but it does so with harsh silicone-based ingredients that can dry out plastic, cause cracking, and leave a greasy residue that attracts dust.

What to use instead:
Use 303 Aerospace Protectant — it gives a clean, matte look while offering UV protection without damaging surfaces.

2. Dish Soap or All-Purpose Household Cleaners

Why it's bad:
These cleaners strip away natural oils from leather and vinyl and can leave behind residues that make your surfaces sticky or dry.

What to use instead:
Use dedicated leather and upholstery cleaners like Meguiar’s Gold Class Leather Cleaner or P&S Xpress Interior Cleaner — both are safe, effective, and designed for car interiors.

3. Bleach-Based Cleaners

Why it's bad:
Bleach will discolor upholstery, melt plastics, and damage stitching. Even small amounts can permanently ruin trim pieces.

What to use instead:
Use an enzyme-based interior cleaner or foaming upholstery cleaner made specifically for automotive materials.

4. Alcohol Wipes or High-Alcohol Sanitizers

Why it's bad:
While good for killing germs, high-alcohol content dries and cracks leather and soft-touch plastics — especially when used frequently.

What to use instead:
For sanitizing without damage, use a gentle interior detailer spray that’s both safe and antimicrobial, like CarPro Interior Cleaner.