A car has many components, one of which is the door trim, also known as the door panel. This part serves multiple functions, primarily enhancing the interior’s appearance to make it look neat and stylish. To achieve this, door trim is usually covered with various materials that can be quite tricky to clean.
Another function of the door trim is to house various driver control buttons, which is why it requires extra care when cleaning. Unlike exterior parts that can be freely washed with water and soap, this area needs gentle handling to avoid short-circuiting the electrical buttons.
To help you and others clean your car’s door trim regularly, we’ve put together some useful tips. If you need this information, feel free to read through until the end.
Remove Dust and Dirt
The first step is to remove dust and dirt stuck on the door trim. Basically, cleaning car door trim is quite simple — you only need a microfiber cloth and an interior cleaner. However, the materials used are delicate, so never spray the cleaner directly onto the surface.
Never spray interior cleaner directly onto the door trim. Instead, spray it onto the microfiber cloth first, then gently wipe the trim. Don’t clean the entire surface at once — start with a hidden area as a precaution in case the cleaner reacts poorly with the material.
For a more practical method, use a vacuum cleaner instead of a cloth. It easily removes dust and light stains. While vacuuming, you can also inspect the condition of the trim for any damage.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners and Tools
As mentioned earlier, door trim materials are quite sensitive. It’s not recommended to use harsh chemicals like solvents or bleach, as they can damage the surface and cause the original color to fade.
In addition to liquids, cleaning tools also need careful selection. Avoid abrasive tools that can scratch the surface. Rough materials like sandpaper can create tiny holes that trap dirt over time.
Stick to microfiber cloths and the cleaners mentioned earlier. Always spray the cleaner onto the cloth first, not directly on the panel — you never know if it’s compatible. Start in a hidden spot to avoid visible damage or discoloration.
Another reason to avoid direct spraying is the risk of liquid seeping into the gaps around buttons like central lock, power windows, or retractable mirrors. Moisture in these areas can cause electrical short circuits.
Interior cleaners are widely available online or at auto accessory stores, priced between Rp40,000 and Rp150,000. Choose carefully and make sure the product is safe for your door trim material.
Pay Attention to the Door Trim Material
We’ve emphasized that you must consider the material covering your door trim because each type requires different care. Here’s how to clean door trim based on its material:
Vinyl
If your door trim is made of vinyl or plastic, use a dedicated vinyl cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth. Plastic is easily scratched by rough brushes, and incompatible cleaners can cause fading.
For dirt trapped in crevices, use a soft nylon-bristled brush. This type is gentle and won’t damage the surface. Pair it with vinyl cleaner for best results.
Fabric
Some manufacturers still use fabric to cover door trim. Fabric absorbs water and oil easily, making it prone to stains and dust buildup.
Clean fabric door trim with interior cleaner and a soft nylon brush. Always test the cleaner on a hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor the fabric.
For stubborn stains, repeat the cleaning process several times until the mark fades. Avoid harsh chemicals and metal brushes that can damage fabric fibers.
Leather
Leather is one of the easiest door trim materials to maintain — just clean it twice a year. Use leather-specific cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Apply a small amount to the cloth and wipe in circular motions.
For stubborn stains, repeat the process. After cleaning, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean cotton cloth. Apply leather conditioner afterward to restore its new look and extend its lifespan.
Be Extra Careful When Cleaning the Driver’s Door Trim
The driver’s door trim has many control buttons attached. Extra caution is needed to prevent electrical damage or short circuits.
Use a vacuum cleaner or a soft-bristled brush. Be very careful with liquids — never let cleaner seep into button gaps. If it’s not very dirty, skip liquid cleaners entirely.
Tips for Removing Mold from Door Trim
Damp door trim can easily grow mold, which looks unsightly and makes the car appear dirty. To remove mold from the interior, including door trim, mix dish soap and laundry detergent with water.
Apply the solution to a microfiber cloth or sponge and scrub the affected area until the mold disappears. Dry thoroughly with a clean cloth afterward. You can also use interior cleaner for this purpose.
There you have it — several tips for cleaning car door trim. Besides the methods above, you can also use hot steam cleaning for a quicker and more practical interior refresh. Happy cleaning!
