If you don’t clean your steering wheel regularly, it can turn into a hotbed for dirt, grime, bacteria, and other contaminants over time. Cleaning your car’s steering wheel is no biggie. The right equipment, proper techniques, and elbow grease can help your steering wheel shine again. Here’s our ultimate guide on how to clean a steering wheel, the best steering wheel cleaners, and how to use them.
How to clean a steering wheel
Things you’ll need
- Cleaning solution
- Water
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft interior brush or toothbrush
- Steam machine
Step 1
Start by identifying the material of your steering wheel before choosing a cleaner. Steering wheels can be made from materials like leather, faux leather, plastic, wood, or vinyl, and each requires a different cleaning approach. Using the wrong product may damage the surface, cause discoloration, or wear down the finish over time.
For plastic or faux leather steering wheels, use a mild all-purpose interior cleaner. Wooden steering wheels should be cleaned using a dedicated wood polish or cleaner. If your steering wheel is made of genuine leather, use a leather cleaner or conditioner designed specifically for automotive interiors. If you’re unsure about the material, check your vehicle owner’s manual before applying any product.
Step 2
Now spray the cleaning solution onto the microfiber cloth. Spraying the cleaning solution directly onto the steering wheel is not a great idea since it can get trapped behind the wheel on the dashboard.
Step 3
Next, place the towel on the wheel and begin the cleaning process. Turn the towel 360 degrees to clean all the sides of the wheel. Make sure you cover the entire circumference of the wheel.
If you notice any dirt and grime on the steering wheel, scrub and remove it. Ensure you do not apply a lot of pressure while cleaning, as it can damage the material’s color. Also, remember to clean the center of the wheel.
Step 4
The steps mentioned above can help lift off light dirt on the steering wheel. To remove deeply embedded dirt and dust, you need to clean it more thoroughly. You will require a cleaner, a soft interior brush, or a toothbrush for this step.
Spray the cleaning solution onto the brush and begin cleaning the wheel. Scrub in small circles till it starts to bubble. After getting rid of the dirt, remove the cleaner with a damp cloth. Repeat the same step till you cover the wheel.
Step 5
Wet a clean cloth. If there’s excess water, wring it out. Using the wet cloth, revisit the cleaned areas. The goal is to remove any remaining dirt and clean it. If you run out of cleaning clothes, you can use paper towels too.
Step 6
Using a microfiber towel, dry the steering wheel. Don’t let the cleaner stay longer on the wheel. As soon as you wipe the steering wheel with water, use the microfiber towel to remove it.
Step 7
This is an optional step. You can follow this if you have access to a steam machine. First, fill the steam machine with distilled water and turn it on. Use a single-hole nozzle to spray the steering wheel and wipe off the dirt with a microfiber towel. In this method, you can kill any bacteria present in the wheel and remove other dirt.
What is the best steering wheel cleaner and how to use it?
When you’re choosing a steering wheel cleaner, consider an automotive all-purpose cleaner and melamine foam, which is slightly abrasive and should be used with caution. You can also use a leather cleaner on leather steering wheels and an interior detailer on plastic steering wheels. Meguiar’s Gold Class Rich Leather Spray, SONAX Wheel Cleaner Plus, Gyeon Strong Leather Cleaner, etc, are some of the best steering wheel cleaners out there.
The best steering wheel cleaner for faux leather
The TriNova Leatherette, Vinyl, and Faux Leather Cleaner & Conditioner is the best steering wheel cleaner for faux leather. It can effortlessly remove the dirt and grime from your steering wheel and make it look shiny again. Also, the two-in-one product can prevent any cracking and fading due to continuous use.
You can buy this product on Amazon. First, shake the bottle and spray it onto an applicator or microfiber towel to clean the steering wheel effectively. Then, clean the steering wheel in circular motions and allow the wheel to dry for 35-35 minutes. Next, using a dry cloth, buff the surface. Finally, clean your faux leather once a month using this product to maintain it.
The best steering wheel cleaner for plastic
Meguair’s Quik Interior Detailer Cleaner Spray is the best for plastic steering wheels. The product is great on vinyl, rubber, metal, and leather. To clean, spray the product on the wheel and wipe it off with a microfiber towel. It’s very effective and does not leave a greasy appearance or feel. What’s more, the product contains sun-blocking agents to prevent fading.
The best steering wheel cleaner for synthetic resins
If you’re looking to clean your steering wheel made of synthetic resins, try using the Mr. Pink Super Suds Superior Surface Cleaner Car Wash Shampoo. Car wash shampoo can perfectly remove contaminants from your synthetic resin steering wheel.
Mix the solution with water and dilute it. Next, rinse the steering wheel with the mixed solution and wipe it down with a wash mitt. Lastly, rinse with water to remove the suds and dry them with a microfiber towel.
The best cleaner for microfiber steering wheels
Microfiber steering wheels are often challenging to clean, and this is where ForceField Fabric Cleaner can help you. The ForceField Fabric Cleaner can effectively clean deeply embedded dirt and tough stains. The product will also repel dirt and grime and prevent re-soiling.
Spray the cleaner directly on the desired spot. Allow the cleaner to sit for 5-6 minutes and blot to remove the stain. Use a soft brush to clean if the stain is too stubborn. The product is available on Amazon.
The best steering wheel cleaner for suede
We recommend using vinegar, and it’s an excellent option. Use a soft cloth, add an optimal amount of vinegar, and gently scrub the wheel. To remove loose debris, use a dry brush.
The best steering wheel cleaner for Alcantara
Alcantara steering wheels are soft and durable and provide great grip and comfort. So it’s best to invest in a specialized cleaning product. The best steering wheel cleaner for Alcantara is SONAX Upholstery & Alcantara Cleaner, which is one of the best products. It can bring back your Alcantara’s color, look, and feel.
To use the product, shake the bottle of cleaner. Moisten the soiled area. Next, apply the foam to the soiled area and rub using a brush. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and rub again using a damp cloth. Allow it to dry afterward.
The best steering wheel cleaner for wood
The Original Bee’s Wax Furniture Polish is the best product to clean your classic wood steering wheel. It can help maintain the wood’s beauty and protect it from various contaminants. The product can be used on marble, glass, stainless steel, granite, and mirrors. Also, the product does not leave any fingerprints or wax buildup over time.
How to clean a sticky steering wheel
Can you use glass cleaner on the steering wheel?
Yes, you can! It can be a good option as it can be used on multiple surfaces, dries swiftly, and doesn’t leave an adhesive residue. However, these cleaners can be rough and damage your vehicle’s paint over time. The cleaner also comprises ammonia, which removes the protectant or wax from paint and may pigment it if not cleaned before drying.
What is the best cleaner for a leather steering wheel?
While picking a leather steering wheel cleaner, consider the following:
- Cleaning agent: Instead of using abrasive detergents or soaps, which can damage leather, use a leather cleaner exclusively made for automotive use.
- Brushes and cloths: Use soft leather brushes and smooth microfiber cloths.
- Antibacterial wipes and gels: Never use wipes or gels that contain alcohol, as these can dry up leather and lead to cracks and wear.
Chemical Guys Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Leather Kit, Meguiar’s G18616 Gold Class Leather Conditioner, and Chemical Guys Sprayable Leather Cleaner & Conditioner in One, etc., are some of the best leather steering wheel cleaners available.
Useful tips for cleaning a steering wheel
- Clean your car’s steering wheel at least once a month.
- Remember to add your steering wheel to the interior cleaning checklist.
- While cleaning the car’s interior, wear protective gear like gloves and goggles since you’ll be dealing with solutions containing chemicals.
- Choose the right product based on your steering wheel material.
- Don’t scrub the steering wheel roughly. Instead, be gentle while cleaning it.
- Use the right amount of steering wheel cleaner. Don’t overspray it.
Anna Hughes enjoys turning complicated automotive topics into practical, reader-friendly content that helps everyday drivers feel more confident about car ownership. Her goal is to make learning about cars less stressful and a little more interesting along the way.
