How to care for your classic car’s upholstery

There’s nothing quite like the inside of a classic car, whether it’s the nostalgic smell that emanates when you open the door, the craftsmanship of the interior or - as we are talking about today - the upholstery. Like any car, our classics need regular cleaning and care to keep them looking, smelling and feeling tip-top, but there’s a certain level of extra care that needs to be taken due to the age of the car. 

Here’s how to properly care for every part of your classic car’s interior, from vacuuming tips, the products to use (or not use, in some cases!) to specific fabric cleaning information.

General upholstery care tips

All cars accumulate dirt, food and bacteria from general use - and if you drive your classic car in inclement weather, there is likely to be a bit of mud in the mix, too.

Regular vacuuming is the foundation of interior cleaning. Use a soft-bristled brush attachment to gently lift any dust and debris without damaging delicate fabrics or stitching. Don’t forget to pay attention to any crevices, the seams, and in between seat cushions. A handheld vacuum or one with adjustable suction power is probably ideal for classic interiors that may have more fragile finishes.

When it comes to products, don’t use household cleaners, bleach, ammonia-based products or strong degreasers on your car’s upholstery. These can strip away any protective coatings and potentially discolour the fabric. Instead, use specialist products that are formulated for use on cars. Also, always check that you know exactly what material you are working on - it might look like leather, but is it actually…

Try not to smoke in your classic, and clear up any spillages of food or drink as quickly as you can. If you have any stains that you can’t shift, a professional clean might be needed.

Caring for leather

Leather is often a prominent feature in many classic models. Whilst it is relatively easy to keep clean, it does need a bit of special care to stay supple and crack-free. When cleaning it, use a pH-balanced leather cleaner and a soft microfibre cloth. Avoid saturating the leather - less is more here. Don’t use anything alcohol-based, as it dries the leather out.

After cleaning and when totally dry, apply a leather conditioner designed for classic or vintage interiors. This keeps the leather moisturised and prevents it from drying out or fading. It’s easier said than done, but try to reduce UV exposure, which can fade and weaken leather over time.

Caring for fabrics and other materials

As a general rule, fabric seats require regular vacuuming and just spot cleaning, using minimal moisture to avoid soaking the underlying cushioning.

Vinyl

Vinyl is durable but it can become brittle over time. Wipe it down with a vinyl-safe cleaner or a mix of warm water and a dash of mild soap if it does need a clean. Dry with a soft, dry cloth to prevent water spots occurring. Use a vinyl protectant afterwards to prevent any cracking and fading, particularly in sun-exposed vehicles. 

Nylon

Nylon can be one of the more common synthetic materials used in some cars. For this, use a foam-based upholstery cleaner and gently (gently!) scrub with a soft-bristled brush and then blot with a clean towel. Always allow nylon seats to dry thoroughly to prevent mould developing, so air the car well afterwards.

Microsuede

A more modern material in some classics, microsuede (polyester) mimics the feel of suede but thankfully with easier maintenance. Use a specialist microsuede cleaner or a light mixture of water and mild soap, and gently blot stains rather than scrub at them, then rinse with just water. Avoid using excessive water, which can leave marks or flatten the fibres.

PVC

PVC is tough but, again, prone to cracking if neglected. You can use a specialist cleaner, or use warm water and a very mild detergent/soap with a soft cloth or sponge. Let it dry properly, then finish it off with a UV-resistant protectant to maintain flexibility and prevent brittleness.

Caring for carpets and mats

Floor carpets on classic cars likely have endured - and still do endure - a lot of wear, especially in those driven a lot.

Use a crevice tool on the vacuum cleaner for corners and a brush attachment for the pile. You can wash them with a dedicated carpet shampoo or foam cleaner. Avoid over-wetting, which can damage the underlay.

For rubber mats, clean these with warm soapy water, dry them thoroughly, and then treat with a rubber protectant to prevent them cracking.

Don’t forget the boot!

The boot often gets overlooked, but a tidy, well-maintained boot is important, and it can get very dirty over time if used for storing items such as wellies.

Remove all the items from inside and thoroughly vacuum the boot floor, walls, and spare wheel well if you’ve got one. For fabric linings, use a light upholstery cleaner, and for rubberised linings or mats, wash these with soapy water and allow to air dry.

It’s important to ensure the boot seal is intact and in a good condition, to avoid dampness which can in turn lead to mould developing.

Convertible interiors

Now these need a mention! Convertibles can present unique challenges at times due to their exposure to the elements. Always store your convertible with the roof up to maintain its shape and prevent creases. For fabric tops, use a soft brush and a convertible fabric cleaner. Avoid pressure washers, which can damage stitching and seals! For vinyl tops, use a vinyl-specific cleaner and apply UV protectant regularly. For protection, you could use a weather-resistant car cover if the car is kept outdoors.

As you can see, caring for your classic car’s interior isn’t just about keeping it clean - it’s about helping to preserve it and ensure its continuing longevity. If you can make it a regular thing, and use the right techniques and products, you’ll no doubt ensure your cherished classic remains a beautiful, functional joy for many more years to come.