Yes, you can use an all-purpose cleaner (APC) in your car, but it must be used with extreme caution and is not suitable for all surfaces. The key is to dilute it properly and avoid sensitive areas like leather, screens, and high-end fabrics. Using an APC incorrectly can cause permanent damage, so understanding its proper application is crucial.
An APC is designed to break down grease, grime, and dirt. It works well on durable, non-porous surfaces. In a car, the safest places to use a diluted APC are:
- Rubber floor mats: Spray, scrub, and rinse thoroughly.
- Plastic door sills and trim: Wipe down with a microfiber cloth dampened with the APC solution.
- Tire sidewalls: Effective for removing brake dust.
However, many car interiors are not durable plastic. Using an APC here can lead to costly mistakes. You should never use a standard APC on:
- Leather/Upholstery: APCs are too harsh and will strip natural oils from leather, causing it to dry out, crack, and fade. They can also stain or degrade cloth or Alcantara fabrics.
- Infotainment Screens/Dash Displays: The chemicals can damage anti-glare and oleophobic coatings.
- Painted Surfaces: Some APCs can degrade wax or sealant protection or even dull the paint over time.
For a safe clean, always dilute the APC according to the bottle's instructions for light-duty cleaning—often a 10:1 water-to-APC ratio. Always do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first. After cleaning, wipe the surface with a clean, water-dampened cloth to remove any chemical residue.
| Recommended APC Dilution for Auto Use | |
|---|
| Heavy Grime (Tires, Engine Bay) | 4:1 (Water to APC) |
| General Interior Plastics | 10:1 |
| Light Duty / Vinyl | 15:1 |
| Always | Perform a Spot Test First |
Ultimately, for most interior surfaces like dashboards and seats, purpose-built automotive interior cleaners are a safer, more effective choice as they are specifically formulated to clean without damaging sensitive materials.
