How a detailer deep cleans a filthy car
- GT Detailing owner Gabe Tyler transforms a stained, trashed-filled Ford Escape to look brand new.
- Cleaning from top to bottom can help avoid cleaning the same area twice.
- Steam cleaners help re-melt previously melted candy and chocolate for an easier cleanup.
Following is a transcript of the video.
Narrator:
This Ford Escape came to GT Detailing covered in stains, trash, and debris. Owner and operator Gabe Tyler walks us through 10 techniques to transform dirty cars to look brand new.
The detail started by removing the stained seats and floor mats. Gabe evaluates whether the seat needs to be removed, depending on any stains under the seat or between the center console.
Once the floor was exposed, Gabe separated the trash and customer's personal belongings, using his hand to remove the bigger items and a vacuum to clean up any leftover trash.
He cleaned the doorjambs with a degreaser and brush, followed by a power washer to remove any dirt or gunk. This step is done early in the detailing process and before shampooing in case water sprays on the carpet.
A vacuum removed as much dirt and junk as possible from around the car, including the floor, seats, and under the spare-tire cover.
After vacuuming, Gabe started the chemical cleaning process, working from the top down to avoid double cleaning due to chemicals and soap dripping down. To remove stains on the headliner, he used a spray, drill brush, and microfiber towel.
He deep cleaned the floor mats with a pressure washer and shampoo and then hung them to dry.
To restore the seats, Gabe used a steam cleaner, dry brush, and extractor to remove any stains. He prefers to use McCulloch steamers because there are multiple attachments to choose from.
Moving to the carpet, Gabe sprayed a carpet cleaner and used an agitator to bring hidden dirt to the surface, sucking it up with a Mytee extractor.
He steam cleaned the steering wheel and pedals with a brush attachment. Steam cleaners help remelt dried melted gunk, like candy and chocolate, for an easier removal.
He treated the door panels with a vacuum, spray, steam cleaner, and microfiber towel. For plastic surfaces, Gabe works in small sections to ensure he doesn't miss any spots. Once the plastic surfaces were clean, he applied a plastic UV protector.
Gabe reinstalled the seats and floor mats into the car and cleaned the glass, and the detailing was complete.