Most drivers pay attention to deep cleaning the car's cabin and exterior but rarely think about the trunk, which leads to an unhygienic and uncleaned trunk. A study by Aston University revealed that the car trunk (boot) is the dirtiest part of the car with 1425 bacteria. Whether you’ve dealt with a leaky grocery bag, oil stains, or a build-up of dirt from daily use, learning how to properly clean your trunk can extend the life of your car’s interior and improve your overall driving experience.
This guide walks you through a professional-level car trunk cleaning process using the proper tools and techniques used by auto detailing professionals.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Car Trunk
Tools You’ll Need
- Vacuum with Crevice Tool or Shop Vac: Choose a unit with strong suction and precision attachments to reach into seams and corners.
- Carpet or Upholstery Cleaner: Opt for a product designed for automotive fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals that can leave behind residue or damage the carpet fibers.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: Soft-bristled detailing brushes help agitate embedded debris without damaging the trunk liner or fabric weave
- Microfiber Towels: Use these for blotting, drying, and wiping without leaving lint behind.
Optional Add-ons
- Enzymatic cleaner for organic stains
- Rubber gloves to protect your hands during scrubbing
- Storage bins for reorganizing after cleaning
Step 1: Empty the Trunk and Remove the Carpet (If Possible)
Remove all stored items, including tool kits, emergency gear, and loose objects.
If your car’s trunk carpet is removable, take it out to allow deeper cleaning and access to underlying surfaces.
Step 2: Vacuum the Entire Trunk Thoroughly
Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to extract all loose debris, focusing on tight areas near the trunk lid hinges, spare tire well, and corner seams. For SUVs or hatchbacks, vacuum the side panels and vertical carpeted areas as well.
Step 3: Spot Clean Any Stains Using an Appropriate Cleaner
Apply a specialized automotive carpet cleaner directly on any visible stains. For organic spills like food or beverages, use an enzymatic cleaner to break down the residue.
Let the solution sit for the recommended time.
Step 4: Scrub Gently with a Brush to Lift Embedded Dirt
Using a soft-bristled brush, scrub the cleaning solution in circular motions. Focus on high-contact areas, but avoid over-saturating the carpet, especially near seams or foam-lined sections.
Step 5: Blot and Dry the Carpet to Prevent Odors
After scrubbing, use clean microfiber towels to blot up moisture. Ensure the trunk is well-ventilated during this process.
If possible, keep the trunk open with both the driver and passenger doors ajar to allow cross-ventilation.
Step 6: Clean Around the Trunk Lid, Seals, and Spare Tire Well
Grease, dust, and moisture often accumulate around rubber seals and the trunk latch. Wrap a cloth around a narrow brush to clean inside the seal grooves without damaging the rubber. Remove the spare tire and vacuum underneath it.
Step 7: Let Everything Air Dry Before Replacing Items
Do not reinstall the carpet or restock your trunk until all components are completely dry. Residual moisture may lead to mildew or odors over time.
Organizing the Trunk After Cleaning
Once your trunk is clean, keeping it organized prevents future messes.
- Sort items like emergency tools, reusable shopping bags, and travel gear, and store them in labeled bins or collapsible organizers.
- Use cargo nets or trunk straps to hold heavier items in place and prevent them from shifting during transit.
- Always place heavier objects closer to the rear axle to preserve balance and driving safety.
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Cleaning the trunk of any vehicle doesn’t always require a trip to the detailing shop. With the right tools and a bit of time, most vehicle owners can handle basic trunk carpet maintenance at home.
However, there are situations where a deeper clean is necessary like stubborn stains, unpleasant odors, or moisture-related damage that simple methods can’t resolve. In those cases, contacting to a professional detailing services ensures the job is done thoroughly and safely. A skilled detailer can extract deeply embedded contaminants, sanitize the affected areas, and restore your trunk to a like-new condition.
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