How-to: DIY tips for car cleaning that will have you detailing your car like a pro

Your car will look brand new by following these easy interior and exterior car cleaning methods that you yourself can try.

Best Way to Clean a Car: Destink the Interior

To neutralize the smoke from tobacco, buy an aerosol container like Dakota Non-Smoke. Hold the can between 12 and 14 inches away from the fabric and then lightly spray the headliner (don't get it wet) as well as the doors, seats, and carpet. Then, turn the fan to high and turn the system to recirculate mode ("max. A/C" in the event that you don't have this option). Locate the intake opening by holding a tissue close to the motor that blows. Spray the mist through the opening. Close the windows for at least an hour. Your car may smell like powder for babies for a few minutes; however, it will disappear. It's also possible to change the air filter in your car once you've done this.

Best Way to Clean a Car: Wash the Windows, Including the Top Edges

Have you noticed the streak of dirt that appears on the windows' tops when they're not fully rolled down? The majority of people do not pay attention to this issue when they give their car an easy clean. Just a few minutes using Windex and an abrasive cleaning is all it requires.

Best Way to Clean a Car: Clean the Leather

It might sound harsh; however, if you have leather upholstery, purchase an upholstery-cleaning kit and store it in your vehicle. If you wash the spills immediately, it increases your chances of having a thorough clean-up. If you put off cleaning for too long, lipstick, ink, and dye spills on clothing (and plastic bags for shopping) will set within 24 hours. Make sure to treat the fabric with conditioner prior to when you begin the process of removing the stain. Use the ink lifting device directly on the leather that has been treated and then rub it into it. Allow it to rest for 30 seconds, and then wipe it clean with a clean, dry cloth. Apply cleansers for leather and protection cream.

Lubricate Hood Hinges

Wipe the hinge's surface using a clean rag, then paint it using white lithium grease. You can also spray it with a small amount of regular motor oil. The hinge should be moved several times to incorporate the grease into the hinge. Make sure you get it on the two sides of the hinge. Remove any excess and stop it from collecting debris.

Best Way to Wash a Car: Rinse Before Washing

If you blow up your dry paint by using soapy water, it will grind the dust from the surface and road grit in your paint finish. Professional detailers start with a clean water rinse to clean the dirt and dust as they can.

Best Way to Clean a Car: Polish the Finish

Many auto owners mistakenly think that polishing is the same as waxing. However, they're two distinct steps. Polishing eliminates minor surface imperfections and scratches and then buffs the finish to create a glossy finish. The waxing process adds gloss and shields the finish against the weather. The majority of DIYers do not polish their cars since they don't want to pay for polishers or elbow grease required for a hand polish. But polishing your car's finish is essential to get the highest gloss (pros don't skip polishing). Apply a little polish on the pad and rub the pad over an area of 2 X 2 feet. Use the polisher at a low pace to distribute the compound across all of the areas to provide the most effective car cleaner. After that, increase the speed and let the machine do the job for you.