Last Updated on March 1, 2025 by Nate Schnell
Baking soda is one of the most versatile household cleaning agents, capable of tackling dirt, stains, and odors with ease. Many car owners look for cost-effective alternatives to expensive car cleaning products, leading to the question: can baking soda be used to wash a car? While it has powerful cleaning properties, it’s important to understand when and where it is safe to use on your vehicle.
What Does Baking Soda Do for Car Cleaning?
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is an excellent cleaner because it dissolves dirt, absorbs odors, and cuts through grease and oil stains. Its mild abrasiveness makes it effective for deep cleaning, but it also means that it must be used carefully on certain surfaces to avoid damage. While it is a great option for cleaning fabric and other durable materials, it should never be used on car paint, leather, or upholstery.
Where Can You Use Baking Soda on Your Car?
Cleaning Cloth Car Seats
Cloth car seats can withstand baking soda’s mild abrasiveness, making it a good choice for removing dirt, grease, and unpleasant odors. To clean cloth seats, mix a quarter cup of baking soda with a cup of warm water to create a paste. Apply the paste with a toothbrush, scrubbing gently before wiping away the residue with a clean, damp cloth. For tougher stains, pre-soaking the affected area with warm water before applying baking soda can help lift the stain more effectively.
Cleaning Faux Leather Car Seats
While baking soda is too abrasive for natural leather, it can be used on faux leather (vinyl) with care. A small amount of baking soda applied to a damp microfiber cloth can help lift stains without causing damage. It’s important to rub gently and follow up with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
Cleaning Cloth Car Floor Mats
For cloth floor mats, baking soda works as a powerful deodorizer and stain remover. After removing the mats from your car, lightly spray them with warm water, sprinkle baking soda evenly over the surface, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. A soft brush can then be used to scrub the fabric before vacuuming away any remaining residue.
Cleaning Carpets
Similar to cleaning cloth floor mats, baking soda can help freshen up car carpets by removing stains and neutralizing odors. Lightly misting the carpet with water before sprinkling baking soda allows for deeper penetration, making vacuuming more effective.
Cleaning Seat Belts & Shoulder Straps
Seat belts and shoulder straps collect dirt over time and can benefit from occasional cleaning. A paste made from baking soda and warm water can be applied, scrubbed with a toothbrush, and then wiped clean with a damp cloth. Removing the seat belt (if possible) before cleaning can make the process easier.
Cleaning Child Car Seats
Infant and toddler car seats can absorb stains and odors. If the seat fabric allows, using a baking soda paste followed by vacuuming can help eliminate unwanted smells. However, always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions before applying baking soda.
Cleaning Wheels and Rims
Baking soda can be highly effective for cleaning wheels and rims, especially for breaking down dirt and brake dust. Applying a paste made with baking soda and warm water, letting it sit for a few minutes, and then scrubbing with a soft brush can restore shine to the rims. For additional cleaning power, mixing baking soda with a small amount of white vinegar enhances its stain-lifting abilities.
Where NOT to Use Baking Soda on Your Car
While baking soda is an excellent cleaner for certain surfaces, it should be avoided on the following:
- Car Paint: Its abrasiveness can scratch and dull the clear coat, leading to long-term damage.
- Rubber Floor Mats: Baking soda can degrade rubber over time, making it brittle.
- Upholstery: The delicate fibers of car upholstery may not react well to baking soda’s gritty texture.
- Leather Seats: The fine finish of leather can crack or deteriorate when exposed to baking soda’s drying properties.
Final Thoughts
Baking soda can be a useful and budget-friendly option for cleaning various parts of your car, but it must be used with caution. It’s an effective cleaner for cloth fabrics, carpets, and wheels but should be avoided on painted surfaces, leather, and rubber components. When used correctly, it can help keep your car’s interior fresh and clean without the need for expensive cleaning products.
