This is the Best Polish For Your Dashboard—and It’s in Your Pantry!

A budget-friendly way to make your dashboard shine—without chemicals.

When it comes to car maintenance, we’re often focusing our attention on what’s under the hood. But what about the interior, where we end up spending all of our time? Well, it turns out there’s an easy way to take your detailing game to the next level, and all it takes is a household item you’ve likely already got in your pantry.

The genius hack to make your dashboard shine

A little oil from the kitchen will make your dashboard look as new as the day you drove it off the lot. Allstate Car Insurance suggests using olive oil but any oil will do, whether it’s olive, vegetable or coconut oil. (Petroleum jelly is another favourite amongst car enthusiasts, according to the Polymer Science Learning Center.)

How to clean your dashboard with oil

First, give your dash a quick dusting to remove any dirt, grime, or dust that’s built up over time. Then just apply a small amount on a clean, soft cloth and wipe down your dashboard. Test this out on a small unnoticeable area first to make sure that no discolouration occurs and that you’re pleased with the results. Natural oils will actively restore shine while conditioning the surface of your dashboard while also helping prevent cracking and fading caused by UV rays.

Why use oil?

Using oil eliminates the funky stench caused by chemical cleaners. It also saves you money! You can spend between $2 and $10 on a bottle of chemical-filled car interior cleaner. You can put that money back in your pocket since it’s likely you already have some oil in the house.

Now you have one less plastic bottle taking up space in your home that will ultimately end up in the trash or at the recycling plant. So, using oil on your dashboard is good for your car, your wallet and the environment!

Now that you know how to make your dashboard shine, find out the car cleaning tips the pros don’t want you to know.

The Family Handyman
Originally Published on The Family Handyman