When it comes to looking after a classic car, it’s easy to focus on the engine, bodywork, and keeping it running smoothly. But what about the interior? A well-maintained cabin not only keeps things comfortable but also helps retain the car’s value—and makes a much better impression on renters if your car is listed on DRIVESHARE.
Whether your classic has plush leather seats, a polished wood dash, or vintage fabric upholstery, here are some key ways to keep it looking its best.
1. Give It a Regular Clean
Dust, dirt, and everyday grime build up faster than you’d think, especially in a car that’s regularly driven. A soft microfiber cloth and a gentle interior cleaner work well for most surfaces, while a soft brush or vacuum nozzle can tackle dust in air vents and between seats.
2. Protect Leather from Cracking
Leather seats are one of the most striking features of many classic cars, but they’re prone to cracking and fading over time. Using a quality leather conditioner every few months will keep them supple and prevent drying out. Keep the car out of direct sunlight where possible, or use a sunshade when parked.
3. Freshen Up Fabrics
Vintage fabric seats and carpets can hold onto smells, from mustiness to old fuel. Regular vacuuming and the occasional steam clean will help, while a small open container of baking soda left in the car overnight can absorb lingering odours.
4. Preserve Wood and Chrome Trim
If your classic has wooden dashboard trim or chrome details, keep them clean and polished to prevent dulling. Use a wood-specific polish and a non-abrasive cloth for wooden surfaces, and a chrome-friendly cleaner to maintain shine without scratching.
5. Avoid Excess Moisture
Older cars can be prone to damp, leading to mould and mildew. If the car is stored in a garage, make sure it’s well-ventilated, and consider using moisture-absorbing bags inside the car. If you spot any signs of dampness, dry the interior thoroughly to prevent damage.
6. Protect It from the Sun
Strong sunlight can fade upholstery and dashboards over time. If you’re parking outdoors for long periods, a windscreen sunshade or tinted window film can help reduce UV exposure and keep your interior from drying out or fading.
7. Keep It Smelling Fresh
A classic car should smell like leather, wood, or just a bit of nostalgia—not damp seats or stale fuel. Keeping a small natural air freshener, like a bag of activated charcoal or a few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball, can help maintain a clean scent without overpowering the car’s character.
8. Address Small Issues Before They Get Worse
A loose stitch on a seat, a minor tear in upholstery, or a small crack in the dash is easier (and cheaper) to fix early. A local upholstery specialist can often do quick repairs before they turn into bigger problems.
9. Keep It Clutter-Free
Classic cars weren’t designed with the modern-day storage solutions we’re used to. If you drive your classic regularly, keep things tidy by using a stylish period-correct storage box or pouch for essentials rather than stuffing papers, sunglasses, and chargers into door pockets.
10. Refresh Your DRIVESHARE Listing
If your car is listed on DRIVESHARE, a clean, well-maintained interior makes a big difference. Renters notice the details, and new, high-quality photos of your spotless cabin could help attract more bookings.
A classic car’s charm isn’t just in how it looks from the outside—it’s in the details, the craftsmanship, and the care taken to preserve its original character. Keeping the interior in good shape means you can enjoy it for longer, keep your DRIVESHARE renters happy, and maintain its value for years to come.
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