Keeping your car rims clean not only helps improve their appearance but also protects them from corrosion and damage. It can be expensive to purchase specialized cleaning products for car rims, especially if you clean them frequently.
Luckily, there are several cheap and effective ways to clean car rims using common household items. Some of these tips maybe unfamiliar but they are effective.
Here are some of the cheapest ways to clean car rims:
Soap and water
The most basic and inexpensive way to clean car rims is to use soap and water. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water in a bucket and use a sponge or soft-bristled brush to scrub the rims.
Rinse the rims thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean towel. This method is effective for removing dirt and grime, but it may not be enough to remove stubborn stains or brake dust.
Baking soda and water
Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help remove tough stains and grime from car rims. Mix baking soda with water to create a paste and apply it to the rims using a soft-bristled brush. Scrub the rims gently and rinse them thoroughly with water.
Dry the rims with a clean towel. This method is effective for removing brake dust, but it may not be suitable for rims with a polished finish as the baking soda may scratch the surface.
Vinegar and water
Vinegar is a natural acid that can help dissolve brake dust and other stubborn stains on car rims. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution onto the rims. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing the rims with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the rims thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean towel. This method is effective for removing brake dust and other tough stains, but it may not be suitable for rims with a polished finish as the vinegar may etch the surface.
Toothpaste: for deeper cleaning
Toothpaste is a mild abrasive that can help remove stains and grime from car rims. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a soft-bristled brush and scrub the rims gently. Rinse the rims thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean towel.
This method is effective for removing brake dust and other stains, but it may not be suitable for rims with a polished finish as the toothpaste may scratch the surface.
Club soda
Club soda is a carbonated beverage that can help loosen dirt and grime from car rims. Pour some club soda onto a clean sponge or soft-bristled brush and scrub the rims gently.
Rinse the rims thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean towel. This method is effective for removing light dirt and grime, but it may not be enough to remove tough stains or brake dust.
In conclusion
Keeping your car rims clean doesn’t have to be expensive. With these cheap and effective methods, you can clean your car rims using common household items. It’s important to remember that different cleaning methods may be suitable for different types of rims.
Always check your car manual or consult with a professional if you’re unsure about which cleaning method to use for your specific rims.
