What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've spent 15 years cleaning everything from dust-caked LandCruisers to my missus' hatchback, and I've learned that a solid plan saves you hours. This is about getting the red dust out and protecting your plastics from that brutal Aussie UV. Grab a cold one, chuck on some tunes, and let's get into it.
The Essential Gear
What You'll Need
Pre-Start Checklist
What You'll Need
While you're here...
The Process
The Big Blowout
Use a brush or compressed air to flick dust out of the tight spots while vacuuming. This is the only way to get red dust out of seams.
Top-Down Clean
Start with the headliner (be gentle!) and work down to the dash. Spray APC on your cloth, not the dash, to avoid 'overspray' on the glass.
Scrub the High-Touch Points
Steering wheels and door handles get filthy with skin oils and sunscreen. Use a soft brush and APC to lift the grime, then wipe dry immediately.
The UV Shield
Apply your protectant to all plastics. I learned this the hard way on a black Commodore, if you skip this, our sun will crack that dash in no time.
Glass and Tech
Use a clean microfibre for the glass. For touchscreens, stick to a dry cloth or a dedicated screen cleaner so you don't delaminate the coating.
The Final Floor Pass
One last vacuum once the dust has settled. This is when you put the mats back in. No dramas if you missed a spot earlier, just grab it now.
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
Watch Out
Quick Questions
How do I get rid of that 'coastal' salt smell?
The red dust is stuck in my leather grains!
Trusted by 50,000+ Aussie car owners
Professional advice for Australian conditions
Products We Recommend
Keep Learning
Ready to level up your car care?
You've got the knowledge—now put it into action. Explore more guides or check out our recommended products.
Get Weekly Car Care Tips
Join 12,000+ Aussie car enthusiasts
Keep Reading
Restoring Your Interior Like a Pro (Mar 2026)
Dust, sweat, and the Aussie sun absolutely wreck car interiors over time. Here is how I restore leather, fabric, and plastics to a factory finish using the same techniques I use in my detailing business.
How to Detail Your Interior for a Quick Sale
Getting top dollar for your car starts with the first impression inside the cabin. I'll show you how to strip out years of red dust and coffee stains to make a buyer reach for their wallet.
Deep Cleaning Your Interior Like a Pro
Summer's over and your car's interior has likely copped a beating from the heat, sand, and dust. Here is how to strip back the grime and protect your cabin from the harsh Aussie UV that's still hanging around.
Keeping Your Caravan Interior Fresh After a Dusty Summer
Red dust and coastal salt can ruin a camper's interior faster than you'd think. Here is how to get the grit out and protect your surfaces from the February heat.

