You asked, and our team has answered! Whether or not you participated in the Expand Your Knowledge activity, you’re sure to learn a few things from our product experts.
Interior/Exterior Maintenance
What products should I use for regular cleaning of the different types of surfaces in my car's interior? This would include, leather vs faux leather, plastics, wood and metal. Are cleaners specific to a material type?
@Jenn: Happy to help! A great, all-around cleaner would be our tried-and-true Krud Kutter Original. It is color fast, fabric safe, and leaves no residue. As always, we suggest applying to an inconspicuous test area first whenever there is doubt before using it on the entire surface. You can use an all-purpose formula (1½ cups of concentrate to 1 gallon of water) for general cleaning and full strength for difficult stains, dirt, oil, and grease. Hopefully this helps, and let us know if you need anything else!
How do I clean the footwells after a heavy winter of snow, dirt and salt stains? Do I need to purchase a car rug shampoo accessory?
@Pete: Good news!!! You do NOT have to purchase a car rug shampoo accessory!
For a quick household remedy, you can use a vinegar and water (50/50) solution but for a situation where it’s really caked on and built up Rust-Oleum has Krud Kutter - Rust, Calcium and Lime Remover. This product can take any type of salt and dirt out of your carpets or any surface actually!
For heavy stains apply product full strength. For medium-light stains, mix equal parts of the product with water (50/50).
Apply directly onto the surface and allow it to sit briefly. Rub lightly with a sponge or brush until the stains are gone.
That's it! Simple!
What about in a hot damp climate, what products should I use to prevent and/or remove mildew and mold? Thx!
@Jenn: Great question! Our Concrobium Mold Control will do just the trick. It can be applied to a variety of surfaces and will provide lasting mold and mildew protection. Just keep in mind we wouldn't recommend it for areas that would get wet frequently as it can wash off.
https://www.concrobium.com/products/mold-control-spray/
Windshield/glass damage questions
Do you have any product to pre-treat a glass/windshield to minimize damage risk?
@Katy: While we do not have a product that will make glass chip or crack resistant, our Shield H2O Rain Repellent will help repel rain, mud, and dirt to help improve driving visibility.
https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/shield-h2o/shield-h2o-rain-repellent
And what about when damage does occur, do you have any products/advice to help remove minor rock chips/cracks? Thx!
@Katy: We hate to disappoint, but we do not offer a glass repair product at this time. However, we will be sure to pass your interest along to the proper teams!
Does Rust-Oleum offer a clear coat, gloss or matte, that is impervious to gasoline?
@Jenn: Great question! All of our Automotive Enamels can resist gasoline if it's accidentally splashed on the surface and wiped off right away. For increased resistance, we do offer our Automotive Engine Enamel, which has resistance to gasoline exposure but isn't necessarily impervious. If gasoline is left to pool or sit on the surface, as well as any prolonged immersion, that will adversely affect the paint. This product is also offered in a clear finish as well. However, keep in mind that we would only recommend it for high heat areas as it does need to be heated to cure properly. Hopefully, that helps and let us know if you have any other questions.
https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/auto/specialty-paints/engine-enamel/
Thanks to our Rusto Garage community members for their questions, and to @Jenn, @Katy, and @Pete for the expert advice. We welcome any other car care questions in the comments below.
