How to Clean Salt Stains from Car Carpeting

One stain that often affects automobile carpeting is actually from salt. Where does this salt come from that ruins your carpet? Well, it usually comes from the bottom of your shoes after walking on a newly-salted icy path.

No matter the origin of the salt that has stained your vehicle carpet, it can be cleaned. However, it requires knowledge of the right steps but of course you should gather your supplies.

Supplies Needed:

To clean salt stains of your automobile (or truck) carpet you need a vacuum cleaner. You also need some carpet shampoo, water, white vinegar, and soft clothes and/or soft sponges. You also need a bucket.

Here are the steps to removing the salt stains:

1. Vacuum as much of the salt residue as you can before you beging the cleaning process.
2. Mix approximately a capful of carpet of shampoo in a bucket of lukewarm water.
3. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into your newly-prepared carpet shampoo solution and water solution.
4. Let the carpet shampoo solution sit for at least several minutes. This will help dissolve the salt granules.
5. Blot soaked area with a clean cloth. This will further help remove the salt from the carpet. Even better yet, if you happen to own a shop vac that sucks up water it would make this step much easier.
6. Rinse the treated area with cool water. Then, blot with clean cloths to help remove the soapy substance as well as any remaining salt particles from the carpet.
7. You might go through several cloths for several minutes before you have successfully rinsed all the shampoo out of the carpet. You may also need to repeat all the above steps.

Additional salt removal steps to apply if necessary:

If the steps you tried above did not work, try mixing a half and half concentration of water and vinegar in a bucket. Mix this solution and then apply it generously to the salt-stained carpet and let this solution sit for 15 minutews.

Rinse with clean water while blotting out the vinegar-water solution and the remaining salt. If necessary, keep repeating this step until the salt is completely dissolved.

Additional Advice:

It may be possible to use the extensions of a home carpet cleaner for this project instead of completing the above steps by hand. You could also take preventative action by purchasing rubber mats which you can find in most automotive departments or auto part stores for a reasonable price.

Of course, even a floor mat which is usually made of rubber will not safeguard the edges around the mats. Still, it is a significant improvement and will make the salt-cleaning process less arduous if you still choose to use steps found in this how-to article.

Of course, yet one more option is to have your car interior and carpets professionally cleaned. This is an option that is more costly but it can free up some of your time. That way you have more free time for friends, family, hobbies, excersize, and socialization.

How to Clean Rusty Jumper Cables

Jumper cables are not that expensive to replace. Still, if you want to prolong the life of the ones you have it is possible to clean the rust off of them.

Introduction:

You have two basic choices for cleaning off rusted jumper cables. One of them is the soda method and the other is the abrasive method. Both of these options require a slightly different collection of supplies to execute.

Supplies Needed:

Before you attempt any home project it helps to first gather your supplies. What you need depends upon which method of jumper cable rust cleaning you choose.

For the soda method you need these supplies: Coca Cola (There is something about the formula of this soft drink that makes it a great rust or corrosion cleaning aid.) You also need a bowl or glass as well as some soft cloths.

For the abrasive method you need these supplies: Steel wool pad, find grade sandpaper, soft cloths, and water.

Once you have gathered the appropriate supplies for the method of your choosing, follow the corresponding instructions. One section describes the soda cleaning procedure and the other describes the abrasive cleaning procedure.

The steps for executing the soda (Coca Cola) rust cleaning method is shown below:

1. Fill a cup or bowl with Coca Cola.
2. Put the rusted portin of the jumper cables into the soda.
3. Soak the cable ends in the soda for several hours.
4. Remove the rusted portion of the cables and wipe with a soft cloth.
5. If necessary, repeat the above steps. You can do this for as many times as possible without damaging your jumper cable ends.

If you would rather use the abrasive method, please follow these steps (alternative to the soda cleaning method):

1. Wipe away the loose rust particles with a cloth.
2. Use the steel wool pad or sandpaper to scrub off the rust from the metal jumper cable surfaces.
3.  Wipe the already-scrubbed jumper cable ends with a cloth moistened with clean water.
4. Make sure you dry the jumper cables immediately after using the wet cloth. This will help restore the original shine of the metal.

More Advice

You can restore the metal of your jumper cables. However, sometimes the process is more time consuming that it is worth. After all, a new set can be found for even less than $20.

In any case, the key to sucess in restoring any kind of metal is to make sure you wipe it dry complely. Otherwise, any water or moisture left on the surface could cause the rust to return, which of course would defeat the purpose. So, always wipe any metal surface dry. This cannot be stressed enough.

How to Clean Rust from Concrete Driveway

Rust not only affects the objects on which it originates, but it also ruins surfaces with which these rusted items come in contact. For instance, rusted metal that falls off cars could land in yoru driveway.

However, what we are talking about here in this article is rust that occurs as a result of using untreated water in lawn sprinkler systems. This rust that appears when lawn water runs to the driveway is a result of iron being present in the water.

The result of this is rust all over the concrete. However, even if your driveway is rusted there is no need-or not much need-to panic. There are ways to remove this type of stain, and one way to do this is explained in the sections to follow, after you are told what supplies are needed to accomplish this task.

Supplies Needed

For this driveway rust removal project you need these items: A broom, bucket, concrete rust remover, water, stir stick, and scrub brush. You might also be able to use a paint brush.

1. Sweep away all loose rust, dirt, and debris with a broom.
2. Mix some Concrete Rust Remover and water as directed by the manufacturer. The alternative would be to mix three tablespoons of this solution to each cup of water you use. Stir this solution with the water until it becomes a clear gel-like consistency.
3. Using a brush, you should apply the gel directly to the stain. Then let this solution sit for about 15 minutes, or until the stain fades away-whichever comes first.
4. Rinse the solution off with water. Then, repeat the above steps as many times as necessary in order to completely remove the rust, as long as doing so is safe for your driveway.
5. Important note: If your driveway is not concrete using this particular list of steps is not even recommended. You may instead need to find out what is appropriate for cobblestone, wood, asphalt, etc.

Additional Info and Advice

The Concrete Rust Remover does not have phosphates in it, and thus it is biodegradable. It will not harm plants or grass. However, you should still only mix exactly the amount you need. The reason why is this gel solution looses its effectiveness after a few hours, which means you cannot save the excess and expect it to work the next day, next week, etc.

One more important point is that even though the substances described above for removing rust from concrete are considered safe, you should still test it. Try it out on a hidden spot on your driveway (or just try it on a tiny spot of say a quarter size around.)

Testing the solutions you use to remove the rust as according to steps shown in this how-to article will save you embarrassing damages. It will also prevent you from costly repairs you could have otherwise avoided.

If you find that the solutions listed above are harmful to your particular kind of concrete driveway you may need to request a second opinion. Consult a friend, relative, or contractor. Someone may present to you an alternative solution that may work better in your case.

How to Clean Rust and Fire Damage from Hand Tools

Such is the plight of hand tools sometimes. They often are very subsceptible to fire damage especially if caught in a shop fire. They may work well but now they appear unsightly on the outside.

This may not be a high priority unless customers notice that you have rusty or worn-looking tools. This could be a cause for concern to them, thinking you do not know how to conduct business.

Therefore, you are advised to find a way to clean off your shop tools. First you should gather all necessities and then follow the steps you see below.

Supplies Needed:

For this project you will need these items: WD-40 (comes in a spray can and is often used to lubricate nuts, bolts, and screws for easier removal). You also need some Rust Free and T9, heavy duty Scotch-Brite Scouring Pads (or comparable brand of scrubbing devices), and clean rags.

If you want to remove the damage from your shop tools follow these steps:

1. Spray down the tools with a generous amount of WD-40.
2. It degreases the tools and breaks down the rust matter, thus making it easier to remove from your metal tools.
3. Use the scouring pad to scrub the tools. While doing so, try to remove as much of the surface discoloration as possible.
4. Wipe the remaining residue with a rag as thoroughly as possible. If the surface of your tools is almost clean you can repeat the steps above. Otherwise, if excess rust still remains you will have to use the Rust Free remover.
5. If you have just applied the Rust Free Remover it is advisable that you either rinse the scouring pad off you just used or use a brand new one. It is really better to use a brand new one to prevent damage that could occur from accidentally mixing the Rust Free with the other substance (WD-40) that you used.
6. 5. Once you have scrubbed with the Rust Free, wipe it immediately dry. Then, apply the T9 and wipe that completely dry, and wipe it off as soon as you apply it.

More Advice:

You may have been told in the past you can clean off hand tools with sandpaper. However, this is not recommended and could cause further problems. For instance, it could cause accelerated wear and tear and you may even be required to replace your hand tools faster than you would like.

However, if you want to prevent further tool corrosion there is one more thing you can do. You can use vapor corrosion strips to prolong the life of your hand-held garage or shop equipment. Of course, replacement of your tools is eventually inevitable.

This is true especially if you purchased less expensive items made from less durable materials. In the event you have to purchase new tools try to find as high of quality of equipment as you can afford. In the end you will then spend less money replacing your valuable equipment which is intended to last anyway

How to Clean Oxidized Aluminum Wheels

Over time a process called oxidization can dull your aluminum wheels on your vehicle. The good news is there is a way to restore them that requires very little expense. You can do this right at home.

Supplies Needed:

You need some mild detergent, rags, water, wet/dry sandpaper (several sheets of the 400 to 600 grit and fine grit), microfiber cloth, bucket, clear protective coat. (The coating should be made especially for use on aluminum.

This is the basic list of aluminum oxidization removal steps:

1. Fill a bucket with warm water and add soap to it. Swish together these ingredients until suds form.
2. Dip a rag into the soapy and water mixture and use it to wipe the dirt and grime off your aluminum wheels.
3. Use the 400 to 600 grit wet/dry sandpaper to sand the rims. You should do this by hand and NOT with power tools. Otherwise, you could overdo it and ruin the metal. Nevertheless, you may go through several sheets of sandpaper before the aluminum is as smooth and as shiny as you want it.
4. After the aluminum surface is very smooth, use fine grit paper to buff it up. This will help remove any scratches and grooves caused by using the rougher grade of sandpaper.
5. Wipe away the dust residue with a clean microfiber cloth. Then, add the clear protective aluminum coating according to the product instructions.

More Advice:

If your brakes are regularly maintained, it will help keep dirt off your rims. Thus, aluminum rim repair and cleaning will not be necessary as often.

You can also wipe off your aluminum rims once a week to prevent damage. This also helps get rid of dirt so it does not accumulate. You could also take your vehicle to a car wash regularly-either to one where you can clean it yourself or to an automated or full-service center.

Safety Tips:

You might consider using protective gear such as goggles and gloves at least when applying the aluminum clear coating. This will safeguard you from injury that could occur as a result of an accidental spill.

You are also advised to keep all cleaning supplies a safe distance away from your vehicle. This will prevent accidental spillage of any substance, but especially it will prevent spills of hard-to-remove chemicals. This again is specifically referring to the clear coating which has some toxic substances in it.

Alternative Treatment Action:

Of course, if you want shiny aluminum rims but you do not want to take the time to clean or polish them you can have a professional do it. This is more costly than doing it yourself but you will have the peace of mind it is done right as long as you go to a qualified expert.

It also frees up some of your time you would rather spend socializing, sleeping, or working. Having a professional do this job also frees up more time for hobbies you enjoy if taking care of your car is not one of them! However, the choice is yours.

How to Clean Fuel Injectors

It is important to keep your vehicle’s fuel line as clean as possible. This will help you run your car, truck, van, or other automobile much more efficiently and thus you will save on gas costs.

One very important part of the fuel line that needs to be clean occasionally is the fuel injector. Of course, some knowledge of car maintenance is helpful. However, it is never too late to learn this very important lesson on vehicle care.

Supplies Needed

To make your fuel injector project easier, you should purchase a few injector cleaning kit. You can find them at an auto supply outlet, but they do cost $100. You are also going to need a screwdriver.

Steps to clean your fuel injector using the store-bought kit are basically described as below (and you can follow these unless the instructions provided in the kit are different:

1. Either disable the fuel pump and plug the fuel return line or install a U-tube to force the fuel to return directly to the tank.
2. Disconnect the pressure regulator and connect the cleaning kit to the fuel port located on the fuel rail.

 

1. Replace the fuel cap. This will prevent excessive pressure buildup that is often characteristic of fuel injector cleaning.
2. Make sure during this entire process that the engine will not turn over. Turn the ignition accordingly to prevent this from happening.
3. Open and re-open the kit valve until the fuel pressure is measured at a rate appropriate for your vehicle. You should refer to your vehicles owner’s manual for more information.
4. Start your vehicle’s engine. This will allow the cleaning solution to circulate though the injectors. Let your vehicle run until the solvent evaporates, which would be in about five minutes. At this time your engine should be shut down.
5. Reset the fuel pump switch and replace the gas cap. After that, reconnect the pressure regulator and once again start the engine.
6. Use the long screwdriver to detect rapid clicking sounds. This will ensure that your injector is operating properly.

Alternative Methods

For busy people who do not want to take the time to clean their own vehicle’s fuel injector, there is professional help. For only about $40 you can have your fuel injector cleaned for you and to some people this is a small price to pay if they do not have the time and do not want the hassle.

You could also remove the fuel injector and then clean it. However, the equipment involved in doing so could cost you more money than you have or more money than you want to spend (thousands of dollars).

Therefore, the professional cleaning service is usually the best way to go unless you buy the $100 cleaning kit. It’s up to you. Some people like the peace of mind of having someone who knows what they are doing handling this task. However, if you know a little bit about cars you probably could handle cleaning your own vehicle’s injector and/or gas line.

How to Clean a Nickel-Plated Radiator

A nickel-plated radiator is quite attractive, especially when shining up a vehicle engine before the automobile is modeled at a car show. However, repairing it can be quite costly, especially if you were to opt to have it re-plated professionally.

You can cut down on repair costs as long as you know what supplies are needed for either cleaning or treating. Learning the right steps for cleaning or treatment of your nickel-plated radiator would also help.

Introductory Facts

Nickel-plated metal can become dulled, corroded, oxidized, discolored, tarnished, or otherwise altered. Oftentimes this is a result of environmental chemical reactions. Using the right supplies and the right steps can restore the nickel-plated radiator.

Supplies Needed

Warm water, dish washing liquid, scouring pad, bucket, towel, steel wool pad (fine #000000), 3-in-1 Oil, and Paste Wax. You should also get a clean cotton cloth to use for the wax application.

Steps for removing stains from your nickel-plated radiator include as follows:

1. A solution of warm water and dish washing liquid should be mixed together in a bucket.

2. Then, a sponge or household scouring pad can be used to wash the solution over the nickel. If necessary, scrub but scrub gently while using a moderate amount of force.

3. After the scrubbing stages are complete, rinse that area with clean water. Then, dry the newly-treated area with a clean towel to help retain the shine obtained during the cleaning steps.

Here are some additional steps to apply when necessary:

4. If the stain is still present, you can scrub it with a steel wool pad dipped in the 3-in-1 oil. Remember to keep the wool pad moistened with the oil or you could scratch the metal surface.

5. Any residue that is left behind you should clean off with a cloth. You can also further protect the surface from damage by applying a coat of wax. This wax solution is best applied with a clean cotton cloth.

More Advice

When using certain cleaning products you are advised to follow all instructions exactly as they are presented to you. If you alter the direction in any way you could increase risk of damage to your automobile radiator.

Keep in mind also that acid or alkaline-based cleaners are not recommended. This is yet another risk factor as far as causing damage to your radiator. Therefore, never use them at all if you want to prolong the life of your most attractive and valuable engine parts, especially if you own a collector’s vehicle.

If your nickel-plated radiator is greasy or oily you could also use mineral spirits to clean and shine it. There is also home nickel-plating bath kits available and these kits are less expensive than having your prized vehicle and/or radiator cleaned professionally.

On the other hand, having your nickel-plated radiator cleaned professionally would be worth it if you have the money. However, if your main hobby is keeping your car updated then you may just want to do it yourself using the right tips and pointers along the way.

How to Clean Motorcycle Wheel Spokes

When those shiny chrome motorcyle wheel spokes become dirty they appear very unattractive and dull. Thus, finding the right way to make them shine again without damaging your chrome (or aluminum, or other metal) is of high importance.

Supplies Needed:

You need the appropriate metal cleaner. For instance, if your motorcycle wheel spokes are chrome you need a chrome cleaner. If they are aluminum you need an aluminum cleaner.

You also need a baby bottle brush, soft cloths, bucket, old sheet, and water. Then, you need the right guidance.

The steps to cleaning your motorcycle wheel spokes are as shown below:

1. Fill a bucket with warm water. Then, if the cleaning product label instructions say to add the cleaning solution to the water do so.
2. Otherwise, do exactly as the product manufacturer states in the instructions, even if it means just spraying the substance right out of the can, or perhaps a spray bottle after mixing it with some water.
3. Dip the baby bottle brush in the water mixture, or spray the cleaning solution onto the brush. (Remember the product label’s instructions of the solution you use to clean your motorcycle spokes supercedes the directions shown here.)
4.  Use the moistened baby bottle brush to scrub any hard-to-reach areas of your motorcyle rims. The baby bottle brush is perfect for this job because the bristles of the brush fit right in between the spokes.
5.  When you are done cleaning the spokes, rinse them off thoroughly with water. If necessary repeate the above steps with the hopes that your motorcycle spokes will be clean after a second round.
6. Make sure you dry the spokes immediately after rinsing. This will prevent water spotting or streaking. This is also the best way to ensure proper shine of your bike wheel’s metal parts.
7. Note: You should just wipe the metal of your wheel spokes dry with just the cleaner and no water if the product instructions say so. Never use water if the label or instructions provided with a metal polisher/cleaner say not do  so.

Also, you are advised to test the metal cleaner before you use it in a place that is noticeable. Maybe you can even try it out on an old motorcycle rim or even an old bicycle tire.

Alternative Method

You could follow the procedure above until you get to the part about dipping the baby brush into the metal cleaning solution. You could instead douse strips of an old sheet into the solution and/or the water.

You can use these strips to wipe between the spokes as you would the bottle brush. The effect is similar. However, if you do not want to do this yourself, you could always take your motorcyle into a shop and have it cleaned professionally.

This will save you from committing serious damage to your bike. Of course, paying someone to clean your bike spokes costs you more money. Therefore, consider whether or not it is necessary to pay for this service before you bring your motorcycle in.

How to Clean a Convertible Roof

Convertibles are often one of the most coveted kinds of cars, especially if it is a collectable car. However, keeping the convertable roof clean is highly necessary if you want to preserve the value of your vehicle. Keeping it clean also helps you ride around with more style.

Introductory Advice

One of the keys to successful convertable roof cleaning is using the right cleaning solutions. The substances or agents used during this cleaning process should be both safe and effective.

Depending on how old your vehicle is, you may get recommendations from your car dealer. However, if you purchased your car from a private party you may need to do some research on your own. Otherwise, you can just see below what supplies are needed for further info.

Supplies Needed
For this project these items are recommended: Renovo Soft Top Canvas Cleaner, sponge, soft-bristled brush, water, and soft cloths.

Steps to cleaning stains off your convertible cover are shown below:

1. Remove the loose dust, dirt, or debris. You can even use a dry cloth or even a damp cloth covered with water for this purpose. This is just a prelimary cleaning step that is necessary to help prevent mud and caking while removing the dirt. A garden hose might even help if the top is closed tightly.
2. Shake the cleaning solution bottle well. Then, apply a thin layer of it with a sponge and use a soft brush to scrub with. You could also use a sponge or cloth to gently rub the cleaner into the canvas.
3. If you want to clean tough stains, you should let the cleaner sit on the stain for up to 30 minutes. Then, whip off the cleaner with a soft cloth. As far as cleaning the exterior, this can be done with a hose.
4. Wipe the area you just cleaned again with a clean, damp cloth. A rag dipped in just water will help wipe away the remaining solution residue. Then, you should let the convertible cover try completely.

More Advice

Never let the cleaner dry on the surface and if you want to further protect your convertible top apply the right kind of protective sealant. Usually the sealants are made for specific convertible top materials, and you should use the one that is most appropriate for your car top. .

You should also follow these additional tips for adding the protective coating:

• Test the protective product or cleaning solutions on a small, hidden portion of the convertible. This will ensure less possibility of damage even if the substances are intended for use on your particular car cover.
• It should not be applied until after the cleaning steps are complete.
• Using the cleaner for scrubbing your convertible top only on the immediate area. Allowing the solution to spread to other fabrics could ruin them.
• Never use a bleach-based product as it could weaken the convertible stiching.
• Always follow the vehicle owner’s manual maintenance as well as cleaning product car instructions. This will ensure less chance of damage.

How to Clean Driveways

Cleaning your driveway off is not hard. Usually all you need to do is spray it with a garden hose.

However, sometimes removing the stains is a bit more challenging and requires a few more steps than just the rinsing off your driveway with a hose. The tips you see here are for removing stains often found on concrete or brick driveways.

Cleaning Concrete and Brick Driveways

The most common kinds of stains that occur on your driveway is oil, gas, grease, or antifreeze. For the oil and antifreeze stains you can place dried, clean kitty litter on the stain and let it sit.

Sometimes all it takes is a few minutes to a couple of hours for the dried kitty litter to soak up the liquid. However, for best results you may want to keep the kitty litter sitting on the automobile fluid for at least 24 hours, or even for up to two days.

Then, you can take a shovel and scoop up the oil or fluid-drenched substance and properly dispose of it. This method does work quite well but keep in mind it works best on stains that are still fresh.

Introductory Safety Advice

Regardless of cleaning methods or products used for cleaning your driveway, you are advised to put on gloves and goggles. You are also advised to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants that do not expose your skin in order to provide yourself with maximum protection.

You can use the kitty litter method described earlier, or you can try removal of dried-on fluid stains from concrete or brick driveways using these steps:

1. Apply powdered laundry detergent on the stain full strength. All you need to do is pour a generous enough of an amount that it will help remove the stained area.

 

1. Scrub the area with a stiff, wet broom. An alternative scrubbing device to use would be a large bristle brush, preferably one on a broom handle.
2. After you have scrubbed, rinse off the area, and let it dry. Then, if necessary repeat the laundry detergent application and scrubbing steps.
3. If the above methods do not work see one of the “alternative methods” below for more ideas on how to clean fluid stains off concrete or brick.

Alternative Methods (for Concrete and Brick)

You can either use the above steps and use trisodium phosphate instead of the laundry soap, or you can try a commercial product. The commercial product should be prepared and/or used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

You could also use the basic concrete or driveway cleaning steps previously explained above but instead apply benzene to the stains. However, keep in mind this substance is highly flammable and could easier start on fire, so have a fire extinguisher handy.

Otherwise, you could prepare a paste made from 1 part sodium citrate, 6 parts, water, 6 parts glycerine, and you can add to this whiting.

Sprinkle this on the stain and allow it to stand and add new paste when it dries. Then, let it sit for a week and flush it with water after you brush the dry paste away. If necessary, repeat this entire procedure.

Additional Removal Guides

This is a very short summary of removal tips for other substances you may need to remove from your concrete or brick driveway. These tips are categorized by the name of the substance that caused the stain:

• Rust stains-Wet the area with a garden hose and sprayer. Then, sprinkle some oxalic acid on it. (This substance is found at hardware stores.) Set your sprayer to “mist” and then use it to apply more water on top of the powdery mixture and allow this to sit, and then scrub. You can then rinse. Repeat the above steps as many times as necessary until stain is gone.
• Dirt, mold, mildew, bird droppings-You can blast off the stains with a power washer or a hose and spray spout. Then, scrub while applying mild soap or commercial product meant for killing these substances.
• Tire marks-Use an aerosol can of automotive spray cleaner. Keep spraying until the marks disappear. You can rinse the area with a water hose and sprayer afterward.

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