Chemical Guys Total Interior Reviews: Is It Worth It?

When it comes to maintaining the perfect look and feel of your car’s interior, the search for the right cleaning product can be a bit overwhelming. But let me save you some time—if you’re serious about preserving that “just rolled off the lot” look, then you need to consider Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner & Protectant.

I know firsthand how difficult it can be to find a product that checks all the boxes, but after using Total Interior Cleaner for a while, I can confidently say that this product has become my go-to.

Let me explain why you should buy it and how it can make your car detailing routine so much simpler.

My Experience With Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner

I’ve been a car detailing enthusiast for years, trying all sorts of products that claim to be the best. Some of them work great, and others—not so much.

But when I first got my hands on Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner, I felt like I’d found something special.

Unlike most products, this one truly does it all. Whether it’s leather, vinyl, plastic, carpet, or even glass, this cleaner handles it without a problem.

When I first tried it, I was skeptical.

Like many of us, I had a trunk full of separate products for different surfaces—leather conditioners, dashboard cleaners, glass wipes, and more.

But this cleaner promised to replace them all. One cleaner to rule them all, so to speak.

And guess what? It delivered.

How To Use Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner?

Using Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner is refreshingly simple. All you need to do is mist it onto the surface you want to clean and then wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. That’s it. No scrubbing, no complicated application process. Just spray and wipe.

The cleaner leaves surfaces looking fresh and feeling clean without that annoying sticky residue that some cleaners tend to leave behind.

It works particularly well on dashboards, door panels, and seats—especially for those of us with kids or pets who seem to constantly make a mess in the car. One of my favorite things about this cleaner is how it handles touch screens and navigation displays.

These areas are often tricky because you don’t want to damage sensitive surfaces. But with Total Interior, it’s safe to use and leaves no smudges or streaks.

Pros of Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner

Let’s start with the pros:

1. Multi-surface capabilities: You no longer need separate cleaners for each material inside your car. This cleaner works on almost everything, including leather, fabric, plastic, and even glass.
2. Ease of use: Spray, wipe, done. It’s that simple. You don’t need to worry about mixing, diluting, or rinsing.
3. No sticky residue: One of the things that frustrates me most about other cleaners is that they often leave behind a greasy or sticky feel. Not with this one. Everything feels dry and smooth to the touch afterward.
4. UV protection: The added UV blockers are a major bonus. They help shield your interior surfaces from sun damage, preventing cracking, fading, and other long-term damage.
5. Smell: It’s not overpowering or chemical-smelling. The scent is fresh and clean, but it won’t linger for too long, which I appreciate.
6. Safe on touchscreens: If you’ve ever been frustrated by streaks on your infotainment system, this cleaner fixes that issue with minimal effort. It’s safe on screens, which many products can’t claim.

Cons of Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner

As great as this product is, there are a few cons to be aware of:

1. Glass cleaning: While it works decently on glass, if you’re picky like me, you might find that dedicated glass cleaners like Invisible Glass work better for streak-free shine. On interior windows, Total Interior gets the job done, but I still use a separate cleaner for exterior glass or when I want a pristine result.
2. Timing matters: If you spray the cleaner and let it sit too long before wiping, it can sometimes leave streaks or light stain marks. It’s nothing that can’t be fixed with a second wipe, but it’s something to be mindful of.
3. Not perfect for all leathers: While this cleaner works on leather, I find that it’s not quite as effective as dedicated leather conditioners. For deeper cleaning and conditioning, I still turn to Chemical Guys’ specific leather products. If leather care is your top priority, you might want to follow up with a conditioner afterward.

How To Get The Most Out Of Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner?

If you want to maximize the benefits of this cleaner, here are a few tips:

• Pre-moisten your cloth: Lightly spray your microfiber cloth with distilled water before applying the cleaner. This helps the product spread more evenly and makes wiping more efficient.
• Avoid spraying directly onto sensitive areas: For touchscreens, control buttons, and speaker grilles, spray the cleaner onto your cloth rather than directly onto the surface. This avoids any potential oversaturation that might damage delicate electronics.
• Use the right cloth: After applying the cleaner, use a pile-free microfiber cloth to quickly buff the area. This prevents static and ensures a smooth, streak-free finish.
• Regular maintenance: Consistent use is key. If you want to prevent sun damage and keep your interior looking pristine, use the cleaner every few weeks, especially on surfaces that get a lot of sun exposure.

Comparison With Other Brands

If you’re like me, you’ve probably tried other brands like Armor All or Meguiar’s. Each has its strengths, but for me, Chemical Guys comes out on top for several reasons.

1. Armor All: Known for its affordability and wide availability, Armor All has been a go-to for many car owners for decades. However, one of the common complaints about Armor All is that it leaves a greasy, overly shiny residue that can attract dust. In contrast, Chemical Guys Total Interior leaves a more natural, matte finish, which I prefer. Also, Armor All’s scent can be a bit overpowering, whereas Total Interior has a subtler, more pleasant smell.
2. Meguiar’s Quik Interior Detailer: This is another popular product, and I’ve used it in the past. It’s effective, but I found that Meguiar’s doesn’t offer the same versatility. While it’s great for dashboards and plastic surfaces, it’s not as effective on leather or fabric. Chemical Guys Total Interior is a true all-in-one, making it more convenient for full interior cleaning.
3. 303 Aerospace Protectant: While 303 is excellent for UV protection and works well on plastic and vinyl, it doesn’t have the same versatility for cleaning multiple surfaces. You’d still need separate products for leather or fabric. Total Interior, on the other hand, can handle it all in one step.

Maintenance Tips For Longevity

To get the most out of Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner and keep your car looking as fresh as the day you bought it, follow these maintenance tips:

• Frequent cleanings: Regular, light cleanings are better than letting dirt and grime build up. Use the cleaner every couple of weeks to keep things fresh.
• Avoid excess moisture: Don’t oversaturate your cloth or surfaces, especially when cleaning touchscreens or electronics. A light mist is all you need.
• Store properly: Keep the product in a cool, dry place when not in use. Extreme heat can degrade the effectiveness of the cleaner.
• Pair with other products: While Total Interior is a great all-in-one solution, sometimes it’s worth using specialized products for certain tasks. For instance, pair it with Chemical Guys Leather Conditioner for an added layer of protection on leather seats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Wrapping Up

If you’re looking for a one-step solution that simplifies your car detailing routine, Chemical Guys Total Interior Cleaner & Protectant is the way to go. It saves time, money, and effort while keeping your car looking pristine.

With its ability to clean almost every surface inside your vehicle, from leather seats to glass touchscreens, it’s truly a game-changer. Ready to give it a try? Your car—and your wallet—will thank you.