- Detailing cleans and reconditions interior and exterior, beyond a traditional car wash.
- Full interior detailing lasts 4–8 hours and costs 200–800 RON.
- Steps include seats, under-seat area, dashboard, doors, and headliner.
- Specialized products for leather and plastic prevent damage and restore shine.
A car is a significant investment that requires constant care to preserve its value and functionality. No matter how careful you are with your vehicle, days behind the wheel, long trips, and daily use inevitably lead to impurities accumulating in the cabin. When the upholstery or interior surfaces get dirty, swift intervention is crucial - the faster you act, the higher the chances of restoring the original look.
Detailing is the professional solution for meticulous interior cleaning, far surpassing the capabilities of a classic car wash.
What is auto detailing
Auto detailing is a complex process of cleaning and reconditioning the interior and exterior of a vehicle, aimed at restoring its original appearance or even improving it. Unlike a traditional car wash, where the interior is superficially vacuumed, detailing involves a methodical and thorough approach to every element.
Detailing specialists use professional equipment and specialized chemical products to remove impurities from the hardest-to-reach places, including:
- Cracks and corners where dirt accumulates
- Sticky stains on plastic components
- Stains on upholstery and seat fabrics
- Dust and debris buildup in the vehicle ventilation system
Differences from a traditional car wash
Traditional car wash
- Quick vacuuming of carpets and seats
- General wipe-down of the dashboard
- Duration: 15-30 minutes for interior
- Lower costs: 20-50 RON
Professional detailing
- Detailed cleaning of each element
- Use of specialized equipment (wet-dry vacuums, steam machines)
- Chemicals tailored to each surface
- Duration: 4-8 hours for full interior
- Investment: 200-800 RON depending on complexity
Interior detailing process
Initial assessment
The specialist thoroughly inspects the interior to identify dirt types and choose appropriate chemicals. This step is crucial for the final result.
Cleaning the seats
The upholstery is treated with wet-dry vacuums and special cleaners adapted to the material (leather, textile, alcantara). Persistent stains and unpleasant odors are removed.
Area under the seats
This area, often neglected, can accumulate substantial amounts of dirt, hair, food remnants and dust. Cleaning this zone prevents the growth of bacteria and mold.
Dashboard and center console
Plastic, wood, or carbon fiber elements are cleaned with specific products that do not damage the surface and restore their original shine.
Doors and seals
The pockets, handles, speakers, and rubber seals are cleaned—areas where dirt accumulates and which influence the cabin air quality.
Headliner
If necessary, the headlining fabric is cleaned, removing nicotine traces, odors or stains.
The importance of specialized products
An essential aspect of professional detailing is using detergents and chemicals tailored to each surface:
- For leather: products that do not dry out or crack the material
- For plastic: solutions that leave no residues and restore color
- For textile: detergents that penetrate fibers and remove stains
- For metal: products that do not corrode and provide protection
Costs of auto detailing in Romania
Basic packages (150-300 RON)
- Full vacuum
- Cleaning of seats and upholstery
- Cleaning of dashboard and console
- Protection for plastic surfaces
Premium packages (300-600 RON)
- Everything included in the basic package
- Steam cleaning
- Leather treatment
- Ozone sanitization
- Headliner cleaning
Complete packages (600-1200 RON)
- Complete interior detailing
- Leather and upholstery reconditioning
- Removal of persistent odors
- Antimicrobial protection
- Warranty on the result
Benefits of auto detailing
For health
- Eliminates bacteria and microbes from the cabin
- Prevents mold growth
- Improves the air quality you breathe
- Reduces allergy risk
For the vehicle
- Maintains resale value
- Extends the life of materials
- Prevents premature wear
- Maintains aesthetic appeal
Frequency recommendations
Specialists recommend a complete interior detailing:
- Once every 12-18 months for normal use
- Once every 6-12 months for intensive use
- After special events (pet transport, spills, etc.)
How to choose the right provider
Before booking a detailing service, check:
- Experience and staff certifications
- Types of equipment used
- Portfolio of previous work
- Customer reviews
- Warranty offered for services
Detailing is an investment in your comfort, health, and the vehicle’s value. Although costs are higher than a traditional wash, the long-term results and benefits justify this expense, especially when performed by qualified professionals.
Photo source: https://www.ratb.ro/