How to Clean a Sticky Steering Wheel | 10 DIY Steps with Images

How to Clean a Sticky Steering Wheel

Sweat and gunk that has not been wiped from your hands for an extended time can also cause stickiness on the steering wheels. Again, this problem can begin when you are in the car with your children. To avoid this, please keep your hands clean by washing them before driving. In extreme circumstances, the steering wheels become sticky due to insufficient cleaning solutions; they may have been cleaned for a long time. Steering wheels are made of leather, steel, wood, and plastic. It is important to remember that these are always exposed to the sun’s rays. This can cause it to become dry and crack over time. Let’s learn how to clean a sticky steering wheel.

Driving with one’s hands firmly gripped the steering wheel is distracting and irritating. As a result, you should thoroughly clean your steering wheel to keep it clean, or you can seek professional assistance by driving your vehicle to a car washing center.

  • Gather the necessary cleaning supplies
  • Clean off dust and dirt from the steering wheel
  • Prepare the cleaning solution
  • Apply the cleaning solution to the steering wheel
  • Scrub the steering wheel with a brush
  • Rinse the steering wheel
  • Dry the steering wheel with a microfiber cloth
  • Apply conditioning products to the steering wheel
  • Inspect the steering wheel for any remaining dirt or grime
  • At last, finish your work perfectly

How to Clean a Sticky Steering Wheel

Gather the necessary cleaning supplies.

Before starting the cleaning process, gather all necessary cleaning supplies, such as a 

Gather the necessary cleaning supplies.
  • cleaning solution.
  • A brush.
  • A microfiber cloth ensures thorough cleaning.

Clean off dust and dirt from the steering wheel.

Clean off dust and dirt from the steering wheel.

Clean off any visible dust and dirt from the steering wheel using a dry cloth or brush to avoid scratching the surface during cleaning.

Prepare the cleaning solution.

Prepare the cleaning solution.

Prepare the cleaning solution by following the instructions on the product label and dilute it as necessary.

Apply the cleaning solution to the steering wheel.

Apply the cleaning solution to the steering wheel.

Apply the cleaning solution to the steering wheel and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the solution to break down any dirt and grime.

A leather steering wheel can add a touch of luxury to your vehicle’s interior, but it also requires regular maintenance. Using a leather cleaner and protectant designed explicitly for your steering wheel can help remove sticky residue and prevent sun damage, fading, and cracking. Read the label carefully and follow the instructions for the best results. Remember not to use too much product, as it can leave behind a greasy residue that is difficult to remove.

Plastic steering wheel

Plastic steering wheel

Cleaning a plastic steering wheel is relatively easy, but you must be careful. Use a mild all-purpose cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the wheel, paying special attention to the logo and buttons. Avoid getting cleaner on the dashboard or center console, as it can cause damage.

If the steering wheel is particularly dirty, you may need to repeat the process a few times or use a stronger cleaner, but test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Metal steering wheel

Metal steering wheel

Metal steering wheels are uncommon but can be found on vintage or high-end vehicles. 

  • To clean a metal steering wheel, use a damp microfiber cloth to remove dirt or grime. 
  • Dry the wheel with a clean cloth and then use a metal polish to restore its shine. 
  • Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use a gentle touch, as you don’t want to scratch the surface of the wheel.

Wooden steering wheel

Wooden steering wheel

Wooden steering wheels are rare and typically found in classic and vintage vehicles. These wheels are crafted from various kinds of wood, such as maple, mahogany, and walnut. However, cleaning a wooden steering wheel requires caution as using too much of any solution is not recommended, as it can damage the wood.

Gentle cleaning with a damp microfiber towel is the best way to clean a wooden steering wheel. Additionally, applying a protective wax or oil can help maintain the natural beauty of the wood.

Scrub the steering wheel with a brush.

Scrub the steering wheel with a brush.

Scrub the steering wheel with a soft-bristled brush, focusing on areas with heavy grime buildup.

Rinse the steering wheel.

Rinse the steering wheel.

Rinse the steering wheel with water and remove all traces of the cleaning solution.

Dry the steering wheel with a microfiber cloth.

Dry the steering wheel with a microfiber cloth.

Dry the steering wheel thoroughly using a microfiber cloth to prevent any water spots or damage to the surface.

Apply conditioning products to the steering wheel.

Apply conditioning products to the steering wheel.

Apply conditioning products such as leather conditioners or protectants to the steering wheel to help prevent cracking and fading.

Inspect the steering wheel for any remaining dirt or grime.

Inspect the steering wheel for any remaining dirt or grime.

Inspect the steering wheel for any remaining dirt or grime and repeat the cleaning process as necessary.

At last, finish your work perfectly.

At last, finish your work perfectly

Finally, ensure the cleaning process is complete, and the steering wheel is free from dirt, grime, and any cleaning residue.

Conclusion

Because the driver’s hands are on the steering wheel more than any other vehicle element, the car’s interior is guaranteed to be dirtier.

Cleaning regularly will keep dirt and grime from accumulating on this vital component, preventing it from becoming stuck. But, a complete cleaning of the steering wheel is sometimes required, which may be accomplished in a few simple steps. Drive carefully!