Quick answer
Spray a non-toxic interior cleaner onto a microfiber towel, not directly onto Tesla or Rivian surfaces, then wipe in one direction and buff dry. Work panel by panel, starting with the least dirty areas and finishing with seats and floor-contact trim. For a ready-made option, Auto Interior Cleaner is designed for interior surfaces and fabrics, is non-toxic and biodegradable, and is made in the USA.
Why Tesla and Rivian cabins need a different cleaning routine
Tesla and Rivian interiors mix large glass displays, matte plastics, vegan leather, and fabric panels in tight spaces. Harsh all-purpose cleaners or paper towels can leave lint, streaks, or a chemical smell that lingers in a closed cabin. A dedicated interior detailing spray used with clean microfiber towels keeps those surfaces looking even and avoids the residue that attracts dust. Because these cabins have fewer traditional buttons and more screen area, most of your cleaning time goes to the touchscreen, the dash, and the seat bolsters where hands and clothing rub most often.
What to have ready before you start
Gather two or three clean microfiber towels, a soft detailing brush for vents and seams, and your interior cleaner. If you use a concentrate or gallon size, dilute only according to the product label. Keep a separate towel for the touchscreen so you do not transfer dashboard dust onto the glass. Work out of direct sun and with the cabin cool, because cleaner evaporates faster on hot surfaces and can dry before you wipe it, which is a common cause of streaking.
How to clean Tesla vegan leather and Rivian seat surfaces
Spray the cleaner onto your microfiber towel until it is damp, not soaked. Wipe seats in overlapping passes, then use a second dry towel to remove any remaining moisture. Pay attention to seams, perforations, and the side bolsters, where body oils collect. For sticky spots, let the damp towel sit on the area for a few seconds rather than scrubbing hard. Avoid soaking perforated seats, because excess liquid can sit in the holes and wick into the cushion.
Touchscreen, dash, and trim: order matters
Clean the dash and trim first, then the touchscreen last so you do not redeposit dust on glass you just wiped. Use a towel lightly dampened with cleaner on the dash, and a separate clean towel for the screen. If your screen already has a tempered glass protector, treat it like glass and avoid abrasive pads. Finish by opening the doors for a few minutes to let the cabin air out, especially if you are sensitive to scents.
Step-by-step: cleaning your Tesla or Rivian interior
- 1. Clear loose debris first: Remove floor mats, wrappers, and loose items, then vacuum or brush out crumbs from seats and crevices before any liquid touches the surface. Skipping this step turns dust into mud when you spray, which is the most common cause of streaks.
- 2. Test the cleaner on a hidden area: Spray a small amount onto a microfiber towel and wipe an inconspicuous spot, such as under the seat or on a lower door panel, then check for discoloration after it dries. If the finish looks unchanged, continue; if not, stop and use a milder approach.
- 3. Clean the dash and trim: Mist the cleaner onto a microfiber towel, not the surface, and wipe matte plastics and trim in one direction. Use a soft brush for vents and seams. Checkpoint: the surface should look even, not wet or glossy.
- 4. Wipe seats and vegan leather: Use a damp towel on seats, working in sections and paying attention to bolsters and seams. Follow with a dry towel to remove moisture. Do not soak perforated seats; excess liquid can seep into the cushion.
- 5. Finish with the touchscreen: Use a separate clean microfiber towel lightly dampened with cleaner, wipe the screen in one direction, then buff with a dry towel. Checkpoint: no lint, streaks, or smudges remain when the screen is off.
- 6. Air out and inspect: Leave doors open for a few minutes to let the cabin ventilate, then check the seats and dash under different light angles for missed spots. Next step: keep a dedicated towel and cleaner in the car for quick touch-ups.
Product facts
- Auto Interior Cleaner: Auto Interior Cleaner removes grease, oil, dust, and dirt from interior surfaces and fabrics, and is non-toxic and biodegradable. You can use one spray across seats, dash, and trim without worrying about harsh residue or a chemical smell left behind in a closed cabin.
