Classic cars should be looked on as a modern-day work of art.  Anyone who has ever restored a classic or laid out a lot of hard-earned cash to  either fully restore  a  UK or European car from the Fifties or Sixties  or acquire one that has already been restored will obviously take a lot of pride in their vehicle. The upholstery in a restored classic car will be the first to show signs of wear and tear, with the signs beginning to show dependant on how often it is being used.

Classic cars that are kept in storage or on permanent dispaly will obviously take a long time if any to show depreciation in their upholstery. Another factor that will play a major part will be the material used in the upholstery.

As well as maintaining the seating in a classic car an additional repsonsibility is preventing the headliner to becoming discoulered, genrally caused by the driver and/or passenger smoking in the car.

While each material has its own demands and requires specialist skills and knowledge to keep it in premium conditiom, In general, having access to a steam cleaner is a considerable advantage in general and especially for cleaning all forms of upholstered surfaces.  

A steam cleaner operates through using high-pressure steam to clean and sanitize surfaces. The steam is generated by heating water to a high temperature, and then forcing it through a nozzle. The heat and pressure of the steam help to loosen dirt and grime, making it easy to wipe away.

When using a steam cleaner on the interior of a classic car, the first stage is you to vacuum the upholstery to remove any loose dirt and debris.

After vacuuming, utilise the power of the steam cleaner, to clean the seats and other fabric or leather surfaces by directing the steam onto the surface and scrubbing gently with a brush or cloth. The heat and pressure of the steam will help to loosen dirt and stains, making them easier to remove.

It's important to be careful when using a steam cleaner in a classic car, as the heat and pressure of the steam can cause damage to delicate materials. It's a good idea to test the steam cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire car.  Pay extra attention to avoid any areas that are prone to get too hot such as the dashboard and gauges.

To maintain the quality of leather seats and trim, it is recommended to use high-quality leather conditioners as a part of regular maintenance routine. To avoid the risk of drying, cracking, or discoloration, it is advisable to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer while applying the conditioner. It is recommended to use cleaners and protectants that are specifically designed for vinyl or fabric upholstery to ensure proper maintenance and care of these materials.

If the car is being kept in storage, to safeguard it from dust and debris, it is advisable to use a car cover that is breathable. This type of cover allows air to circulate, preventing moisture buildup that can damage the car.

Never forget that every classic car is unique, especially after restoration, it  has its own set of maintenance needs that may differ from other vehicles.