Better than a wet wash cloth? Absolutely.
Written: Jun 26 '03 (Updated Jun 26 '03)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Cleans without fuss.
Cons: Price, Smell, No UV protectant.
The Bottom Line: A great product to have on hand for quick cleanup in your automobile.
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| shoplmart's Full Review: Armor All Cleaning Wipes |
I am a huge fan of the Armor All Wipes collection (as I am with almost any brand of wipes). The wipe configuration seems to make cleaning easier, more effective, and allows me to save tons of time versus using sprays or conventional rubbing products. Prior to using Armor All Cleaning Wipes I had always used just a plain ole damp wash cloth to clean my car's dash, dash fascia, plastic doors, etc. I have been using Armor All Cleaning Wipes for about 3-4 months on both my Geo Storm Wagonback and my Dodge Neon. I have been pleased with the results, though this product certainly does not get past my clutches without some major gripes.
The Product:
Armor All Cleaning Wipes are designed to help the home detailer clean their interior auto surfaces i.e., the dash, vinyl, and fabric with one-step cleaning and without drying or cracking of the surface. Armor All Cleaning Wipes comes in a tube of 25 individual 7"x9" disposable wipes. About four sheets should be enough to clean an entire midsize family car. Armor All claims that these cleaning wipes will remove dust, dirt, and grime. Armor All Cleaning Wipes can be used on all types of dashes, plastic doors, around the center console, etc., etc. This product should not be used on glass or painted surfaces.
My experience:
I use these wipes about once a week to clean my dash before I use Armor All Protectant Wipes. I have used Armor All Cleaning Wipes on almost all areas of my cars. From the dash, center console, seating surfaces, to even the delicate headliners. This product has proved to be effective in removing minor stains and surface dirt from almost all interior surfaces in my car. I have also had good results cleaning my instrument cluster while using this product; something plain water usually does not accomplish. One should note that this product probably could be used for household use, however Armor All indicates that this product should only be used for your automobile.
Armor All Cleaning wipes are a cinch to use. Unlike conventional cleaning sprays, the wipes leave absolutely no streaking on the dash surfaces. Also, thanks to the perfect amount of cleaning solution on each sheet, there is no worrying about dripping or accidentally spilling the product.
An excellent attribute offered from Armor All Cleaning Wipes is the fact that they are so painless to use. Most stains in the fabric or any portion of the interior will come out with ease. Stains such as ink, coffee, blood, etc. in the fabric that have sat for more than one day will probably require a stronger product than Armor All Cleaning Wipes.
Since Armor All cleaning Wipes are so easy to use and so flexible, those who have kids would most likely enjoy this product for quick cleanup of spills on their car's upholstery, carpet, etc. In addition to carrying baby wipes, it also might be a good idea to keep a bottle of Armor All Wipes in your car for whenever accidents do occur. One should note that Armor All Cleaning Wipes should not be used for personal hygiene purposes whatsoever.
Unlike the protectant wipes, Armor All Cleaning Wipes leave little to no shine at all. I have also found that this product leaves no greasy residue after use. This is a definite plus for those who do not want a high gloss glare coming from their dash while driving. On the other hand, if you do like a high gloss but not overly glossy, you can gently go over those ultra shiny areas from certain products with Armor All Cleaning Wipes until the shine you are looking for is achieved.
Some of my gripes about this product include the lack of a UV protectant. Armor All Cleaning wipes do not protect against the sun's UV rays; it would be thoughtful if Armor All would add a sun block in this product that would, at the same time, not leave a nasty residue. My rants on this product also include the horrid smell. If you are going to use this product expect your car to smell like ammonia for at least 30 minutes post application. Last, but certainly not least, my gripes with Armor All Cleaning Wipes is the small amount of lint left behind after using (sometimes). This is only a problem, however, if you use the same cleaning wipe too long. I suggest throwing away the cleaning wipe at the first signs of lint.
Price & Availability:
Armor All Cleaning Wipes can be purchased at almost any large discount store, grocery store, auto part store, etc. for about $4.99. I have, however, seen this product at Costco in the 3 pack for $6.99, and Wal*Mart sells the single pack for $3.99. My best advice is to first buy the single pack. If you like the product then go with the bulk 3 pack.
Final Thoughts:
This product is a great addition to your car cleaning collection (especially if you are on the go). If you have kids, this product also works great cleaning up light stains in the fabric around the car seat, etc. Overall, I have had a good experience with this product; so far Armor All Cleaning Wipes have lived up to its claims.
Note: The bottle does not indicate whether or not the product is toxic, so if you do have kids and use this product on your vehicle's upholstery, I highly suggest you wait until it dries (about 15 minutes).
-Thanks for reading!
Recommended:
Yes
Ease of Application: Excellent; a breeze to apply and shine - lasts forever
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