8 practical and easy-to-do semi-truck interior cleaning tips

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes 

The interior of your truck reflects you as a driver, which is why it pays for you to keep it as tidy as possible. A clean truck is a true sign of a professional. 

Want to keep a cleaner truck but not sure where to start? Here are eight semi-truck interior cleaning tips to get it clean in no time. 

Semi-truck interior cleaning tips 

1. Come up with a cleaning schedule for your truck. 

Cleaning your semi-truck interior can seem like a daunting task if you don't know where to start. Following a cleaning schedule can help you stay on top of keeping your space tidy and prevent dirt and clutter from building up. 

• Focus on simple tasks: Identify quick tasks to be done daily, like taking out the trash. Schedule weekly, monthly and annual times to do deeper cleans.
• Avoid procrastination: Don't let the clutter pile up. It's harder to clean a big mess than to maintain a clean space.
• Stick to the schedule: Use reminders or alarms on your phone to help you stick to a consistent routine.

2. Buy disinfecting wipes. 

Disinfecting wipes are a quick and effective way to clean surfaces and prevent the spread of germs. 

• Choose the right wipes: Multipurpose wipes can clean and disinfect at the same time, saving you time and effort.
• Keep them handy: Store your wipes in an easily accessible place, like in your passenger-side overhead or behind the driver’s seat, so you can quickly deal with spills or messes.
• Wipe down regularly: Regular use of disinfecting wipes can help you keep a clean and healthy environment inside your truck. Aim to wipe down at the end of every day if possible.

3. Keep your work shoes and boots out of your sleeper area. 

Dirt from your work boots can quickly dirty your sleeping area. Keeping your boots out of your sleeper can help keep your living space clean. 

• Use a shoe rack or mat: This will keep your floor clean and free from dirt.
• Clean your boots regularly: This will prevent dirt and grime from accumulating and spreading to other areas.

• Consider having a pair of indoor shoes: Switch to clean, comfortable shoes while in your cab.

4. Get smaller trash bags for everyday use. 

Using small trash bags encourages daily disposal and helps maintain a fresh and clean environment. 

• Empty your trash regularly: Don't wait until the bag is overflowing. Regular disposal prevents odors and keeps your space tidy.
• Use scented bags: These can help mask any unpleasant smells.
• Consider a waterproof trash can: Alternatively, you can skip the bag altogether and purchase a waterproof trash can, one of our must-have accessories for truckers.

5. Invest in storage containers. 

Using storage containers can help you keep your items neatly organized and reduce clutter. 

• Label your containers: This makes it easier to find what you need and return items to their proper place.
• Optimize your space: Use containers that fit well in your available space. See how the experienced drivers do it with our semi-trucking organization guide. 
• Regularly declutter: Look through your items periodically and get rid of anything you no longer need or use.

6. Keep a small vacuum cleaner in your truck. 

If you’re wondering how to clean your semi-truck's floor, a small vacuum cleaner is the way to do it. 

• Invest in a cordless model: One of our best gifts for truckers, A 12-volt, handheld vacuum makes it convenient and easy to maneuver around the truck while vacuuming.
• Take advantage of attachments: Choose a vacuum that comes with various attachments. Different attachments can help you reach tricky spots, like under the seats and behind the pedals.
• Regularly empty and clean the vacuum: This ensures it works effectively and lasts longer.

7. Use floor mats. 

Floor mats are a great investment for keeping your truck's interior clean. They trap dirt, dust and other particles that you might track into your truck. 

• Choose mats that fit: Make sure to purchase floor mats that fit your specific truck make and model.

• Clean them regularly: Shake out the mats outside your truck to remove trapped dirt and dust. For a deeper clean, use a cleaning solution and a brush to refresh the mats.
• Replace when needed: Over time, floor mats can wear out and become less effective at trapping dirt. Replacing them periodically ensures your truck's floor stays clean.

8. Don’t ignore the inside of your windows. 

Dust, fingerprints, and other grime can accumulate on the inside of your windows, reducing visibility and making your truck look dirty. 

• Use the right cleaner: Choose a glass cleaner designed for use on vehicles. These cleaners won't leave streaks or residue on your windows.
• Invest in a microfiber cloth: While paper towel works fine, these cloths are excellent for cleaning glass. They're gentle enough not to scratch your windows but effective at removing dirt and grime.
• Clean your windows regularly: Regular cleaning prevents buildup and keeps your windows clear and clean. Aim to wipe down the inside of your windows at least once a week.