Will a steam clean mess with the plastic on the dash?

Steam and a Prius dash is not likely to work out well.

 

Well other than the melting part, steam is at least 212 degrees, and I would think the plastic mght have an objecton!!

 

Are you for real?

The Prius is a computer with a car attached. I don't think it wise to introduce large amounts of steam to it. There are many other ways of cleaning the interior, but steam isn't one of them.

 

Since 'Dog Droole' is not toxic, and it requires no solvents to remove, I would suggest mild but effective cleaning solutions. No harsh chemicals that could damage the plastic , and use them with great finesse. Think Q-Tips, Paper towels wrapped around things to insert into cracks and crevices. If laundry detergents can remove the stuff from clothes a mild solution of warm water and Tide will probably clean the dash also. A soft brush for urregular uneven surfaces then a wet towel to rinse, and a dry towel to dry. TIME and EFFORT is what it will take to return the car to pre-Dog condition, not extreme heat or chemicals.
ask araes not in need of cleaning, and tape up all places that moisture should not enter. Then chaulk the experience up to needed education for Dog Owning Prius Drivers.

 

I'd agree with New Yorker: use elbow grease as much as you can. Toothbrushes are also a great tool for crevice cleaning. But, be sure to use microfiber on your display screens...

 

Consider something like this. http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/car+care/interior+detailing/interior+cleaner,+35+ounces.do

 

I'm not sure it would work on hard plastic, but I've used Woolite's "pet stain remover with oxygen" on carpets and upholstery, and it works very well. You can find it anywhere. It's a spray, so maybe try spraying it on a cloth, then applying to the affected area.

Also, I once saw a segment on "Dirty Jobs" about a company that cleans up vehicles after serious accidents. If worse comes to worse, consult the pros!

Good luck!

 

Hey there - since it's under warranty each dealership has a partner detailing shop - so i suggest you call them to help with the cleaning of the dash. When I went to pick up my new Prius - it looked like there was a water stain on the dash so they drove it over to the detailing shop and they used a vinyl cleaner i believe. that way they help fix it. Also re: the dog - I too have a large dog 80 lbs and that was my first concern when looking at the prius. the salesperson told me that a client of hers pulls out the trunk top and then you have that deeper space which gives the dog about another 6" or so of head room. you could put a blanket down in the back and covering the tops of the backseat in case he/she drools over them.
goodluck! liz

 

I agree that you could ask your dealer to help you clean the dash.

Or if you still want to DIY, you could remove the dashboard plastic so that you can clean it more thoroughly outside the car. However this will not be easy to do. You'll need to disconnect the 12V battery first, and may have to deal with the passenger-side airbag in the dash.

Consult techinfo.toyota.com for repair manual info.

 

Enjoy your dog. We lost two dogs about two years ago to sudden illnesses and I promise you that every time we come across a drool stain we almost lose it! We now have a new dog and as much as we love him, you never forget them.