We all want our classic car to look its best, but that can get expensive. Not to mention the fact that many store-bought cleaners have chemicals that may be harmful to you, the environment, and sometimes even to the car they’re supposed to preserve. Here are a few eco-friendly and inexpensive ideas to help keep your treasure looking (and smelling) good.

1.  Window cleaner: mix together equal parts of white vinegar and water. Spray the solution on your windows and wipe off with either paper towels or old newspaper. Newspaper actually works great because it won’t leave lint behind that a lot of the cheaper paper towels will.

2.  Interior shine: instead of Armor All, get some plain baby oil. Put a little on a lint free cloth and wipe down the interior. Two important notes… never apply baby oil directly to the vinyl, and never use it on the steering wheel, as the oil will make your wheel slippery. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean dry cloth.

3.  Tires: the safest, least expensive tire shine? Vegetable oil. Pour some in a bowl, soak it up with an old rag and wipe down your tires.

4.  Air fresheners: there are a few options for making your car smell good. You might take a bar of soap out of its wrapper, then wrap it in a thin piece of fabric, and place it in your console or under your seat. When the scent is gone, shave off the outside of the bar and it’s as good as new. Another option is to put several drops of oil essentials on a piece of felt and stash it in an inconspicuous place. That said, dryer sheets are my favorite. Not only do they smell good, but they can deter mice if you put your car in storage!

These are just a few ideas for keeping your classic looking good when you’re on a budget. Got any tips of your own? We’d love to hear them!