How to evaluate aircraft cleaning chemicals and equipment

A shopping list is not an approval list

The unpublished Equipment & Chemical Library: Updated 2026 supplied for this project lists tools and products used in a training context. It also directs readers to aircraft manufacturer requirements. We use it as background for planning questions, not as proof that any listed product is suitable for a particular aircraft.

Our recommendation is to separate purchasing decisions from method approval. Owning a polisher, extractor, steam cleaner or coating does not establish that it should be used on the proposed assignment. Likewise, completing a course or obtaining a supplier certificate does not prove every relevant aircraft qualification.

Identify what will be cleaned

Cirrus cautions that ordinary cleaning products can damage its aircraft interiors. [1] Start with the actual surface, finish and installed equipment rather than the broad category aircraft cleaner. Obtain the current applicable manufacturer or operator instructions before choosing a product or method.

Our suggested product review records the exact product name, intended area, documentation consulted and unresolved questions. Avoid substituting a similar-looking bottle without review. Formulations, labels and instructions need to match the product being considered, not a recollection from an earlier job.

Treat avionics as a separate decision

Garmin’s aviation guidance cautions against directly wetting its avionics and highlights cleaner compatibility. [2] It is an example of component-specific guidance, not a universal prescription for every flight deck. The installed equipment and its current instructions are the relevant starting point.

Our recommendation is to exclude uncertain equipment from a general cabin scope until the operator resolves the method. A course note about screen cleaning is useful as a reminder to ask questions, but should never override instructions for the actual display or authorize a person to manipulate aircraft controls.

Review the equipment along with the chemical

FAA corrosion guidance does not recommend steam cleaning for general aircraft use. [3] A steam cleaner appearing in a training equipment list therefore cannot be read as blanket permission to use it on aircraft. Specific materials, procedures and operator requirements still need review.

Our planning checklist also asks about the work area, equipment positioning, power arrangements and access. Those details should be agreed with the responsible site contact. Choose the method for the approved assignment, then confirm the supporting equipment; do not design the job around what happens to be in the van.

Keep the review visible

Ask a provider to explain how it documents product selection and handles a mismatch between a proposed method and aircraft instructions. Our recommendation is a clear escalation process: identify the uncertainty, pause the affected task and obtain the appropriate decision before proceeding. Guessing is not an acceptable substitute for documentation.

VentureWash Aircraft Detailing does not claim that products in the supplied library are owned, approved for your aircraft or evidence of certification. Product and specialty-service decisions remain subject to confirmation. A useful inquiry includes the aircraft, requested surfaces and known restrictions so that the discussion begins with the job rather than a brand recommendation.

Sources & further reading

1. [1] Cirrus Aircraft — How to Clean Your Cirrus Aircraft (2020 guidance) ↗
2. [2] Garmin — Cleaning and Disinfecting Garmin Avionics ↗
3. [3] FAA — AC 43-4B, Corrosion Control for Aircraft ↗

Always use the current instructions applicable to the aircraft and its installed equipment.