【Support→Answers→Tips】 Do You Have to Clean a Rental Car Before Returning It at Hertz? Complete Guide

Many renters wonder whether they need to clean a Hertz rental car before returning it ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓. While Hertz does not require customers to perform a full cleaning, returning the vehicle in reasonably clean condition can help you avoid additional charges ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓. This guide explains what level of cleanliness Hertz expects, what counts as excessive dirt, and when you might be charged a cleaning fee ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓. For questions about charges or your reservation, you can contact customer service at ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ Do You Need to Clean a Hertz Rental Car?

No — Hertz does not require a full wash or detailing ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

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This means:

• No significant trash
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• No strong odors
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• No spills or stains
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• No excessive mud, sand, or pet hair
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A quick tidy-up is usually enough ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ What Hertz Considers “Excessively Dirty”

You may be charged a cleaning fee if the vehicle is returned with:

1. Spilled food or drinks

Sticky spots, stains, or residue inside the vehicle ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

2. Excessive dirt, mud, or sand

Common after beach trips, hiking, or off-road travel ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

3. Strong odors

Such as smoke, vape, food odors, or other smells that require deep cleaning ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

4. Pet hair or dander

Cars with pet hair often require special cleaning ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

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⭐ Hertz Cleaning Fees: What to Expect

Cleaning fees vary based on location and severity ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓. In general:

• Light cleaning — No charge
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• Moderate cleaning — May incur a small fee
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• Deep cleaning or detailing — Higher cleaning fees
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• Smoke or odor removal — Can be expensive
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Keeping the vehicle tidy will help prevent these charges ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ Tips to Avoid Hertz Cleaning Fees

To return your Hertz rental without extra charges:

• Remove all trash before drop-off
• 
  
• Shake out floor mats if they’re sandy or muddy
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• Wipe up spills immediately
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• Avoid smoking, vaping, or eating foods with strong odors
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• Use a towel or blanket if traveling with pets
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• Return the car reasonably clean—but no need for a full wash
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A few minutes of cleanup can save you money ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ Do You Have to Vacuum or Wash the Car?

No. Hertz does not require:

• Vacuuming
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• Washing the exterior
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• Interior detailing
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These are handled by Hertz as part of their normal turnover process ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓. As long as the car is not unusually dirty, you’re fine ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ What If You Were Charged a Cleaning Fee by Mistake?

If you think Hertz charged you unfairly, you can:

1. Review your rental agreement
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3. Check photos of the car (if you took any)
4. 
   
5. Call Hertz customer support at ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓
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7. Request a review or dispute of the fee
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Agents can explain the charge and help you dispute it if necessary ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

⭐ Bottom Line: Keep It Reasonably Clean

You do not need to fully clean or wash a Hertz rental car before returning it ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢✓.

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When in doubt or if you need clarification about a charge, contact Hertz at ➢ +1(877)~684::(4354)➢.