1. Wash the running boards when you wash the rest of the vehicle. Rinse off the running boards with water from a hose.
2. Wipe down the running boards with a rag and a mild automotive soap. Use a small detailing brush soaked in the soapy water to clean the edges where the rubber grip pads meet the aluminum.
3. Rinse the soap and water off the running boards. Dry the boards with a lint-free rag. Spray an aluminum cleaner onto the entire surface of the running boards. Wipe the cleaner off with a clean, dry lint-free rag.
4. Clean and treat any rubber areas on the running board with rubber and vinyl protectant. Use a rag to wipe the protectant onto the rubber parts. Wipe the entire surface of the running boards one last time with a clean rag.