Your car is your pride and joy – you want to give it the TLC it needs to shine. A do-it-yourself wash is preferred by many owners, but what they don’t know is their wash routine could be doing more harm than good. For a bright shine that’s safe for your vehicle’s finish, stick to these steps.
Car Washing Do’s
It’s a smart idea to wash your ride weekly. Dirt, salts, tree sap and pollen, bird mess, and dead bugs can all build up on your vehicle, and if left for too long, they can lead to stains or cause damage to the finish.
Only use wash products made for vehicles. Don’t you dare bring out the dish soap or other household cleaners – those are designed specifically for removing dirt and grime from household surfaces, not the delicate exterior of an automobile. Using them can strip your vehicle of its protective wax coating.
Always give your car a complete rinse before starting the wash to remove debris. If this debris isn’t taken off, it could scratch your vehicle as you scrub.
Use separate sets of sponges and buckets when you wash your vehicles. Your wheels accumulate more debris, and washing them with the same equipment as the rest of your car can transfer this refuse to your paint job, leading to an ineffective wash.
Always dry your car – never let it air dry. You can use a squeegee with a rubber blade to remove water while being gentle on your finish, or microfiber towels patted or moved back-and-forth across your car’s exterior.
Do your dirty work in the shade. If you wash your car out in the sun, it’ll dry as you work, creating water spots.
Car Washing Don’ts
Wash gently – don’t use a pressure washer on your vehicle! The high water pressure can worsen paint chips and scratches, damaging your car’s exterior.
Never use brushes with hard bristles, as they can damage the finish. If there are tough spots you can’t remove yourself, take your vehicle for a professional cleaning.
Never apply wax or polish on your vehicle directly, as it can streak your finish. To apply these products, first put them on a cloth, then use that cloth to apply them on the vehicle.
Do not wash or dry in circular motions, or you could leave visible swirls on your vehicle. Move with the car’s curves in straight motions.
Don’t neglect the undercarriage and door jambs, a favorite spot of dirt and grime. Regular washing in these areas can prevent damage and rust.
Don’t be in a hurry. Take the time to do the wash right and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
