How do I wash my car correctly?
Are you trying to keep your car as clean as possible with the least amount of effort and fatigue?
Washing your car can protect its exterior, reduce the chance of corrosion over time, and make it look great if done correctly. However, if washed incorrectly, it can scratch the glass and paint, as well as leave water spots everywhere.
Check out these five car wash tips to get the most out of your car wash, avoiding the most common problems.
-
You must choose the right soap:
Using dish soap for cleaning power is one of the most frequently repeated old-school car wash tips, but it can also be the worst advice.
While dish soap is great for dishes because it is designed to clean grease, harsh chemicals and detergents will remove the wax from your car and damage its paint.
Always use soap that is specifically made for cars, unless you are intentionally removing wax in order to reapply a fresh coat.
-
Avoid dropping your belongings on the floor :
Did you drop the washing glove or dry cloth?
If you do this, move on and walk away.
Well, maybe this isn't the last time, but definitely don't pick things up again after they've touched the ground, as the tiny particles of dirt you've picked up mean they're susceptible to scratching if you use them before washing them thoroughly.
For this reason, it is helpful to keep extra towels and gloves on hand in case the others fall off during washing.
-
You should use the washing bucket with caution:
You will need to rinse the glove between each wash in the bucket to remove the soap suds and any remaining dirt that you just removed from your car.
Ideally, you should have two buckets ready - one to rinse your gloves and another to use for cleaning your car.
This is one of the best ways to ensure that you don't accidentally scratch the paint while washing your car.
-
Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight:
Most professionals advise against washing your car on a bright, sunny day, as it should remain damp until it's properly dry. If the metal is hot, the water and soap will dry quickly in the sun, leaving streaks on the paint and glass.
Keeping the car slightly damp, parking it in a shaded area, or washing it in the early evening will prevent stains from forming. Also, don't forget to rinse the car with a light spray instead of blasting the water hose directly onto it.
-
You should use a microfiber drying towel:
Simply put, household towels made of cotton or polyester are too abrasive and cannot be safely used on your car's paint, while a microfiber drying towel is softer and more absorbent, protecting your car's body and drying faster.