A shiny, spotless car isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s a reflection of your care and attention to detail. However, what if your car washing routine is actually doing more harm than good? It’s easy to overlook seemingly minor mistakes that might be devastating your ride’s shine. Let’s reveal the less-than-obvious, but incredibly common mistakes that people make in washing a car. Such mistakes eventually make your ride less bright over time. So let’s talk about how to prevent these kinds of mistakes from happening.
Table of Contents
Washing with dish soap instead of the appropriate car wash products
It might seem easy, cheap, and efficient with dish soap, but among the worst products to apply for car washing is probably dish soap. As such, it is specifically used to cut through grease and oils, which results in stripping away protective wax layers that are present on your car, making the paint layer vulnerable to damage. Get a good car wash soap that is specifically made for cleaning your car without ruining the finish.
- Quick Tip: Always read the label on the product and check that it is pH-balanced and safe to use on automotive paint.
Washing in direct sunlight
A sunny day can seem like the ideal day to wash your car, but direct sunlight will evaporate water and soap far too quickly, creating nasty water spots and streaks. Water spots etch into the paint and do not polish out.
- Solution: Wash your car in the shade or in the cooler parts of the day, say early in the morning or late afternoon. This will ensure soap and water remain on the surface long enough to allow proper cleaning without leaving any marks.
Failure to Follow Pre-Rinse Steps
One of the most overlooked steps in car washing is the pre-rinse. Skipping this step means you’re scrubbing dirt and debris directly into your paint, creating swirl marks and scratches.
- Why It Matters: The pre-rinse removes loose dirt and grit, making the washing process smoother and safer.
- How to Do It Right: Use a hose or pressure washer to thoroughly rinse your car before applying soap.
Using Dirty or Harsh Towels
The kind of towel you use when washing your car is the difference between having a successful clean or not. Dirty towels or abrasive towels can create micro-scratches on your car that will leave it looking dull in the long run.
Best Practices
- Use microfiber towels soft, clean, and automotive-specific.
- Wash towels separately from other laundry so as not to get contaminated by lint or harsh chemicals.
Overlooking the Wheels
Your car’s wheels take the worst of road grime, brake dust, and dirt, yet they’re often overlooked during the car washing process. Over time, this buildup can become corrosive, leading to permanent damage.
- Pro Tip: Use a dedicated wheel cleaner and brush to tackle stubborn grime. Cleaning your wheels first prevents dirt from splashing onto a freshly washed car.
Neglecting the Undercarriage
Often overlooked and hidden from view, the undercarriage tends to be forgotten during car washing. However, salt, mud, and debris can accumulate underneath your vehicle, leading to rust and corrosion.
How to Protect Your Car:
- Invest in a pressure washer with an undercarriage attachment.
- Regularly rinse the undercarriage, especially after driving in salty or muddy conditions.
Improper Drying Techniques
Although less demanding, air drying often comes along with streaks and water spots.
You can scratch your paint from using a rough towel too.
Recommended Alternatives:
- Use an automotive-specific microfiber drying towel or a silicone blade.
- A car drying blower for a professional blow-drying without touching.
Not Being Washed Often Enough
Waiting too long between car washing sessions allows dirt, grime, and pollutants to build up, potentially damaging your paint. Regular washing isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s essential for preserving your car’s value.
- Ideal Frequency: Wash your car at least every two weeks, or more often if you’re driving in harsh conditions.
Ignoring Quality Car Washing Tools
Cheap sponges, low-quality soap, and generic brushes can wreak havoc on your car’s finish. Investing in high-quality tools might seem costly upfront, but it’s a smart long-term investment.
Must-Have Tools:
- Two-bucket system (one for soap, one for rinsing) to prevent cross-contamination.
- Soft mitts and applicators designed for automotive use.
Conclusion: Master the Art of Car Washing
Your car deserves the best care and, by avoiding these weird car washing mistakes, you take the first step to maintain its shine. Following these tips and investing in good tools and techniques can guarantee your car’s finish protection while increasing its value and driving away in gleam all the time.
Start using these tips today and find a method of car washing that is almost like the pros do. Your ride will thank you with a head-turning shine that lasts for years to come!