Warmer weather is just around the car, let’s talk about how you can keep your car looking squeaky clean throughout spring!
Washing your car can seem like a job you just don’t want to begin, so it makes sense that so many people visit a car wash. However if you know the best way to do it, washing your car can be done in half the time and save you money!
Washing your car effectively requires a little bit more than just a bucket and sponge! Especially if you don’t want to risk damaging your cars paintwork. It may seem like the easy option to chuck some car shampoo in a bucket of water. However, dirt and grit can become trapped in the sponge which could create swirly marks through your paintwork.
What will I need?
The ideal tool for effective car washing is a pressure washer. If you don’t have a pressure washer a hose with a spray gun extension will work too!
You’ll need two buckets, a wash mitt, car shampoo and a microfibre drying towel.
This basic set of equipment will mean allow you to wash your car effectively (if you want a super shiny finish you’ll need some additional items).
How long will it take?
We recommend giving yourself at least an hour if you want to have good, effective results.
Try to work in the shade as if car shampoo dries too quickly it will leave streaky marks. Lastly, try and pick a day where there’s no rain!
What do I need to do?
Your very first job is to pre rinse the car.
As we mentioned, a pressure washer is best, but a garden hose with spray gun attachment is good too.
Start from the top of your car, rinse the loose dirt from the body and between the panel gaps.
Wash inside the wheel arches and the alloy wheels.
Remove all loose dirt that may become trapped in the wash mitt. By removing as much dirt as possible now you are saving time and effort during the wash!
Okay, so you’ve done your pre rinse. The next job is the wash!
This is where you need your two buckets of water and the wash mitt. Add your preferred shampoo to ONE bucket, leaving the other with fresh water.
Start from the top with your wash mitt (coated in car shampoo) to wash the remaining dirt off the car.
You simply need to rub the car with a sideways motion (which will minimise swirly marks). If there are any stubborn areas don’t be afraid to go back over them to ensure a full clean.
Rinse the wash mitt in the bucket of clean water before returning to the soapy bucket!
So the car is clean. Now what?
The rinse!
Grab your pressure washer or your hose and start from the top again.
Once all the shampoo is gone, grab your microfibre drying cloth to give the car a dry.
Perfect if you’re in a hurry!
As we mentioned earlier, if you want a more in depth clean (including the inside) you’ll need some additional equipment;
- microfibre cloths
- a specialist interior cleaner
- hoover
- for cleaning glass, a number of specialist cleaners and polishes are available, although you might find that the trusty newspaper and household window cleaner works wonders
- car wax
- polish
