Car detailing is an art within an art, requiring precision from its very first stage: washing. Proper cleaning is crucial for achieving professional results in subsequent steps and for preserving the car's appearance. In this step-by-step guide, we will explain how to wash your car yourself, including the steps, tools, and products necessary to allow you to wash your car independently, achieving levels of cleanliness on par with or exceeding those of a professional service.
How to Wash Your Car by Hand
Washing your car properly is the first step in taking care of it and preserving its beauty over time. Hand washing is undoubtedly the most popular technique in DIY car care, but it’s still necessary to follow specific precautions to wash the car without scratching it and to preserve its integrity for the long haul. To begin, gather a bucket, a car-specific shampoo, closed-pore sponges, and a wool or microfiber wash mitt. Start by rinsing the car to remove coarse dust, then prepare a water solution with shampoo or spray it directly onto the surface and begin washing the car with gentle strokes. Always wash the car with movements directed from top to bottom, avoiding circular motions that could cause swirl marks. After finishing, rinse thoroughly.
The Correct Order for Washing Your Car
The order in which you wash the car is crucial because it allows for a deep clean. Always start with the interior seats and floor mats to prevent dirt from falling onto freshly cleaned panels. Use a specific interior cleaner to ensure compatibility with various types of materials: plastics, metals, vinyl, rubber, and fabrics. After the interior, move on to the exterior. Start with the wheels, as they are often the dirtiest parts of the car. After shampooing, use a degreaser on the tires and rims. Next, clean the body from top to bottom. Make sure to have different sponges, professional wash mitts, and microfiber cleaning cloths to avoid contaminating the surfaces.
How to Dry Your Car After Washing
Drying is equally important because it prevents the formation of unsightly water spots and ensures a brilliant finish. For this reason, it is very important to use soft microfiber cloths that preserve surfaces. Gently pat and do not rub to avoid scratches. Additionally, dry the metallic parts immediately to prevent water marks. Ensure that the car is completely dry to avoid streaks, drips, or spots before the next treatment.
Learn more about drying your car in our guide on how to remove water spots after washing.
Chemical Decontamination
If the washing stage isn't sufficient to remove stubborn dirt caused by contaminants like bugs, resin, and tar, chemical decontamination is necessary. This operation involves using specific chemicals to remove potentially corrosive contaminants from the car's body, such as resin, tar, insects, or small incrustations. Apply the product with a manual pad and a non-woven fabric (TNT) or a microfiber cleaning cloth, gently rubbing the affected surfaces. To preserve the bodywork and avoid the potential damage that such residues and incrustations can cause, it is very important to rinse the treated surface thoroughly with the decontaminant before proceeding to the next step.
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Learn more about decontamination in the guide: How to Perform Car Decontamination: A Complete Guide.
How Often Should You Wash Your Car
Now that we understand the steps to wash the car, the question naturally arises: how often should you wash your car? Generally, it is recommended to wash your car at least once a month, but the frequency of washing depends heavily on usage and weather conditions. If you live in a particularly polluted area or one exposed to harsh weather, you might need to wash it even weekly.
Using high-quality products such as shampoos and protectants can help you extend the interval between washes.
What You Need to Wash Your Car
For an effective wash, it's important to have the right products and accessories: they will help you achieve quality results, simplify the washing process, and make the task more enjoyable. Select the appropriate product for your car with a glossy or matte finish and start cleaning your vehicle right away.
It's essential to have a specific cleaner for both interiors and exteriors, a bucket with a grid for rinsing, closed-pore sponges, a wool wash mitt, microfiber cloths for cleaning, decontamination products like decontaminants, and polishing products like polish and protectants like wax.
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How Much Does a Hand Car Wash Cost
The cost of a car wash at a body shop varies depending on the region you live in and the services offered. The cost of a hand wash performed by a professional starts at 20 euros for a general wash and can reach several hundred euros for more comprehensive cleaning.
However, car lovers who enjoy taking care of their cars with their own hands and unmatched passion can reduce the costs of a body shop wash by investing in a high-quality wash and cleaning kit. High-quality products last a long time and preserve your car, spreading the costs over time and still ensuring professional results like those of an auto wash.
