Washing your car can make it look fresh off the lot again so it’s no surprise that Brits now have a two-day festival dedicated to it. We love the way our vehicles sparkle but it might not come as a surprise to hear that the cost of professional car washes certainly add up.
Luckily, with a little know-how and the right equipment, you can achieve that same showroom shine right on your driveway for just a fraction of the price.
Preparation and Equipment
You can’t just jump straight into the washing and polishing even though it’s tempting. This will also help you achieve the best results! Park your car in a shaded area to prevent soap from drying too quickly and leaving streaks.
You need two buckets: one for soapy water and one for rinsing, a high-quality shampoo, a microfibre wash mitt, a sponge for the wheels, a drying towel and a garden hose with a jet nozzle.
The two-bucket car method is what all the best valets use. It’s the safest way to prevent streaks and ensure that the paint remains scratch-free. The only way that scratches can be repaired are through expensive respraying or polishing.
Washing Technique
Begin by rinsing the car thoroughly with clean water to remove loose dirt and grit. This prevents you from dragging those particles across the paintwork later on.
Next, fill one bucket with warm water and a generous dollop of car wash shampoo. Rinse your wash mitt frequently to remove any trapped dirt and wash the car in sections, starting from the roof and working your way down. Use long, gentle strokes in a straight line motion – circular motions can introduce unwanted swirl marks.
For a thorough clean of the car’s interior, including hard-to-reach areas and upholstery, consider using a versatile tool like the M18 Wet/Dry Vacuum. This powerful device can effectively remove dirt, debris, and even liquids from various surfaces, making it an excellent addition to your car cleaning arsenal.
Drying and Finishing Touches
Use your microfibre drying towel to gently pat the car dry. Microfibre is super absorbent and lowers the risk of scratching compared to normal towels. Once the car is dry, you can add a finishing touch with a coat of car wax that not only makes it look great but protects the paintwork from the elements.
Regular washes not only keep your car looking its best, but they also help to prevent dirt and grime from building up and damaging the exterior. In general, this will make your vehicle last longer and you’ll be doing yourself a favour when the time comes to sell.