Many of us have found satisfaction in a trip to a professional car wash and detailing service since we were kids. As adults, there is also something special about driving your vehicle following a meticulous clean and detail, which can make a well-worn vehicle feel brand new.
However, there are unique benefits for those who take the time to learn how to clean and detail their own vehicles at a professional level. Some find cleaning their cars to be a therapeutic experience, and it can offer a satisfying sense of accomplishment. Here are some tips that will help you give your own vehicle a professional clean and detail.
Gather the Right Supplies
Most drivers will probably already have many of the supplies they need for an at-home wash and detail. Start with two buckets—one for the soapy water and one to rinse dirty rags and other supplies. It’s also important to carefully consider which soap you use, as the wrong kind can damage your car’s paint. Look for a car wash soap, as these soaps are built to prevent such damage.
Special consideration should also be given to the tools you use to wash and detail your car. While sponges may be popular for casual at-home car washes, these can trap dirt, which can damage a vehicle’s paint job. Some key supplies for giving a vehicle a professional detail include:
Clay bar
Clay bars are not common for casual home car washing, but they can be a powerful tool for restoring a vehicle’s shine. These bars are made of either natural or synthetic resin compounds and are used to remove contaminants like tree sap, tar, and industrial fallout from vehicle exteriors.
Car wax
While clay bars remove contaminants, a good car wax provides the exterior with an extra protective layer against contaminants and bad weather, not to mention improving the vehicle’s appearance.
Microfiber towel
These soft, absorbent towels are a much less abrasive alternative to a standard cotton towel. Microfiber towels will be useful through the washing, drying, and waxing process.
Lamb’s wool mitt
Wash mitts help prevent scratching and swirling during car detailing and are a much better alternative to sponges.
Glass cleaner
Your everyday household glass cleaner will work fine on your vehicle’s windows.
Wheel and tire cleaner
A strong wheel and tire cleaner can help break down brake dust and dirt built up from wear and tear.
How to Properly Detail a Car’s Exterior
Once you’ve assembled the right assortment of supplies, it’s time to put them to use:
Start with a light pre-rinse to wash away surface-level dirt and protect your car from paint scratches. A special pre-cleaner liquid can help remove grime and bugs from the surface.
Give each wheel a scrub down using specialized cleaner and either a microfiber towel or wash mitt. However, make sure to have a second wash mitt for use on your vehicle’s body. Use brushes to get inside the deeper nooks and crannies.
Move on to washing the body of the car using the two-bucket method and car-washing soap. Rinse each section as you go, rather than waiting until the end to hose down the whole car. Ensure all soap has been rinsed away before moving on to the next section.
Run your microfiber towel over the car until all moisture has been absorbed and the car is completely dry.
Now it’s time to use the clay bar. First, spray a clay-bar lubricant or a mixture of water and car soap over the surface, then gently begin rubbing the clay bar over one small area. Use the microfiber towel to dry the section before moving on to the rest of the vehicle in small segments.
Finish off your exterior detailing by applying the car wax. Use the same method of waxing small sections and go over the surface with your microfiber towel to remove any excess wax.
The Importance of a Regular Cleaning Schedule
A regular car washing routine does much more than simply make your vehicle look good; it also helps protect the vehicle and the driver. Vehicles need to be cleaned regularly to avoid preventable damage caused by mud, rain, salt, and other outside elements that can easily damage surfaces.
Regular car washes become even more important in the winter months for those who live in northern climates, as the toll of the elements is especially harsh during this time of year. Additionally, a clean car will have better visibility, helping the driver be safer on the road.
Can a Good Clean and Detail Increase Resale Value?
Committing to a regular cleaning and detailing schedule benefits cars and their owners in numerous ways. However, when someone decides to sell their vehicle, can car detailing help increase the resale value?
According to Kelley Blue Book, the answer is yes, as the vehicle’s condition is one of the two most important factors that affect the asking price for a vehicle. But if you want to fully maximize the future resale value of your vehicle, regularly detailing the car can help ensure it stays in pristine condition throughout its lifespan.
