Detailing Done Correctly
Cleaning your car, can be a significant task to tackle during your weekend. If you’re investing time in washing your vehicle on your day off, it’s good to ensure you’re doing it right.
Start by addressing exterior areas with stubborn residues like dried-on bugs and road tar using a specialized cleaner. Follow this by rinsing your car with cool water and giving it a thorough wash. Finish off with a comprehensive rinse and drying, using a clean cloth. For the interior, sanitize surfaces with a disinfecting wipe to eliminate germs.
What to Avoid?
In order to have a spotless car, it’s recommended to avoid these common mistakes:
- Washing your car in the hot sun might seem convenient, but it often leads to water spots due to rapid drying. Opt for mornings or evenings when the sun is less intense.
- Using dish soap on your car’s exterior is a mistake. While effective in the kitchen, it’s too harsh for your vehicle’s paint and can result in scratches resembling spider webs.
- Don’t rely on just one bucket of water. Car detailing experts recommend using two: one for soapy water and another for rinsing. Washing your car with the same water used for rinsing can reintroduce dirt, potentially causing scratches.
- To prevent streaks and scratches, clean your car from top to bottom in a systematic manner, rather than in random directions. Starting from the top ensures that water doesn’t run onto areas already cleaned.
- Don’t neglect your tires, which often accumulate a significant amount of dirt. Thoroughly washing them is crucial to prevent mud or dirt from spreading to other parts of your vehicle.
- Applying a protective coat of wax can help repel dirt and grime.
- Regularly clean your cup holders to prevent the buildup of bacteria. If removable, place them in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning, or use warm soapy water for non-removable holders.
- The dashboard, being a high-touch area exposed to direct sunlight, can harbor germs. Wipe it down with a disinfecting wipe to keep it clean and sanitized.
- Floor mats accumulate dirt and debris from shoes, making them one of the dirtiest parts of your car. Vacuum them thoroughly, treat stains with a remover and brush if necessary. Allow them to dry completely.
- Avoid rolling down the windows before your car is fully dry to prevent water streaks on the exterior.
- Conserve water by turning off the hose when not in use during car washing. This helps minimize water usage.
In conclusion
Maintaining the cleanliness of your car, both inside and out, is a significant undertaking. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that you’re executing the task correctly to maximize the results of your efforts.