Car Wash and Detailing: At Home Methods that Will Save You Money

Performing your own car wash and detailing at home can save you money. There are many products that the average person can purchase to perform an impressive job at home. When you consider the cost for a standard grade detailing service can cost you $100 or more, the at-home job is worth thinking about. Once the products have been purchased, you can perform the task multiple times for about the same cost of a single car wash and detailing job.

The most important part of at home detailing is ensuring the removal of dirt and grit. Before beginning the car wash and detailing, the vehicle should be rinsed off thoroughly to remove loose debris and dirt particles that could scratch the finish. A good method for dirt removal is to use a side-to-side spray pattern, that combines the hardest spray setting available with your hose and nozzle. Scratches to the clear coat paint can be prevented by using a washcloth made from microfiber material. This type of material will not hold dirt particles the way brushes and sponges do. Ensuring that the washcloth is fully rinsed at all times helps with the elimination of dirt particles that could scratch the vehicle's finish. Use circular overlapping movements until the entire vehicle has been washed. Remember to change the wash bucket frequently to avoid redepositing grit onto the vehicle.

Keep in mind, it is the accumulation of tiny scratches that reduce the shine, luster and rust protection ability of the finish. Once the vehicle has been washed, it must be thoroughly rinsed. When drying the vehicle, use a clean, dry microfiber cloth folded in quarters. Start drying the windows, and then start from the roof of the vehicle and work downward. Be sure to periodically refold the towel to expose a fresh area for drying.

Some of the typical tasks you will want to perform are the car wash, car wax, interior vacuuming, cleaning and applying a UV protectant to the dash, doors, and depending on the type of material they are made from, the seats. The use of protectant or dressing to the exterior trim, if made of rubber or rubberized plastic, and the tires can also be performed. Don't forget to clean the windows, doorjambs and floor mats. For the finishing touch, you can apply your favorite fragrance to the interior. If the vehicle's finish has been neglected, it may be necessary to perform light oxidation and/or scratch removal by using polishing compound before waxing. The use of a buffing wheel will make this job go considerably faster; however, damage to the clear coat paint can result if the buffing wheel is used incorrectly. Car waxing by hand is the safest method, but takes longer to accomplish. Wax a small area to ensure enough time to apply and remove the wax before it completely hardens.

Regular car wash and detailing can assist in protecting the finish. A dirty finish traps moisture against the clear coat paint, and can promote rust. Cleaning the vehicle's finish weekly can reduce the damage that dirt, road salts and pollution create, thereby keeping the finish looking new.