How hard can car cleaning be?
This is a question that many car owners will ask themselves before grabbing a bucket, sponge and some warm soapy water. In many cases, even the most honest attempts to keep cars clean and inadvertently lead to car washes that do more harm than good.
Using the wrong detailing products or incorrect washing techniques can leave cars looking underwhelming, and at worst maybe damaged.
However, armed with the right knowledge and some guidance, car washing mistakes are completely avoidable.
In this article we're going to cover off to most common mistakes people make when cleaning cars, and more importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake 1 - Using washing up liquid as your car wash soap
We understand where you're at. The car is looking dirty and you've reached for most accessible cleaning product in your home - the trusty washing up liquid. Whilst washing up liquid is fantastic with plates and pans, it will unfortunately wreak havoc on your car's paintwork.
It will strip away the protective layers and expose the paint to all outside elements making it far more susceptible to fading, scratches and any other wear and tear.
The solution
This one is simple. Always use a specialist car wash shampoo.
Why? They will have been formulated to be kind to your paint, and be designed to cleanse and rejuvenate the surface. Good quality car wash soap will also add an extra shine to ensure your car turns heads on the road.
Mistake 2 - Washing your car is direct sunlight
Sunny days always seem like the perfect time to wash your car. But always consider the fact that doing so may well result in you getting a nice tan, but your car would be shouting for help if it could.
Washing your car in direct sunlight will result in the rapid evaporation of your water. This will lead to a poor finish thanks to unsightly water spots and result in other cleaning products drying out too quickly, which makes them far less effective.
The solution
We understand you don't want to be outside washing your car in bad weather or in the dark, but ideally you should be washing at a time when sun rays are weaker. First thing in the morning or later in the afternoon are ideal, or simply find yourself a shady spot to both wash and dry your car.
Mistake 3 - Avoiding your cars undercarriage
Whilst the undercarriage is out of sight, it shouldn't be out of mind. Ignoring it, especially in the Winter lets salt and grit gather, which can lead to corrosion and other unwanted damage.
The solution
Give the underside of your car a regular rinse, especially during the Winter. It's a vital step to removing contaminants and ensuring your car enjoys a healthier life.
Mistake 4 - Only using 1 wash bucket
We know, one wash bucket seems enough, but there's a problem. If you're using the same bucket to both clean and rinse, you're basically washing your car with all the dirt you're trying to remove. This will result in swirl marks and scratches caused by the dust and debris you're rubbing back into the car's surface.
The solution
Use two car wash buckets. One should contain your fresh soapy suds that you just use to clean. The other bucket should be used for rinsing. Ensuring you only ever dip a clean wash mitt or sponge into your the soapy bucket.
Mistake 5 - Not adding protection
So you washed, rinsed and dried your car with a microfiber towel, and you think that's job done, right? Wrong!
Leaving you car unprotected leave it exposed to all the elements and unpleasantries you've just cleaned off.
The solution
Add sealant or car wax to increase protection. They're formulated to not only shield your car and guard against damage, but also leave a fresh and gleaming shine.
To conclude
Car cleaning might seem straightforward, but if you want to correctly car for your vehicle you should become educated on the right techniques and products to use.
Being aware of common mishaps is the first step on the way to becoming a seasoned detailer.
The range of 303 products aren't just about cleaning, they're designed to nurture, protect and extend the life and value or your well loved vehicle. Car care shouldn't just be seen as a chore. Know that with any wash, wipe and wax you're not just cleaning, you're ensuring your vehicle is ready for many more miles ahead.