How to Wash Your Car: Part 1 - Equipping Your Arsenal
How do I wash my car!?
If you can figure this out you can save yourself a lot of money, keep your car clean, and maintain its longevity and resale value for years to come.
Detailers can make washing your car look very complicated but the truth is that you are just a few tools and products away from being completely capable of safely washing your car and getting awesome results on your own, right in your driveway.
Two Buckets: Having two buckets is a game-changer in car washing. One bucket is for your soapy water solution, while the other is for rinsing your mitt or towels to prevent grit from scratching your vehicle's paint. Any clean home depot bucket will do but you can also find some nice dedicated car washing buckets that also include a grit guard. Adam's Polishes 3.5 Gallon Car Wash Buckets & Grit Guards (2 Pack)
Wash Mitts : These are your hands in the car washing process. Opt for a high-quality wash mitt or microfiber towels to gently lift dirt and grime without scratching your car's surface. The Rag Company - Premium Chenille Microfiber Knobby Wash Mitts (2-Pack)
Microfiber Towels: Microfiber towels are versatile cleaning tools essential for car cleaning. These towels are highly absorbent and trap dirt and debris effectively, making them indispensable for various cleaning tasks. Kirkland Signature Ultra High Pile Premium Microfiber Towels, 36 Count
Drying Towel: Say goodbye to water spots with a high-quality drying towel. Look for a soft, absorbent towel that won't leave lint behind and can quickly dry your car's surface without streaks. The Rag Company - The Big One - Waffle-Weave Microfiber Drying Towel; Scratch-Free, 450GSM, 25in x 40in, Grey The Rag Company - The Gauntlet Drying Towel - 70/30 Blend Korean Microfiber, 900gsm, 15in x 24in, Ice Grey/Grey, 2 Pack
Car Wash Soap: Don't settle for dish soap or harsh cleaners that can strip your car's wax or protective coatings. Invest in a pH-balanced car wash soap that will effectively clean your vehicle without damaging its finish. Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash, Car Wash Foam for Car Cleaning – 64 Oz Container
Spray Sealant: For added protection and shine, consider using a spray sealant after washing your car. It will enhance the gloss of your paint and provide a protective barrier against the elements. Turtle Wax 50984 ICE Seal N Shine Hybrid Sealant Spray Wax-16 oz
Tire Shine: Don't forget about your tires! A good tire shine product will not only make your tires look sleek and black but also protect them from cracking and fading due to UV rays. Meguiar's G190315 Ultimate Insane Shine Tire Coating - 15 Oz Spray Can
You can arm yourself with these essential tools for less than $100 and you'll be well-equipped to tackle any car washing task with confidence.
Feel free to explore the links provided to stock up on the necessary tools for your car washing arsenal. (I’ve intentionally included products that are readily available, cheap, easy to use, and detailer recommended.)
Stay tuned for the next installment of our series, where we'll dive into the step-by-step process of washing your car like a pro!
Happy cleaning!
