Washing your car may seem like a trivial task. As long as you are seeing results, all is well. It turns out that is not entirely the case, as there is more to it than you may think. Using the wrong products and tools for the job may lead to paintwork damage can contribute to a dull look. There are a lot of things you are probably doing wrong, even without realising it. Following are some of the most common mistakes that non-professional make as part of the DIY car wash process, which you should avoid at all costs:
- You use dishwashing liquid – this is probably one of the most common mistakes that people make in regards to washing their car. There are multiple reasons why people use washing-up liquid. One is that they falsely believe that since it is doing wonders for the dishes, it must be good for the car. Another is that it is readily available and very easy to use. The trouble comes from the fact that the chemicals used to clean the dishes can, in fact, do some damage to the paintwork. What you should be doing is using a specialised car shampoo for best results in terms of removing grime and dirt, all the while keeping your paintwork intact.
- Using the wrong type of cloth – as far as cleaning the car is concerned, you shouldn’t reach for that sponge or dishcloth. These aren’t meant to be used on cars, nor do they do a decent job of cleaning the vehicle. They contribute to lasting imperfections, such as swirls and fine scratches. These may seem minor, but they quickly add up. What you need to use for best results is a wash mitt of microfibre material, which is great for absorbing moisture and cleaning the surface of the vehicle.
- Cleaning when the sun is at full force – it is never wise to clean your car out in the sun. Yes, you may feel like it, since the weather is all nice, but it is ineffective. As you apply shampoo or paint polish, it will dry very fast, even before you have had a chance to wipe it off. What you should do instead is park your car in the shade and clean it there.
- You apply any product directly on the paintwork – if you value your car, you should never ever apply products directly on the paintwork. A great deal of auto-detailing solutions should first be diluted and then used. Even then, it is best to apply products on a cloth and then on the car. This is particularly the case with polish and wax.
- Cleaning missed areas with a drying cloth – there is no guarantee you will clean every area of your car. Unfortunately, sometimes you only find this out when you are drying the car and instinctively tackle the missed spot with a drying cloth. This can work the dirt into the pain and cause scratches, so it is best not to do it.
- You clean with a single bucket only – as you dip your sponge/mitt into the bucket, the water in it will soon become dirty. If you use it more, you will only transfer the grime on the paintwork, which leads to nothing good. It is best to use at least two buckets or to change the water in the bucket regularly.
No doubt eliminating all of these mistakes is a sure way to clean your car like a pro. Do so, and you will find the end result greatly satisfying.
At Fast Car Mobile Valeting, you can find even more useful tips on how to wash and detail your car like a pro.
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