Many enthusiasts and quality detailers use a two-bucket wash system.  The first bucket holds your soapy water, and the second bucket holds rinse water.  The rinse water bucket is used to rinse your wash sponge or mitt prior to dunking it in the bucket of soapy water.  This method has two practical benefits.  First and foremost, it keeps dirt and grit out of your soapy water where it could cause damage to your car.  Second, it makes the suds in your soapy water last longer, because your car wash shampoo does not have to react to dirt you’re putting back into the water.

The high-quality car wash shampoos made today are very gentle on paint, plastic and rubber.  A good car wash shampoo provides lubrication to prevent scratching and conditioners to maintain the shine.  Be sure to select a quality product that’s not counterproductive to your detailing efforts.

As well as a good shampoo, the following quality tools are required to correctly wash a car:

Wash Mitt
Microfibre Waffle Weave Drying Towel

 

WASHING TIPS

1. Make sure your car is cool.  If possible, work in the shade.  A hot surface causes the wash and rinse water to evaporate too quickly, increasing the likelihood of water spotting.  One trick is to park on a slight incline.  This allows rinse water to run off moldings, trim and recessed areas better.  Start by thoroughly wetting the car’s finish with a medium spray of water to remove loose grit and surface dirt.

2. Wash the tires and wheels first.  If you wash the car body first, the water will dry and spot your car before you can properly finish washing the tires and wheels.  Do not use the same wash water on your car’s paint as you used on your tires and wheels.  Throw the dirty water out and refill your buckets.

3. Use a car wash shampoo specifically formulated for automotive use.  Look for a shampoo containing surface conditioners and gloss enhancers.  The surface conditioners act as a lubricant, allowing sand and abrasive grit to slide off in the rinse water without scratching the surface.  Quality car shampoos cost a little more, but are worth every penny.  If you have a dark car and constantly fight swirl marks, upgrade your wash shampoo, wash mitt and towels.

4. Use a quality wash tool.  I prefer a sheepskin wash mitt or microfiber wash mitt for washing.  These tools have a large number of fine filaments that draw dirt and grime away from the surface being cleaned into their internal structure.  Synthetic (flat-sided) sponges and washcloths can trap dirt, grit and grime on the surface, which can scratch your car’s paint. Make sure the wash mitt you choose holds plenty of soapy water.  The soapy water helps prevent scratching.

5. Wash from the top down and rinse the car often. Frequent rinsing is especially important if the car is excessively dirty.  If you are washing on a warm day, keep the whole car wet to prevent spotting.  I use a final rinse of free-flowing water (nozzle off the hose), allowing the water to sheet off the car.  This makes drying faster.

DRYING TIPS

Before drying, your car should be freshly rinsed and free of visible dirt, grease and oil.  Here’s the proper way to dry your car.

1. Remove the hose nozzle from your hose, and turn the water on with medium pressure.  Rinse your car, allowing the water to flow freely over the surface (do not spray the water).  The free-flowing action will cause the water to sheet off, carrying 80% or more of the surface water with it.  Allow the car to drip dry for a minute while you get your drying tools.

2. Use a clean Microfibre Waffle Weave Drying Towel to dry the remainder of the car.  Start at the top of the car and work down.  If you’re using a large drying towel, throw it out over the flat surface areas and slowly pull it toward you across the surface of the car.  Shake and turn your drying towel frequently.  To prevent streaking, fold your towel into a square for wiping.

3. Synthetic and Leather Chamois have been used for centuries for drying, they are still a good choice, but they are not as effective or as safe as a Microfibre Waffle Weave Drying Towel.

Regardless of how gentle your car shampoo is, or when you last waxed your car, driving and washing deplete the paint protection or wax you’ve applied to your car.  For this reason, I like to use a quick detailing spray or spray sealant on my car after washing.  A good detailing spray renews the “just waxed” shine and extends the life of your wax. Your tires and exterior rubber trim need a little shot of protection, too.  A quick wipe with your favorite protectant not only improves the look of the car, but also has a lasting effect on long-term wear.

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