Skip to content
Your Ultimate Source for DIY Car Detailing & Valeting Supplies — Perfect for Enthusiasts & Weekend Car Lovers
Your Ultimate Source for DIY Car Detailing & Valeting Supplies — Perfect for Enthusiasts & Weekend Car Lovers
Cleaning Your Car

Cleaning Your Car

Ever wonder how to get your car looking like it just came off the showroom floor? Car detailing doesn’t have to be intimidating! Whether you're a complete beginner or just tired of looking at the grime on your car, this guide will walk you through the basics of detailing your car to a good standard.

 

Step 1: Pre-Wash Rinse

  • Rinse your car thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris. Using snow foam or citrus pre wash can make this step a dream.
  • Focus on wheels and tires first to avoid splashing brake dust onto the body & don't forget to clean under the arches!

Step 2: Clean the Wheels and Tires

  • Use a wheel cleaner and a tire brush to scrub down the wheels. Wheels tend to get the dirtiest, so give them extra attention. 
  • You can also use either a wheel cleaner or citrus pre wash to clean your tyres, don't forget to use a tyre brush if you have one.

Step 3: Wash the Car Using the Two-Bucket Method

  • Fill one bucket with soapy water and the other with just water for rinsing your wash mitt. Try washing two panels & flipping your mitt in-between, then rinse.
  • Start washing from top to bottom to avoid dragging dirt onto clean areas. If you have them, use detailing brushes to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Step 4: Drying the Car

  • Dry your car with a microfiber towel to avoid water spots. Work section by section.
  • A good rinse aid will make drying your car effortless if you have one!

Step 5: Decontamination (Optional)

  • If you want to remove embedded contaminants from your car’s paint (like tree sap, tar and fallout) use a clay bar. Lubricate the surface with a clay lubricant, then rub the clay bar gently over the paint.
  • To avoid marring and scratches, use a tar remover and iron remover before claying the paint.

Step 6: Polish and Wax

  • If your car's paint is a little dull, apply a polish or paint correction compound.
  • Follow up with a layer of wax or sealant for protection. Wax makes the car shine and protects the paint.
Previous article Cars & Coffee
Next article Winter Protection

Compare products

{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}

Select first item to compare

Select second item to compare

Select third item to compare

Compare