The Right Way to Wash Your Car (Hint: Dish Soap Won't Cut It)
Jane Lu
· 4 min read
A brand new vehicle off the lot comes in pristine condition. You'll drive off in a great-looking car that you can't help but show off on the road. It doesn't take long, though, before that impeccable exterior changes. The dirt and grime from the road quickly accumulate, and you'll need to add a regular wash to your
car maintenance
. You can, of course, pay to take your vehicle through a local car wash. If you prefer to
get it clean
by hand, you'll need to know how to do it without causing problems for your vehicle. Dish soap and car washing supplies provide completely different results. Make sure you're using the right products and the right methods for a true and safe clean.
Don't use dish soap to wash your car
Turtle Wax
explains the harm dish soap can do to your vehicle. Don't think you can grab the bottle of soap off your kitchen counter and use it for a quick car wash. The grease-fighting agents within it can easily strip away the wax on your vehicle that protects the clear coat underneath. Using it once might not be enough to hurt it. Continue to use it, however, and over time the wax will wash away, right along with the paint underneath. You shouldn’t use dish soap to wash car parts on the outside, nor the inside. It won't provide the results you're hoping to achieve.
How to wash a car properly
To give your car a proper wash, start with a cleaning agent meant for vehicles. There are plenty of inexpensive options you can find at your local store or online. Use a soft, microfiber cloth, lamb's-wool mitt, or soft sponge—more abrasive options can damage your car's paint job.
It's best to have a separate cleaning cloth for the wheel wells. You'll need to use a stronger bug and tar remover for your tires since gunk from the roads easily accumulates there.
Consumer Reports
advises against using tire cleaners that claim they add shine or act as a sort of sunscreen for your vehicle. Tire makers say these effects aren't necessary, and you may even do more harm than good by using them. It's also wise to rinse the vehicle with water first. Dirt and debris left behind before you start scrubbing can leave scratches. You should also avoid washing it while it's hot since that will cause fast drying and make spots more likely to appear.
Why is it important to wash your car often and use the right supplies?
A dirty car does more than look unappealing. Over time, the corrosive agents from the road can eat away at parts and cause early degradation and rusting. The undercarriage of your vehicle and your tires need careful attention to ensure they aren't being corroded quickly.
The state you live in may also play a role. If you live in a place that sees regular snowfall in the winter, the roads are most likely salted to help with ice accumulation. All of this salt needs to be washed off your vehicle before it can cause damage.
Using the right supplies is key because they'll do the job as intended. They will work to eliminate dust and dirt and leave your car looking shiny and in great condition. Use the wrong products, and the wax, sealant, and paint will quickly be stripped away.
With these car cleaning tips in mind, you'll be able to keep your vehicle in the best-looking condition possible. Since you never know what can happen on the road, be sure you're also insured.
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