Tips for Cleaning your Car at Home

cleaning a car interior with a cloth

Like to clean your own car, rather than paying for a car washing service? We’ve put together some top tips to help get the best results when cleaning your car.

The first step in car cleaning is to select a quality cleaning chemical to add with your water. Using a reputable brand is essential, as cheaper products can harm the cars paint and finish. Using a TRF cleaner (traffic film remover) helps to remove stubborn dirt and grease picked up from the roads. Focus on one section of the car at a time, starting at the roof. When washing, wash in straight overlapping lines, avoiding circles which may leave swirl marks. The first pass should be gentle, avoiding the risk of grinding dirt into the glass. It’s also a good idea to keep your wash bucket dry so that you don’t get a streaky finish.

The next step is to rinse off any water and soap or chemical that is left on the car. Then, use a soft cloth to wipe off the water. Repeat the process until the car is dry. When washing the exterior, start at the top and work downward. Only start at the wheels and tires if they are extremely dirty. You should clean the entire interior first before working your way down.

Use the correct car cleaning tools

Using specialist detailing tools is an easy way to keep your car clean and in good shape. Most detailing tools you need can be found online at reasonable prices. You can use an old toothbrush, an old paintbrush, a cotton swab, and even a pipe cleaner for cleaning steel wheels. Whereas for alloy wheels and bodywork, it’s a good idea to use a lint free cloth. Using a two bucket method, one to rinse your cloth, and one to apply chemical or soap, will stop any dirt or small stones from harming the car paintwork.

Clean the Unseen Areas of your Car

Another area to consider for car cleaning is under the doors and around the bonnet and boot lid. These areas are often forgotten, but they are vital for removing collected dirt and debris. People’s shoes can leave animal waste and mud on the door, causing bacteria to spread throughout the vehicle. Not only is this area dirty, but it can also pose health risks to you and your passengers. To make sure your customers are getting the best service, you should always keep your cars clean and free from dirt.

Dry off Thoroughly

Once you have completed the washing, you can continue with the drying process. When you’re ready to dry the car, you should start with the top part of the vehicle and work your way around it.

Conclusion

A car cleaning checklist is a must to ensure that you clean every part of your car, including the inside. Keeping the interior clean is crucial for preserving its shine and preventing stains. If you have a small child, you can always use a Tupperware or cereal container to place garbage in and prevent smells in the car. When washing the under the bonnet, be sure to take care you don’t wet any electrical components.

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