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Washing your car is a simple everyday task for most of us. But did you know that washing your car using incorrect techniques can actually cause damage to your car? Yes, it’s true. You can end up damaging the paint and the finish of your car if you’re not aware of the proper washing methods.

In this blog, we will try and explore the top 10 common car wash mistakes, offer solutions on how to avoid car wash damage and provide the best car washing tips to keep your car looking its best.

1) Don’t Use Household Cleaners

Many people use dish soap or shampoos to clean their cars, thinking that any soap will do the trick. Although it is a cost-effective way to get your car clean, it isn’t the optimum choice. While these products do remove dirt and grease, they are too harsh for your vehicle’s paint.

Instead, opt for a proper car soap or cleaner, which is formulated for the car’s paint job. They get the dirt and grease off without stripping the protective wax layers.

Professional car cleaners come with ingredients that enhance the shine and provide better protection against contaminants.

2) Don’t Wash in Direct Sunlight

When you wash your car in the beaming sun, chances are that the soap and water can dry off quickly and leave spots and streaks.

It’s ideal to wash your car under a shade or during the less bright hours of the day. This will prevent premature drying and avoid pesky spots. But, if you must wash in direct sunlight, try to frequently rinse your car with water to prevent soap from drying too quickly on the surface.

3) Avoid Using the Same Dirty Bucket

Most people use the same bucket twice- once for washing and then again for the final rinse. When you use the same bucket for both washing and rinsing, dirt and debris accumulate in the water, which can be transferred back onto your car’s surface, leading to scratches.

Use two buckets instead. It’s double the work but at least it’ll keep the debris off your car, permanently. One bucket is for soapy water and the other one for clean water for the final rinse.

4) Stop Using Old Sponges

Old and rough sponges can cause micro scratches, which over time, can become apparent. These tiny scratches dull the finish and make the car look worn out.

Opt for a high-quality microfiber sponge or washcloth. These are designed to be gentle for your car’s finish and paintwork. These materials trap dirt without scratching the surface. It's also recommended to wash these thoroughly after every car wash to avoid dirt from being tripped inside the cloth or sponge.

5) Don’t Skip the Pre-Rinse

Are you one of those people who start scrubbing the car directly without rinsing the car first? Then, you’re making a big mistake. This practice can grind dirt and grit into the paint, causing scratches.

Always thoroughly rinse your car first to remove unwanted dirt, dust, and debris. Then move on to applying soap.

6) Why Ignore the Wheels?

It’s a common oversight. People rub and scrub at the body of the car but forget the wheels. Brake dust and road grime can build up in the tire part, damaging your wheels over time.

There are soft brushes and wheel cleaners available that can help you clean your wheels and tires separately. Don’t use the same sponge or mitt that you’re using on the car.

7) Don’t Overlook the Drying Process

Most people leave their freshly washed cars to dry on their own, or just simply rub a dry towel on it. This can lead to irritating wet spots and residual soap stains.

Try to use a clean, soft microfiber towel when drying your car to avoid scratches. It’s a little more effort but this will ensure thorough drying and avoid water spots.

You can also use a drying aid or spray wax while drying to add an extra layer of protection and enhance the shine of your car.

8) Are you using a pressure washer incorrectly?

See, pressure washers are excellent when it comes to getting rid of tough stains or dirt. However, too much pressure is known to damage your car’s paint, trim, and seals.

It’s recommended you keep the pressure washer’s nozzle at least 12 inches away from your car while washing it. Also, try to use a wide spray to distribute the pressure evenly. Avoid targeting vulnerable areas like rubber seals or edges where the paint might be weaker.

9) Never Skip the Waxing

When you skip the waxing step, your car is susceptible to UV damage, dirt buildup, and unwanted scratches. This is because you’re leaving the paint unprotected.

Opt for a nice wax or paint sealant and use it on your car after washing it nicely. Wax acts as a barrier against contaminants and helps water bead off the surface.

For an even better protective layer, consider ceramic coating. This will help in long-term durability, and will even make your future washes easier.

10) Not opting for a professional car cleaning by Car Detox

This could be one of the biggest mistakes in your car care regimes. We’re just a call away from coming to your homes or offices and pampering your car with all the necessary steps and materials. Our state-of-the-art technology and expert teams ensure that every car washed by us is a sight to behold.

We use the best products and the best hands to make your cars spotless and eye-catching

Avoiding the above list of casual mistakes can actually help prolong your car’s life and shine. It not only helps in a visual way, but also helps in the durability of your car. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone who takes their car to a professional service like Car Detox, using proper car wash techniques is key to maintaining your vehicle's appearance and value.

With the right tools and techniques, you can avoid costly Car Detailing in Tualatin errors and ensure your vehicle stays in top condition. Happy washing!