How to Wash Your Car Like a Pro

For car owners, summer is synonymous with car washing. After all, driving a shiny car is a great boost to anyone’s moral! And on a more serious note, keeping your vehicle clean enhances its appearance and can help increase its resale value over the years. 

Of course, we’re not all experts in car washing—and that’s a good thing for the people who make their living from it. While you may not achieve their level of expertise, this article will still give you a good understanding of how to go about washing your car properly.  

• Also: Wax vs. Sealant
• Also: Keep Your Car Shining All Summer by Avoiding These Traps

So, how do you effectively wash a car?

1.  First things first: buy car soap. Too many people make the mistake of using household detergents or dish soap on their car, but there’s nothing worse for dulling your car’s paint. Your local hardware store will carry various car soaps, but the best are the “wash and wax” options. These two-in-one products will clean your ride and protect it too. 
2. Now, what’s the right technique? Rest assured that it’s not rocket science. Ideally, park your car in the shade to cool its exterior. Then hose it down to remove any dirt and dust. Once you’ve got it all wet, dip your wash mitt or sponge into your bucket and start by cleaning the roof, windshield, hood, rear window and trunk hood. Make sure you rinse this section before the soap dries and leaves marks. Next, wash the vehicle’s sides, front and back, rinsing thoroughly each time.  
3. To finish, dry your car using an absorbent microfiber cloth that won’t scratch. These car wash basics should get your car looking its best this summer.