Your car is probably the second-biggest thing you'll ever buy. A proper wash protects the paint, keeps resale value up, and let's be honest, a clean car just feels better to drive. Here's how detailers do it.
1. Wash in the shade
Hot panels dry soap and water too quickly, leaving spots and streaks. Early morning or late afternoon is perfect.
2. Wheels first
Wheels and tyres are the dirtiest part of the car. Clean them first with a dedicated tyre & rim cleaner so you don't splash brake dust onto clean paint.
3. Use car shampoo, never dish soap
Dishwashing liquid is designed to strip grease, which means it strips your car's wax and protective coatings too. A proper car shampoo lifts dirt while being gentle on the finish.
4. The two-bucket method
One bucket of shampoo, one bucket of clean rinse water. Rinse your mitt after every panel so you're not rubbing grit into the paint, which is the main cause of swirl marks.
5. Top to bottom
Roof, windows, bonnet and boot, then sides, then the lower sills last (they're the grimiest).
6. Dry with microfibre
Let a big microfibre towel do the work. Blot or gently drag. No chamois scrubbing needed.
7. Don't forget the inside
Vacuum, then wipe the dash, console and door panels with an interior cleaner. Finish the glass inside and out.
Our sister company Max Products has a full car care range, including car shampoo, tyre & rim cleaners, interior cleaners and ready-made car care hampers.
Products mentioned in this guide
Available now from our sister company Max Products at maxproducts.co.za, in trade sizes and delivered in Cape Town.
Visit maxproducts.co.za →
Microfibre Cloths 10 Pack
Jumbo Garage Roll White
