Some maintain their vehicle’s cleanliness and upkeep just for visuals. However, the real mindset is for the ride to stay smooth and for the vehicle’s worth to stay intact. It is best for the vehicle’s worth to stay intact. It is best to consider it an investment. Cleaning a car has its own techniques, tools, products, and it can even be considered an art. In this guide, we are going to show you the best products you can get to achieve a clean vehicle.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Car Regularly
A cleaned car always attracts attention and portrays a good image loud and clear. Regularly cleaning a car acts as a form of protection from the issues below.
Avoid Paint Damage – Cars should be washed regularly, at least once every 2 weeks, as contaminants and the elements (sun, oxidation, salt, etc.) can damage and ‘age’ the paint very quickly. Keeping the exterior safe and ultra slick helps to protect and keep the car looking nice and new.
Resell Money – Believe it or not, people notice a well-looked-after car regardless of the condition. Your car can be a rust bucket, and if it’s shiny and the wheels are washed, people are amazed at the condition. It makes it easier to sell, and you can demand a higher price.
Safer Driving Conditions – Car washing helps maintain improved visibility. People are able to drive with clear concentration for a safe drive.
Extend Upholstery – Clean interiors ensure the longevity of car materials. Dust and grime are the main factors in the wear of car curtains. Damage is mainly caused where liquids are not displaced and where the interior is not well looked after.
Key Areas to Focus on When Cleaning Your Car
- External Car Wash
An exterior car wash helps to remove unwanted dirt, dust, road grime, and other contaminants, which may lead to scratches and/or damage on the paint work. You will need:
- Car wash soap – Make sure to use a car-specific soap. Saafco has premium cleaners that will be able to clean a car without stripping necessary wax or sealants.
- Microfiber towels – These towels are gentle on the car’s surface and will not cause scratches.
- Wheel cleaner – Wheels are often the dirtiest part of the car, and the ones that one has to be the most careful of. Use a designated wheel cleaner that will remove brake dust and grime.
Instructions on exterior cleaning:
- Start by rinsing the car to wash off the loose dirt and other debris.
- Apply car wash soap with a microfiber mitt or sponge, starting at the top and working your way down.
- Use a separate cloth to clean the wheels.
- Thoroughly rinse the car with water.
- Dry your car using a clean microfiber towel to avoid leaving water spots.
2. Interior Cleaning
Of course, it’s just as important to clean the inside of your car. Let’s take a look at the cleaning of the various interior surfaces of your car.
- Seats: Vacuum dirt and debris if your seats are fabric. Leather seats may be cleaned and protected with a leather conditioner.
- Dashboard and console: Dust and clean these surfaces with a gentle all-purpose cleaner.
- Windows and mirrors: Use a glass cleaner that promises to be streak-free.
Products for cleaning the interior of the car:
Saafco’s antibacterial liquid wash is perfect for cleaning the console and dashboard and other hard interior surfaces of the car without the troublesome residual effects of aggressive cleaning chemicals.
You should obtain a specialised fabric or car upholstery cleaner that will protect the seat and carpet fabric from fading or other damage for long-term upkeep.
- The reverse order is more commonly applied for interior cleaning.
- Vacuum all seats, carpets, and other soft surfaces thoroughly.
- With a gentle cleaner, wipe down the dashboard, console, and doors.
- Use a glass cleaner that is free of ammonia for the windows.
- If you have leather or vinyl seats, use a conditioner for the seats.
3. Tire and wheel cleaning
Your wheels and tyres can get very dirty. Clean them regularly to avoid dirt and other road debris from damaging surfaces.
- Tire Cleaner: Strong tyre cleaners offer efficiency in removing built-up road grime and salts. Tire cleaners can be applied to the tyres to disinfect and loosen built-up grime. After cleaning to the required standards, a complete rinse should be done to avoid tyre cleaner streaks.
- Wheel Polish: After a wheel cleaning, a decent coat of wheel polish should be applied to give the wheels a glossy look, while also preventing corrosion.
Steps for Tire and Wheel Cleaning:
- Spray tire cleaner on the tires and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Use a tire brush to scrub away dirt and grime.
- Wash the wheels with water, and wipe them dry.
- Polish the wheels to give them a protective shine from future dirt.
Best Car Cleaning Products
When it comes to car cleaning, choosing the right products is key. Here are some recommended products that will help you achieve professional results:
- Saafco Solar Panel Cleaner Liquid: Not just for solar panels, this streak-free cleaner can also be used on windows and mirrors for a clear finish.
- Saafco Anti-Bacterial Dish Wash: A versatile dishwashing product that can be used to clean your car’s interior, including the dashboard and cup holders.
- Saafco 3x More Effective Liquid Dish Wash: For tough grease and dirt on car surfaces, this dishwashing liquid is strong yet gentle, perfect for cleaning stubborn spots inside and outside your vehicle.
Common Car Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Household Products: Household cleaners, including all-purpose cleaners, can be too harsh for your car’s surfaces and may cause damage to paint, upholstery, and plastic trim.
- Not Rinsing Properly: Always rinse your car thoroughly before applying soap or cleaners. This helps prevent dirt from scratching the surface during cleaning.
- Cleaning in Direct Sunlight: Try to avoid cleaning your car in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause products to dry too quickly and leave streaks or water spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my car?
Once every couple of weeks is a good rule of thumb, but those who live in dustier areas or face extreme weather should do it more often. It’s good to clean the inside of your car at least once a month to avoid buildup.
Can I use regular dish soap to wash my car?
While it may seem practical, regular dish soap is not a good idea. It can actually remove layers of the protective wax that your car’s paint needs. It is easier to buy soap specifically designed for car washes.
What’s the best way to clean leather seats?
For seats that are leather, mildly certifying a proper leather cleaner and conditioner is best. Be careful—harsh ily chemicals can dry the leather out and cause even more damage instead of repairing it. Conditioning regularly will help keep the leather supple and new-looking.
How do I prevent water spots on my car?
To avoid water spots on your car, it is a good idea to dry it off with a microfiber towel after drying it off. If spots are already on the car, a specialty water spot remover or a DIY mixture of water and vinegar should do the trick.