With the summer holidays just around the corner, you might be washing your car more often and while you’re probably thinking you’re doing it all right, you might be in for a surprise.
Here are 5 things common mistakes people do when washing their cars:
1. USING A SPONGE
When it comes to washing cars, you should really be using a wash mitt instead of a sponge. Wash mitts don’t have a flat surface and they’re much kinder to your paintwork. Sponges on the contrary have a flat surface and small bits of grit often get stuck. Result: you rub it all over your paintwork and are left with awful swirl marks.
2. THE ‘ONE BUCKET’ SPONGE
Ideally you should really be using two buckets: a wash bucket with soap and another to rinse. Otherwise your wash mitt will get very dirty very quickly, and – most importantly – full of grit.
3. USING DISH WASHING LIQUID
Sure, it will clean your car but what is the actual purpose for dishwashing liquid? Getting rid of grease! So if you decide to wash your car with dishwashing liquid, remember that it’ll also strip off any wax that has been previously applied to your car.
4. NEVER WAXING
Waxing isn’t just about giving your paintwork a satisfying shine, it’ll also add an extra protective layer on top of the clear coat. So it’s worth going through that little extra effort of waxing your car.
5. NOT CLEANING ‘THE UNSEENABLE’
Did you know it’s worth spending a little extra time cleaning under the wheel arches? If you don’t, mud can build up, which leads to moisture and eventually rust.
If you are one of the people that do one or more of the above, you should probably consider changing your car washing habits. Apply the above 5 tips and your car should live a long and happy, shiny life!