Today, we're diving into the top 10 most common car wash mistakes that could be damaging your vehicle’s finish, even if you’re just trying to keep it clean. These might seem like small errors, but they can lead to scratches, swirls, and other long-term issues with your paintwork. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can keep your car looking as polished and pristine as possible. So, grab your mitts, settle in, and let’s get started with these essential car wash tips!
Mistake 1: Cleaning the Bottom First
The bottom of the car collects the most dirt and grime, so starting here can spread contaminants across cleaner surfaces. Always start with the upper portions and use a separate mitt for the lower portions to avoid spreading dirt that can cause scratches.
Mistake 2: Reusing Dropped Towels or Mitts
If a mitt or towel hits the ground, it's best to grab a clean one. The ground harbors dirt, sand, and debris that can scratch the paintwork if reused on the car.
Mistake 3: Skipping the Pre-Wash
A pre-wash is essential to remove dirt before touching the car. Use a snow foam or pre-wash spray to break down and remove most of the dirt, then rinse it off with a pressure washer to reduce the risk of scratching.
Mistake 4: Letting Liquids Dry on the Car
Never let water or cleaning products dry on the car, especially in direct sunlight. Drying can cause watermarks and leave residues that may require expensive paint correction to remove.
Mistake 5: Using Paper Towels, Rags, or Tissues
Paper towels and other household materials are not suitable for your car’s paint. Instead, invest in microfiber cloths, which are designed to trap dirt and prevent scratches. Tino’s exterior cloth, gloss cloth, and scrub pad are perfect for different detailing tasks.
Mistake 6: Wiping with a Dry Microfiber Cloth
A dry microfiber on dry paint can lead to swirl marks. Always apply a detailing spray to the cloth or car to add lubrication, making it safer and more effective to wipe the surface.
Mistake 7: Using Slippery Products on Pedals, Steering Wheel, or Gear Shifter
Avoid using oily or slippery products on areas where grip is essential, such as the pedals or steering wheel. Tino's interior detailer, which leaves a factory-fresh finish without the slipperiness, is ideal for these surfaces.
Mistake 8: Not Cleaning Your Equipment
Dirty mitts, microfibers, and brushes will only transfer dirt back onto your car. After each use, clean your mitts, wash microfibers at 40°C or lower, and wash brushes with an all-purpose cleaner.
Mistake 9: Being Too Aggressive with Soft Top Roofs
For soft tops, avoid using pressure washers at close range and steer clear of stiff brushes. A soft-bristled brush will safely clean without damaging the material.
Mistake 10: Letting the Vacuum Hose Touch the Car
Vacuum hoses collect dirt from the ground, so letting them touch the car can add dirt and scratch the surface. Keep the hose off the ground by holding it between your legs while vacuuming.