Clean the Car (like a pro)

The weather is warmer – the evenings are longer. The car has been ignored so far this year and it’s calling you to clean it. You’ve done it a thousand times – but…

Here are 10 things You Might Not Have Considered When Cleaning Your Car:

01 | Park your car out of direct sunlight. 

Having the car in the shade will prevent quick drying and avoid dried on water spots or streaks. 

Pro tip: always avoid parking your car under a tree if you can – bird poo is corrosive to paintwork!

02 | It’s all in the prep

If you live in London, your car’s paintwork may have 'industrial fallout'—pollutants and airborne particles bonded to the surface. Before washing, rinse all over with clean water or snow foam, then apply a fallout remover to the bodywork and wheels.

03 | Two-Bucket Method
One bucket with shampoo, one with clean water, each with separate clean sponges—this reduces paintwork scratches from grit transfer. Pro tip: use buckets with a grit guard.

04 | Start with Wheels, Not Paintwork
Cleaning wheels first prevents grime splashing onto freshly cleaned paintwork.

Pro tip: Don’t Forget Door Seals. Dirt in door seals causes rubber deterioration—wiping regularly extends their life.

05 | Inside Windows Matter
Don’t forget to clean interior glass thoroughly too; it reduces glare and enhances visibility, especially at night.

06 | Headlights

Like paintwork, the outer surface of your headlights may be coated in industrial fallout. Ensure they’re properly cleaned and if possible use a dedicated headlight cleaner with a drill to power through. 

07 | Remember the Air Vents
Dusty air vents circulate allergens; a quick vacuum or soft brush and dust out keeps recycled air fresh and healthy.

08 | Use a Dedicated Cloth for Each Task
Separate cloths for windows, body, and wheels prevent contamination and streaks.

09 | Polish Isn't Just for Shine
Wax or polish protects your car’s paint from UV rays and environmental pollutants, prolonging its lifespan.

10 | Keep the tool kit clean

Clean your equipment and cloths immediately and thoroughly afterwards, to keep them in good condition and so they’re ready to use right away next time. See this as part of the job. 

Pro tip: use a drying towel not a chamois leather. Chamois are hard to keep in good condition and nowhere near as absorbent as a drying towel, which will halve the time you spend drying the car.