Car washing is an important task in maintaining the appearance and value of your vehicle. Unfortunately, this is often done incorrectly, which can lead to damage to the paintwork and other problems. In this guide we want to show you step by step how to wash your car properly to keep it in perfect condition and looking new for longer.
The right preparation for washing the car
Before you start washing the car, it is important to prepare yourself thoroughly for the washing process to ensure that the result is satisfactory.
- Choose a suitable day for washing the car, preferably a sunny day, for example a Sunday. Avoid washing the car in direct sunlight as this increases the risk of paint damage.
- Clean the inside of the car before you start the actual washing process. Remove debris, dust, and dirt from seats, carpets, and fixtures. It is best to use a vacuum cleaner and a damp cloth.
- Remove coarse soiling such as dirt, leaves and stones from the car before you start the actual washing process. It is best to use a broom or a brush for this.
- Choose the right detergent. There are special car washes that are particularly gentle on the paintwork. Avoid using normal washing-up liquid or even soap, as these can attack the paintwork.
- Use a soft washing brush or microfiber cloth to clean the car. Apply the detergent to the brush or cloth and rub gently over the body.
- Work your way from top to bottom and front to back to ensure you thoroughly clean every spot of the car.
- Do not use pointed or hard objects that can damage the paint.
Attention: In Switzerland there is no general rule prohibiting washing cars on Sundays. However, there are certain laws and regulations that may apply in individual areas, such as noise abatement laws and water resource protection laws.
Cleaning the inside of the car – this is the best way to proceed when cleaning the interior
Car interior cleaning is an important part of car care and maintenance. A neglected interior can not only smell bad, but also harm health and reduce the value of the car.
First, you should remove all items that are stored in the car and clean them thoroughly if necessary. This includes Papers, rubbish, drink bottles and other items.
We then recommend vacuuming the interior thoroughly to remove dust and dirt. It is best to use a hand-held vacuum cleaner or a powerful one car vacuum cleaner.
To clean the seats, armrests and door panels, you can use a damp cloth wiped with a mild detergent is moistened. However, avoid applying too much moisture as this can lead to mold growth.
We recommend special leather care products for cleaning leather upholstery. Here, too, it is important not to apply too much moisture and to let the upholstery dry thoroughly.
The exterior washing process – how to thoroughly clean your car
- Usage of the car: Before you start washing and cleaning the car, it is important to wet the car thoroughly. It is best to use a garden hose or a spray bottle. Wetting loosens coarse dirt and makes it easier to clean the car.
- Cleaning the car with the washing brush: Use a soft washing brush or a microfiber cloth to clean the car. Apply the detergent to the brush or cloth and rub gently over the body. Work your way from top to bottom and front to back.
- Rinse the car: After cleaning the car, it is important to rinse the car thoroughly. Wet the car again with clean water to remove any detergent residue.
- Drying the car: Finally, dry the car with a clean, soft cloth or microfiber cloth. Avoid polishing the car as there is a risk of scratches
Car wash tips and tricks
- Use special cleaners for rims, discs and tires to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Avoid scratches by using soft washing brushes and not using hard cleaning agents.
- Maintain the car after washing, e.g. by applying polish and wax to achieve a shiny result and increase the protection of the paintwork.
Polishing the car after washing – this is how you complete the care
After washing your car, it is important to polish it properly as well. This will help remove scratches and signs of oxidation and give the car a shiny look.
To carry out the car polish, it is advisable to use a special polishing sponge or a polishing pad to apply the polish evenly. Choose a polish that matches your vehicle, such as a painted metal polish or a clear coat polish.
Apply the polish in a circular motion, working your way from top to bottom. Then wipe off the excess polish with a clean, dry cloth. It is important to ensure that the car is dry before polishing and also that no moisture gets on the polish as this can cause stains.
Regular car polish will help maintain your car's appearance and increase its value.
The most important points about car washing at a glance
In summary, car washing is an important part of car care. To keep your car clean and well cared for, you should wash it regularly. This includes wetting the car, cleaning with the washing brush, rinsing and drying. Interior care should not be neglected either.
Recommendations for regular maintenance and care of the car are:
- the use of special cleaners for rims, discs and tires
- avoiding scratches caused by improper washing methods
- the care of the car after washing, e.g. polish and wax
There are many resources and literature for advanced techniques and technologies in car washing. It pays to educate yourself and try new methods to get the best possible result.