You’re probably here because car washes are typically costly, and you want to wash your own car independently. It’s a great way to save money, and doubles as a great workout when you have free time in your Island Residences condo. Follow the steps below to avoid any bumps, scratches, and other types of damage.
Wash and Prep the Wheels
It is important to always start with the wheels first because it is the dirtiest area of the car. If you clean the other areas first, you are liable to spread excess brake dust onto the clear car panels.
- Clean the wheels thoroughly to rinse off grime and loose brake dust
- Rub or spray a dedicated wheel cleaner and let it sit for a while
- Use a soft-bristle brush to wash the tires, spokes, and inner barrels
- Cleanse the wheels completely
Pre-Rinse the Car
Before putting any soap on the body, give the entire car a big rinse with the pressure washer or hose. This scrubs off loose dust, debris, and bird droppings that could have otherwise caused unnecessary damage during the contact wash.
Two-Bucket Contact Wash
Fill one bucket with the car wash soap and water mixture, and fill the other one with clean water and a grit guard.
- Soak the wash mitt in the sudsy bucket
- Wash the body in workable sections, starting from the cleaner top and working your way to the dirtier bottom
- Always use gentle, straight motions (Circular motions will result in visible swirl marks in the car)
- After a panel, wring and dunk your wash mitt out in the bucket with clean water to discharge trapped dirt and dust before dipping it back into the sudsy bucket.
Rinse Again Thoroughly
Work fast and do not allow the soap to dry on the body. Spray the car from the top down using a solid stream of water until all the residue and soap bubbles are entirely eliminated.
Air Dry the Car
Finally, leave the car to air dry to remove any remaining water spots from the car.
- Use a leaf blower or large, clean microfibre towels to fully dry the car
- Scrub down under the trunk, door jambs, and inside the fuel door to reveal any hidden water
- Put in a tire shine to the rubber sidewalls using foam applicators for a polished, flawless finish