Despite using our cars daily, and often multiple times a day, most of us rely on a periodical car wash at the gas station to keep our car clean. Those touchless car washes usually do the bare minimum and don’t quite clean your car the way you’d like. They also can get quite expensive if done frequently enough. With our cars being used so regularly, keeping them in top shape will change the driving experience drastically, and despite seeming like a grand ordeal, cleaning your car yourself is actually quick, economical, and thorough. Here are five simple things you need to have in your car wash kit, ensuring your car remains clean, organized, and looking as fresh as the day you bought it.
1. A bucket
Starting with the obvious, a bucket is definitely the number one thing you will need when washing your car on your own. Store all your car wash kit items in the bucket, and then use it when cleaning your car. Most of us already have a spare bucket or two lying around the house, so this can be as easy as checking the garage or shed.
2. Car Shampoo
While many things like this sound gimmicky, not all soap is created equal when it comes to your car. Car shampoos are specifically designed to clean your car and help it shine it’s best. Dish soap and other multi-purpose soaps are often too harsh and can strip away the wax that is
protecting the paint of your car. Finding a car cleaning product like a specific car shampoo is best, as they have been specially formulated to lift dirt while preserving the wax.
3. Mitt or Sponge
This eventually does come down to preference, as some people prefer one product over another. We usually recommend mitts over sponges, as sponges can trap small rocks and dirt particles inside, which can then create swirls or small scratches in your car’s paint. Enthusiasts love lambswool wash mitts, as they are easy to rinse, ultra-soft, and hold a lot of soap and water.
These types of mitts are slightly more expensive, but in the long run, they pay off. If you do decide to go the sponge route, you can always purchase a grit guard, which is like a screen that sits in your soap bucket, sieving out the rocks and particles.
4. Wheel Brush
The tires and rims of our cars take the worst beating after continuous use, especially in areas where the weather is constantly changing. A wheel brush will make a big difference in the shine of your car, and it will help preserve the integrity of your wheels, hubcaps, and rims as well. You can also buy a cleaning solution designed for wheels that will cut through the layers of sticky dust and dirt. Make sure that the cleaner you buy matches the finish of your wheels, as some aren’t formulated for chrome or painted rims.
5. Microfiber Towels
Once your car has been scrubbed and washed clean, you’ll need to dry it off to ensure there are no unsightly watermarks left. For a spot-free cleaning, microfiber towels work perfectly. They are super soft and absorbent, and they won’t scratch the surface. House or bath towels should be avoided as they often contain polyester fibers that can introduce blemishes into your car’s finish.
While it may seem like you need to purchase a few things, these items are all long-lasting, and a little goes a long way when using car washing substances and materials. Washing your own car doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Using this guide as a shopping list for the next time you’re looking to pick up things for your car will help you eliminate confusion or extra expenditure. What makes things even better is that this guide mentions products that you likely already have in your home!
Washing your own car doesn’t just eliminate expenditure, but it ensures you are giving your car the best care possible, extending its lifespan and resale value. If you’re on the market for a new car, check out Thorncrest Ford, your Toronto Ford Dealer.
