What To Know About Hand Washing Your Car

Washing your car by hand isn't just a task. It's a practical way to maintain the appearance of your vehicle and its condition. While it might seem like a straightforward process, there are crucial things to know to prevent accidental damage to your car's finish. Kidney Cars is here to help!

Choosing the right products

When it comes to washing your car, not all cleaning products are created equal. 
Don't: Use household items like glass cleaner, dishwashing detergent, or hand soap, as they can strip away the protective wax on your car's paint. 
Use: A mild car wash product specifically designed for automotive paint. Use a wool mitt or a large, natural sponge for application. For stubborn substances like road tar, rubber, and grease, consider using a specialized cleaner and a non-abrasive cloth for these tougher spots.

Tackling tires and wheels

Tires and wheels accumulate brake dust, sand, and debris that can harm your car's finish. Choose a cleaner compatible with your wheel finish, whether it's chrome, clear coat, or paint. Be sure to use a separate cloth or sponge for these areas.

Washing

Washing a car takes more skill than you’d think!
Don’t: Moving the sponge in circular patterns, as this can leave swirl marks or scratches on your car's paint.
Do: move your sponge or cloth lengthwise across the hood and body. If your sponge falls on the ground, thoroughly rinse it to prevent small particles from scratching the paint. Wash your car in the shade or during cooler times to prevent water and soap from drying too quickly, making the cleaning process more challenging. Rinse the entire car before starting to wash, focusing on one area at a time to ensure thorough cleaning without letting the soap dry. Lather up the car wash cleaner to create plenty of suds for lubrication. Rinse your sponge often and use a separate bucket to keep debris out of the soapy water.

Car drying

Don’t: Let your car air dry or drive it around the block, as this can leave watermarks from hard water minerals. Also, steer clear of using non-soft materials or abrasive towels, as they can cause hairline scratches on the paint.
Do: Choose soft, terry towels or chamois for drying. Blot the water off instead of rubbing the towel over the paint. Use a soft squeegee to speed up the process, ensuring the rubber is soft and pliable to avoid scratches.

Make your car a Kidney Car

By following these simple guidelines, you can turn car washing into a satisfying and effective routine that keeps your vehicle looking its best. But, if you’re ready for a new car to fawn over, donate to Kidney Cars. You’ll be making a difference for kidney patients while earning a tax credit!