- merseyvalet
Washing Your Car - Why and how
One of the main steps we do at MerseyValet - Liverpool mobile car valeting is to wash your car. There are many benefits to this which we will explain and also a quick breakdown of safe washing methods so you can try it yourself.
Why?
There are several benefits to washing your car regularly:
Protects the paint: Washing your car regularly helps to remove dirt, grime, and other debris that can damage the paint. Over time, these contaminants can cause the paint to fade or become dull. Washing your car removes these contaminants and can help to keep the paint looking shiny and new.
Improves visibility: A dirty car can make it difficult to see out of the windows, especially in bright sunlight. Washing the car helps to remove dirt, grime, and other debris from the windows, which can improve visibility and make it safer to drive.
Increases resale value: A clean, well-maintained car is more likely to sell for a higher price than a dirty, poorly-maintained one. Even if you're not planning on selling your car anytime soon, keeping it clean can help to maintain its value.
Helps with rust protection: If you live in an area with a lot of salt on the roads in winter, It can be a big risk to allow salt and debris accumulate on your car, as it can start to rust your car. Washing your car regularly can help to remove salt and other debris, which can help to protect the car from rust and other forms of corrosion.
Helps to maintain the car's overall condition: Regularly washing your car is a good way to keep an eye on its overall condition. As you wash your car, you may notice any new dings, scratches, or other issues that need to be addressed, which can help you to take care of problems before they become serious.
Overall, regular washing of your car is a small investment that can have big returns in terms of maintaining the look and value of your vehicle.
The convenience of a mobile valeting service means that you can have all of these benefits without lifting a finger but if you would like to try your hand at washing your own car then carry on reading.
How?
Washing your car can be a simple and satisfying task, but it's important to do it safely to avoid damaging your car's paint or causing injury. Here are a few tips for safely washing your car:
Use a high-quality car wash soap: Not all soaps are created equal, and using the wrong type of soap can strip away the wax or clear coat on your car's paint. Look for a car wash soap specifically formulated for use on cars, and avoid using household detergents, which can be harsh and damaging.
Use a microfibre or a clean wash mitt: A microfiber wash mitt or a clean wash mitt can help to remove dirt and grime without scratching the paint. Be sure to rinse the mitt or washcloth frequently to remove dirt, and avoid using any sponges that may have rough surfaces that can scratch the paint.
Start at the top and work your way down: When washing your car, start at the top and work your way down. This helps to prevent dirty water from running down the car and re-soiling areas that have already been cleaned.
Rinse thoroughly before washing: Before you begin washing your car, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove loose dirt and debris. This can help to prevent scratches caused by dirt particles rubbing against the paint as you wash. As an extra step you can apply a pre-wash chemical before performing a pre rinse.
Avoid washing in direct sunlight: Washing your car in direct sunlight can cause the soap to dry too quickly, which can leave water spots on the paint. It's best to wash your car in the shade or on an overcast day to avoid this problem. Working quickly to rinse off any shampoo and drying any residual water straight away if working in direct sunlight is unavoidable.
Rinse thoroughly after washing: After washing it is important to remove and soap suds and residual dirt. You can do this with a pressure washer, garden hose or simply a bucket of water poured over your car.
Dry your car: After washing, it's important to dry off your car thoroughly to prevent water spots. Use a chamois, a microfibre towel, or a leaf blower on low speed to dry off the car, being careful not to leave any scratches or damage. The best option here would be a leaf blower as it is touchless, then a microfibre drying towel, then a chamois leather. Although chamois leathers are the 'go to' choice for most people, they are renowned for causing damage to your paintwork.
Be careful with high pressure washers: Though high pressure washers can be a quick way to clean a car, they can also easily cause damage. If you must use a pressure washer, be sure to use it on the lowest setting and hold it far away from the car to avoid causing damage.
By following these tips, you can safely wash your car and keep it looking great.