Owning a car is more than just transportation, it’s an expression of pride, passion, and presentation. While professional detailing services may cost thousands, don’t worry yet. With the proper techniques and tools in your driveway you can give your ride the showroom-ready shine it needs to look its best right at home.
Why DIY Car Detailing Is Worth It
Before going into DIY car detailing, it can be tempting to wonder whether or not it is worth it. DIY detailing saves you money as professional detailing typically costs several hundred dollars per session. Also, DIY detailing gives you full control over the products and methods used. This ensures no shortcuts are taken. Finally it’s incredibly gratifying when your hard work shows its results in its brilliance under the sun.
Assemble Your Arsenal
To achieve professional-grade results when detailing a car at home, the right tools of the trade will be required, such as:
- Microfiber towels (and plenty of them).
- A quality car wash soap (not dishwashing detergent, it’s no longer 1995)
- Two buckets (one with soapy water, one with clean water for rinsing)
- Foam applicator or mitt
- Wax and polish suitable for your car’s finish
- Wheel cleaner and a sturdy tire brush
- A vacuum, interior cleaner, and detailing brushes for the cabin
Invest in higher-quality detail supplies, because the difference they make is worth every penny.
Wash, Rinse and Repeat
It all starts with this step – an effective wash. Begin by hosing down your car to remove loose dirt that might scratch during scrubs. Using the two-bucket method (one bucket contains soapy water for washing with a mitt or sponge, and the second holds clean rinsing water), start washing. Work from top down since gravity’s got your back, dirt will naturally settle at the bottom. Rinse thoroughly using the second bucket before using microfiber towels for drying (and they will prevent water spots).
Your Wheels and Tires Deserve Attention
If the tires and rims of your car seem like afterthoughts, think again. Smudgy wheels can mar the look of an otherwise impeccable car. For optimal results use a dedicated wheel cleaner with brush attachment to work off grime and brake dust before polishing with tire protectant spray to leave them looking brand new.
Address the Interior
A car’s interior should reflect its impeccable exterior. No one wants to sit inside one that smells of gym socks. Vacuum every corner, clean upholstery and wipe down dashboard and door panels using an interior cleaner before cleaning out the cup holders as they are crumb traps. Use small brushes for cleaning vents and crevices and add an air freshener as a final touch.
Shine and Protect
Once the exterior has been cleaned, it’s time to go the extra mile and add shine and protection with wax or polish. Work small sections at a time using circular motions before buffing with a microfiber towel until you have buff away all traces. Not only will this add extra shine, but it will also shield it from harsh elements like UV rays and dust.
Windows for the Win
Don’t neglect your windows. Use a streak-free glass cleaner, wiping them down with a microfiber cloth, paying special attention to edges that may have been missed during previous cleaning sessions. Clean windows inside and out provide maximum visibility while giving your car that polished appearance.
Final Touches
Take a step back and assess your work. Does anything look a bit off? Don’t be reluctant to go over any area that seems less-than-perfect. Paying close attention to details is extremely important.
Conclusion
DIY car detailing at home can be both cost-effective and gratifying. By taking control of its care yourself, DIY detailing puts you in charge. By investing time, effort, and carefully selected products into maintaining and improving the value of your ride, you can increase its lifespan while simultaneously making you proud to cruise in something that shines both inside and out. After all, it is your ride, so treat it like royalty to enjoy years of glowing satisfaction.
