Detailing How-tos

At Car Care Depot, we believe that great results come from the right products—and the right techniques. Our Detailing How-Tos section is your go-to guide for learning how to clean, protect, and enhance every part of your vehicle, inside and out.

How to Properly Wash Your Car: A Step-by-Step Exterior Detailing Guide

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional detailer, properly washing your vehicle’s exterior is the foundation of good car care. Done right, it helps maintain your paintwork, protects your investment, and leaves your ride looking its absolute best.

Here’s a professional, step-by-step guide to washing your vehicle’s exterior safely and effectively:

Step 1: Move the Vehicle Out of Direct Sunlight
Always start in the shade or a cool area. Sunlight can dry water and soap too quickly, leaving behind unsightly water spots and streaks before you’ve even started.

Step 2: Initial Rinse
Use a hose or pressure washer to rinse the vehicle from top to bottom. This loosens and removes loose dirt and grime to minimize scratching during contact washing.

Step 3: Apply Pre-Wash Foam or Degreaser
Use a quality foam or degreaser, especially on lower panels, wheel arches, and bug-covered front ends. Let it dwell for 2–4 minutes (but do not let it dry), allowing contaminants to break down before rinsing.

Step 4: Rinse Again
Thoroughly rinse off the foam or degreaser, lifting away the loosened dirt without scrubbing the paint.

Step 5: Foam the Entire Car
Use a foam cannon or sprayer to blanket the car in shampoo. This layer acts as lubrication for the contact wash and reduces swirl marks.

Step 6: Contact Wash
Using the two-bucket method (one with clean soap, one with rinse water) and a soft microfiber mitt, gently wash the car from top to bottom in straight lines. Avoid circular motions that may cause micro-scratches.

Step 7: Final Rinse
Rinse off all soap and suds, again working from top to bottom. Make sure no residue is left behind.

Step 8: Apply Detail Spray or Rinse Aid
While the surface is still wet, apply a detailing spray or rinse aid. These products boost gloss, improve water sheeting, and make drying safer.

Step 9: Dry Thoroughly
Use premium microfiber drying towels or a dedicated air blower to dry the vehicle without leaving streaks or scratches. Always pat dry or glide the towel gently over the surface.

Final Tips:

Always use separate mitts for wheels and paintwork.
Wash your towels and mitts after every use.
Avoid washing in windy, dusty environments.
Apply wax or sealant every few months for added protection.

Note: This guide is general advice only, please ensure proper research on technique, products and equipment is undertaken prior to work commencement.

Proper Car Washing: A Detailed Step-by-Step Interior Guide

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional detailer, maintaining your vehicle’s interior is just as important as keeping the outside clean. A well-detailed cabin not only enhances your driving experience but also preserves your vehicle’s value and comfort.

Here’s a professional, step-by-step guide to cleaning your vehicle’s interior thoroughly and safely:

Step 1: Remove Personal Items and Rubbish
Clear out all personal belongings and rubbish from the cabin, glove box, center console, door pockets, and boot. This prepares the space for a thorough clean without obstructions.

Step 2: Vacuum Thoroughly
Using a vacuum with crevice tools, vacuum seats, carpets, floor mats, and all hard-to-reach areas like under the seats, between cushions, and along seams. Always work top to bottom—start with the seats and finish with the floor.

Step 3: Clean Floor Mats Separately
Take out the mats and shake off debris. Use an all-purpose cleaner and a stiff brush to scrub rubber mats. For carpet mats, shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Let them dry completely before putting them back.

Step 4: Wipe Down Surfaces
Using a soft microfiber cloth and a suitable interior cleaner, wipe down the dashboard, center console, door panels, steering wheel, and any hard plastic or vinyl surfaces. For tight spaces and vents, use a soft detailing brush.

Step 5: Clean Interior Glass
Spray an automotive glass cleaner onto a clean microfiber towel (not directly on the glass) and wipe interior windows and mirrors in a circular motion, then finish with a dry towel to prevent streaks.

Step 6: Clean Seats

Leather Seats: Use a pH-neutral leather cleaner and a soft brush or cloth. Wipe gently and condition the leather afterward to prevent drying or cracking.
Cloth Seats: Use a fabric cleaner or extractor to lift stains and odors. Lightly scrub and blot with a clean towel.

Step 7: Clean Crevices and Vents
Use compressed air or a detailing brush to remove dust from air vents, seams, buttons, and tight spaces. Follow with a microfiber towel to capture any loose debris.

Step 8: Deodorize the Cabin
Use a fabric-safe deodorizer or interior scent spray. For a deeper treatment, consider using an ozone generator or cabin air bomb for odor removal.

Step 9: Final Touches
Replace clean mats, check for any missed spots, and give a final wipe-down to shiny surfaces like infotainment screens and chrome trims using a screen-safe cleaner.