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GUIDE — How to Wash a Car (Pro Workflow)

1. Pre-wash / Rinse

Purpose: Remove loose grit before touching the paint to avoid swirls.
How: Use a pressure rinse from top → bottom, focusing on lower panels and wheel arches.

Optional: Spray a pre-wash or bug/tar remover on dirty areas.
Let it dwell for 2–4 minutes (never let it dry), then rinse.

2. Snow Foam (Optional but Recommended)

Mix: Follow label (commonly 1:5–1:10 in the foam cannon bottle — check product instructions).
Apply: Blanket the car, let it dwell for 3–5 minutes in shade (do not let it dry).
Rinse thoroughly: This softens bonded grime and further reduces wash-marring.

3. Contact Wash (Shampoo)

Tools:

  • Two buckets (wash + rinse) with grit guards

  • Microfiber wash mitt

  • Soft brushes for badges/crevices

Mix: Use shampoo per label (often ~1–2 oz per 10 L — check product instructions).

Method:

  • Wash in straight lines, top → bottom

  • Reload mitt frequently

  • Wheels last (or use a dedicated wheel kit)

Pro Tip: Keep each panel wet; re-foam or add slickness if it starts drying.

4. Rinse & Dry

Final Rinse: Use low-pressure “sheeting” flow to pull water off panels.
Drying Methods:

  • Contactless blower (if available)

  • Microfiber drying towel (dab/drag, avoid circular motions)

Spot Control: Use a drying aid or spray sealant to add slickness and reduce water spots.

5. Ceramic Coat / Sealant / Wax

Prep for Ceramic Coating:

  1. Iron remover (watch for the bleeding effect), then rinse.

  2. Clay bar with clay lube (only if needed), then wipe.

  3. (Optional) Polish to remove swirls for best gloss and bonding.

Application:

  • Apply panel by panel, very thin.

  • Level high-spots according to product’s flash time.

Curing: Keep the car dry and out of the sun per label (commonly 12–24 hours).

Easier Alternative: Apply a spray sealant after drying for quick protection (lasts weeks to months).

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Washing in direct sun or letting chemicals dry on paint.

  • Using a one-bucket method or old sponges that trap grit.

  • Drying with bathroom towels or chamois (they can mar the finish).

  • Applying ceramic on contaminated or oily paint (it won’t bond well).