Pitfall 1: Washing your car with laundry detergent or dish soap
When it comes to washing a car, using only water is definitely not enough, so cleaning agents are essential. The most commonly used cleaning agents in every household are undoubtedly laundry detergent and dish soap, so it’s not uncommon for people to use them to wash their cars.
However, this practice is equivalent to accelerating the aging of your vehicle. The cleaning components in laundry detergent are generally sulfonic acids, which, when applied to the paint surface for a long time, can easily cause the paint to whiten and lose its original luster. Moreover, most laundry detergents are alkaline, and long-term use will accelerate the aging of rubber parts, tires, and windows.
Correct approach: Purchase a dedicated car wash liquid or the currently popular concentrated car wash wax from a reputable auto parts store or online retailer. This will not only remove surface stains but also protect the car’s paint.
Pitfall 2: Wiping the car body with an ordinary rag
Many car owners believe that since the car body is made of steel, the paint shouldn’t be easily scratched. This is a big mistake. Although the paint itself is not easily scratched, the glossy layer on the surface is very fragile, and even small sand and stones can easily leave fine scratches on the surface. These scratches not only affect the appearance but also accelerate paint aging. Therefore, the rag used to wipe the car body is very important, and you shouldn’t just grab any rag from home and start wiping.
Correct approach: Purchase a dedicated car wash towel with finer fibers and a softer texture. Microfiber towels have a high fiber density, strong absorption capacity, and a longer lifespan than ordinary towels. They remain unchanged even after repeated washing, and with proper drying after use, they won’t mold, rot, or develop odors. Furthermore, it’s best to use different towels for different purposes. This will not only ensure that the paint surface is not damaged but also allow for more effective cleaning of both the interior and exterior of the car.
Pitfall 3: Washing your car too frequently for cleanliness
Many car owners enjoy the fun of washing their own cars, and feel a great sense of accomplishment looking at the results of their labor. Since car washing is so easy and enjoyable, they might think, “Why not wash it more often?”
Little do they know, this also presents a problem. Washing your car too frequently may keep the paint surface clean in the short term, but it can actually accelerate paint oxidation, leading to dullness and loss of shine.
The correct approach: Generally, washing your car once a week is sufficient. For light dust, a feather duster or soft mop can be used for cleaning. However, if the car is exposed to heavy dust, mud, or heavy rain, the owner should wash the vehicle as soon as possible.
For those who enjoy washing their own cars, here’s a recommendation: a battery operated car washer high pressure pump.