Anyone with a passion for cars understands that keeping the exterior of a car clean entails so much more than just a weekly wash. Properly cleaning a car not only improves its aesthetics but also protects your investment. With the right products, car owners can achieve a showroom shine without taking their vehicles to professional detailers every other week. In this article, we look at some of the must-have cleaning supplies every car owner should have at their disposal.
Car Shampoo
A quality car shampoo is an essential part of an automotive cleaning toolkit. Car shampoos are much more gentle than household soaps and can clean without removing protective waxes. Can they effectively remove dirt and grime? Yes. They are gentle and do not damage the paintwork. Look for pH-balanced shampoos when selecting your product; they are gentle on all surfaces and will not damage the car’s finish.
Microfibre Cloths
You can never have enough microfibre cloths for car cleaning. They are soft and will not scratch the surface of your car. They are also very absorbent and hence very good for drying and polishing. Different types of these cloths can be found in online stores like Bulkbuys, so you can use the right types to rub different parts of your car for the best results: one for the body, another for the windows, and a separate one for the wheels.
Wheel Cleaner
Brake dust and road grime tend to build up on wheels and can be difficult to remove. This is where having a dedicated wheel cleaner comes in handy. These residues can be tough to remove, and these cleaners are designed to dissolve stubborn contaminants while being gentle on the wheel finish. You must choose a product that works with the type of wheels on your vehicle, as chrome, alloy, and painted wheels all require different products.
Glass Cleaner
A clear view is important to drive safely, so a good-quality glass cleaner is necessary. Formulated to tackle the haze and streaks found on automotive glass, these cleaners leave a crystal-clear finish. What is more, they are also safe for tinted windows. When the cleaner is used with a microfibre cloth, it helps avoid any streaks, leaving windows clean.
Wax and Sealants
These provide an additional layer of protection against the elements like dirt, water, and sunlight. A car wax is designed to add shine. Sealants provide protection and generally last longer. They form a durable bond with the surface of the paint. Drivers have the option to opt for natural waxes for the warm glow they provide or synthetic waxes for lengthy protection.
Interior Cleaner
Just like the exterior of a vehicle, the interior also needs some love. A multi-surface interior cleaner works on multiple surfaces and is used on dashboards, exterior and interior trims, and upholstery. These cleaners remove dust, stains, and odours without leaving residues. For leather interiors, a soft leather cleaner and conditioner should be used to keep leather plump, soft, and free from cracks.
Tire Shine
A car’s tires are a crucial part of the general aesthetics of a vehicle. Tire shine products restore the deep black appearance, providing that freshly detailed appearance. You can find them as either water-based or solvent-based. While water-based products are safe for the environment and would give the wood a natural shine, solvent-based products would give more of a glossy look. These also protect tires when applied to them and the rest of the surface.
Detailing Brushes
Detailing brushes are your best friend for cleaning crevices during a car wash. They are available in different sizes and edges and can be used to clean the vent, crevices, and small parts. These are soft-bristled brushes that take debris and dirt out without scratching. With this set of brushes, you can have all the nooks and crannies covered.
Clay Bar
The clay bar is a tool to remove embedded contaminants in the paint. No matter how much you wash it, some portions are stuck to the body and affect its slickness. A clay bar with lubricant can eliminate these particles and create a smooth surface. This is a critical step before waxing or sealing.
Conclusion
Keeping a car clean is not only for aesthetic purposes. It helps maintain the state of the car, which helps fuel your driving pleasure. Using the right automotive tools and items, vehicle owners can keep their cars in prime condition. Purchasing good cleaning materials will cost a bit more upfront, but you will eventually get your savings. Every car enthusiast would do well to invest their time and energy; the rewards make it all worthwhile.
About the Author
