This is an easy step to step guide to cleaning a car. These easy to follow steps are a sure way to have your car sparkling in a small amount of time. For best results, wash your car in a shady spot or on a cloudy day to avoid leaving spots as the water evaporates.
Assemble the cleaning supplies and organize them near you so you know where everything is.
Park your car in a shady area and allow the paint to cool, if possible.
Pour some soap into a bucket with the hose running until the water gets soapy and bubbly. Use soap designed for car washing. Other detergents will wash the wax off as well.
Rinse off the car to remove any loose dirt, dust or grime.
Place a soft cloth into the soapy water and begin to wipe down the car in small sections. Start at the top and work your way to the bottom.
Always rinse your wash cloth or sponge with the hose before putting it back into the soapy water.
Rinse the car with a hose and clean water after you wipe down a section.
Clean the wheels with a small rag and the soapy water.
Rinse the wheels and remove all of the soap.
Dry the car with a cloth.
Apply a polish to a clean buffer pad. This ensures that the polish will scrub off the oxidation that wax cannot remove.
Buff the entire car and then apply wax by hand. (It is a good idea to get a high quality wax for a good gloss.)
Apply tire shine and be careful to avoid overspray.
Use a trim preservative like Back-to-Black and apply to your trim.
Cleaning the Inside
Vacuum all floor carpets, seats, and use a narrow end extension to get into the cracks.
Clean the windows with non-ammonia glass cleaner and a dry soft cloth. Roll each window down a little to reach the "muck" at the top. Use crumpled newspapers to polish the glass when it's dry.
Wipe the dashboard, steering wheel, and interior trim with a damp cloth or mild cleaner. It may be useful to use a cotton swab to be able to reach small spaces such as coin holes.
Tips
To clean windows without any expensive cleaning agents, use a solution of half water and half vinegar and wipe windows down with newspaper. This will leave your windows with a streak free shine. You may also use a paper coffee filter. This does not streak your windows.
To help keep your car clean, use little trash bags that hang on the back of your chair.
