My husband and I are passionate about keeping our cars in pristine condition. Once a year,
we treat our vehicles to professional detailing sessions...full cleaning of the exterior and interior including every nook and cranny.
However, we must admit that this luxury comes at a steep price. Professional detailing can range from $150 to $300 or more,
depending on the service level and vehicle condition.
To save money, now and then we "detail" our vehicles ourselves. It's not as good as the pros, but it helps keep our cars looking as new as possible.
Here's how to do it. However, before I begin, be sure to check with your city to determine if they allow self-washing your car so you are aware of any restrictions that may apply.
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, ensure you have the necessary supplies:
Two buckets (one for soapy water, one for
rinsing)Car wash soapMicrofiber wash mittsMicrofiber
towelsClay bar kitCar polishCar wax or sealantVacuum cleaner with attachmentsInterior
cleanerBrushes for detailing (soft for interior, stiffer for tires and mats) 2. Start with the Exterior
Wash and Dry: Begin by rinsing your car thoroughly to remove loose dirt. Use the two-bucket method to avoid scratching the paint: one bucket with soapy water and one with clean water for
rinsing your wash mitt. Wash the car from top to bottom. Then rinse and dry it using microfiber towels.
Clay Bar Treatment: This step removes embedded contaminants that regular washing can't. Lubricate the surface with a spray detailer, then gently rub the clay bar over the paint. Wipe off any residue with a microfiber towel. Polish: Using a car polish, apply it to the paintwork to remove minor imperfections and enhance gloss. This step can be done by hand or with a dual-action polisher.
Protect: Apply a coat of wax or a paint sealant to protect the paint and give it a deep shine. Follow the
product instructions for the best results.
3. Focus on the Interior
Vacuum Thoroughly: Remove floor mats and vacuum the seats, carpets, and
mats. Use the attachments to get into the crevices and under the seats.
Clean and Condition: Use an appropriate cleaner for your car's interior surfaces (plastic, vinyl, leather, etc). Spray the cleaner onto a microfiber cloth and wipe down the dashboard, door panels, and other surfaces. For leather seats, use a
leather cleaner and conditioner to keep them supple and prevent cracking.
Detailing Brushes: Use brushes to clean out vents, seams, and other tight spots where dirt accumulates.
Windows: Clean the inside of the windows with a glass cleaner and a microfiber towel for a streak-free finish.
4. The Finishing Touches
Tires and Wheels: Clean the wheels with a dedicated wheel cleaner and a stiff brush. Apply tire shine to make your tires look brand new.
Final Inspection: Walk around the car and inspect your work. Touch up any spots that need extra attention.
Detailing your car at home can be a bit of a time-consuming project, depending on the condition of your vehicle and your attention to detail. That being said, the process can be less daunting when it is spread over several days.
Whether you detail your car on your own or take it to the professionals, there's nothing quite like the feeling of driving a car that's clean inside and out.
