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How often should a car be cleaned?

Cleaning your car is an important aspect of car maintenance that many try to avoid. However, a clean car is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a great way to increase the longevity and resale value of your car. While some like to clean their car themselves, others would rather pay a car wash service or a professional valeting company to do the work for them. Whatever your preference, we’ve provided you with a ‘how to’ on car cleaning frequency with all the best tips and tricks.

Important Factors

The frequency in which you clean your car is dependent on a few factors such as location, lifestyle and weather. If you live in a built-up area or close to an industrial estate your vehicle is more exposed to soot and dust residue settling. Whereas, those who live by the ocean are more likely to be affected by the sea breeze, and the salty particles it carries.

Both contaminants, once settled, can affect the paintwork and if untreated can lead to rust damage which will cost to repair. In either of these situations, cleaning your car once a week will prolong the lifespan of your vehicles paintwork.

No matter where you live, there is also the added inconvenience of birds! As much as you try, you cannot escape them, so do your best to clean off any bird droppings as soon as you spot them.

Whatever the Weather, Clean your Car!

Another factor that can influence your car cleaning routine is the weather. Sunny days are likely to fade the paintwork, while rain, especially acid rain, can corrode the protective layer over the paint. As we typically endure harsher weather conditions at the beginning of the new year, winter paint protecting tips should always be considered.

For drivers living in areas with milder weather conditions, it may be more feasible to wash your vehicle less frequently. If you’re considering cleaning your car around two or three times a month, remember to invest in the best car cleaning products on the market to give longer-lasting results.

Do it Yourself

If you prefer to wash your vehicle yourself, we recommend following these tips to avoid creating any unwanted damage:

  1. Always rinse the car off with a hose (or bucket) before you use your sponge to remove loose debris
  2. Use a proper car cleaning shampoo rather than household detergent – washing up liquid will only damage the protective sealant further
  3. Use two sponges, one for the body and another for the wheels
  4. Don’t forget to wash the lights and number plate!
  5. Avoid washing your car when the body is hot, or if it’s in the sun
  6. When drying, use a microfiber cloth in a patting motion to avoid scratching the paint from any dirt left behind

Don’t Forget the Interior

Cleaning the inside of your car is just as important as protecting the exterior and shouldn’t be neglected. A lot of dirt and grime is transferred from outside into your car, causing damage if it is left untreated. If you eat in your car there are likely to be crumbs and lingering smells as well as the risk of spills.

These factors can impact the value of your car especially if there are stains on the upholstery. Investing in decent upholstery cleaner or paying for the service will help rid of any unwanted smells and stains. Don’t forget to spend some time once a week to clear out any litter too.

Essentially, you can wash your car as little or as often as you like. If you want to keep in it top condition you’ll want to wash it at least a couple of times a month, using the correct products and drying it off properly. Again, while committing to daily maintenance by cleaning off bug and bird residue as soon as you notice it, you will protect your paintwork for longer.

If you have paintwork damage or bumper cracks, please get in touch with us for a friendly quote today.

 

 

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