In the absence of a car wash, it is possible to effectively wash your car at home or in a suitable outdoor space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash your car manually:

What do you need?

1. Buckets: At least two (one for soapy water and one for rinsing).
2. Car Wash Soap: Use soap specifically designed for cars.
3. Water source: hose or water outlet for flushing.
4. Sponge or Cleaning Glove: Soft material to avoid scratching the paint.
5. Microfiber Towel: Used to dry the car after washing it.
6. Wheel Brush: Used to clean wheels and tires.
7. Glass Cleaner: Used to clean windows and mirrors.
8. OPTIONAL: Clay sticks, wax and tire trimming to provide extra detail.

Steps to wash your car

1. Find the right spot: Choose a shady spot to prevent the sun from drying out the soap on your car too quickly.

2. Prepare your bucket:

• Fill a bucket of water and add the recommended amount of car wash soap.
• Fill a second bucket with clean water for rinsing sponges or washing gloves.

3. Rinse the car:

• Use a hose to flush loose dirt and debris from the car’s surface. Start at the top and work your way down.

4. Car Wash:

• Dip a sponge or cleaning mitt into the soapy water and start washing the car from top to bottom. This helps prevent dirt from being dragged into the clean area.
• Rinse the sponge frequently with a bucket of clean water to avoid scratching the paint.

5. Clean the wheels:

• Use a wheel brush and a separate bucket of soapy water to clean wheels and tires. Make sure to scrub the rims and tire sidewalls.

6. Rinse the car again:

• After washing the car, rinse the car thoroughly with clean water, making sure all soap is removed.

7. Dry the car:

• Use a microfiber towel to dry the car from top to bottom. This helps prevent water spots.

8. Clean windows:

• Use glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth to clean windows and mirrors.

9. OPTIONAL DETAILS:

• If needed, use a clay bar to remove any contaminants from the paint, then apply wax to protect. You can also use tire trimmer for a polished look.

Tip

• Avoid washing in direct sunlight: This may cause the soap to dry too quickly and leave spots.
• USE TWO BUCKETS: This helps prevent dirt from getting back on the car.
• Be gentle: Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the paint.

By following the steps below, you can effectively wash your car at home without the need for a car wash facility.