How long does it take for you to hand wash your car?
Hand washing a car typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the level of detail and thoroughness you aim for. Here's a breakdown of the time for each step:
-
Pre-Rinse: 5-10 minutes
Rinse the entire car to remove loose dirt and debris. -
Washing: 15-25 minutes
Using the two-bucket method, carefully wash the car from top to bottom with a wash mitt and car soap. -
Rinsing: 5-10 minutes
Rinse off all soap and residue thoroughly with clean water. -
Drying: 10-15 minutes
Dry the car with microfiber towels or a car blower to prevent water spots.
If you add steps like cleaning the wheels, applying a wax or polish, or using a clay bar, it could take longer—up to 90 minutes or more. But for a basic hand wash, you should expect around 30-45 minutes for a complete job.
We've got great news for you: washing your car by hand is easy, and with the right supplies, it can take just under an hour! In this article, we'll walk you through washing, rinsing, and drying your car so you can enjoy a fresh wash right at home.
Use the bucket of warm, soapy water to gently scrub your car with the towel or mitt, rinsing occasionally in the rinse bucket. Wash your car from top to bottom, since the soapy water will drip down as you go. Rinse everything with clean water afterward (another instance where a hose might come in handy).
Use a gentle sideways motion, or pat-dry if preferred. The entire job should take less than an hour, so it's perfect if you're in a hurry or don't want to spend an entire weekend washing the car.