For a thorough, "real" car cleaning, you'll need the right tools, supplies, and attention to detail. Here’s a complete list of what you'll need for both interior and exterior deep cleaning, along with a step-by-step guide.

Tools and Supplies Needed:

For Exterior Cleaning:

1. Buckets (2) – One for soapy water and one for rinsing.
2. Car Wash Soap – Designed specifically for car paint (not household soaps like dish detergent).
3. Wash Mitt or Sponge – A soft, non-abrasive wash mitt to prevent scratches.
4. Pressure Washer or Hose – For rinsing the car.
5. Wheel Cleaner – A cleaner designed for wheels and tires.
6. Wheel Brush – A separate brush for scrubbing the wheels and tires.
7. Grit Guard (optional) – Helps trap dirt at the bottom of your bucket to prevent scratches.
8. Drying Towels – Microfiber towels or a car drying towel to avoid streaks.
9. Clay Bar or Clay Mitt – To remove contaminants from the paint surface after washing.
10. Polish (optional) – If you're looking to remove light scratches and restore shine.
11. Wax or Sealant – To protect the paint after cleaning.
12. Tire Shine (optional) – To add a glossy finish to the tires.
13. Window Cleaner – For streak-free windows.

For Interior Cleaning:

1. Vacuum – A handheld or shop vacuum with attachments for hard-to-reach areas.
2. Interior Cleaner – A multi-surface cleaner for dashboards, door panels, and other surfaces.
3. Glass Cleaner – For windows and mirrors.
4. Microfiber Cloths – Soft, lint-free cloths for wiping down surfaces and windows.
5. Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner – For fabric seats and carpets, or leather cleaner for leather seats.
6. Detail Brushes – Small brushes for air vents, seams, and crevices.
7. Compressed Air or Air Blower (optional) – To blow out dust and dirt from tight areas.
8. Leather Conditioner (optional) – If you have leather seats, to condition and protect the leather.
9. Air Freshener – To add a fresh scent after cleaning.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Exterior Cleaning Process:

1. Pre-Rinse the Car

   Use a hose or pressure washer to rinse the entire car, loosening dirt and debris.

2. Wash the Car

   Use the two-bucket method: one with soapy water, one with clean water for rinsing your mitt. Start from the top and work down, using a wash mitt or sponge. Rinse the mitt in the clean water bucket frequently to prevent scratches.

3. Clean the Wheels and Tires

   Use a wheel cleaner and a separate brush to scrub the wheels and tires.Rinse thoroughly once clean.

4. Rinse the Car

   Rinse the car thoroughly, making sure to remove all soap.

5. Clay Bar Treatment (Optional but Recommended)

   Use a clay bar or clay mitt with a lubricant to remove embedded contaminants from the paint.

6. Polish (Optional)

   If needed, use a car polish to restore shine and remove light scratches. Apply using a soft applicator pad or machine polisher.

7. Wax or Sealant

   Apply a layer of wax or paint sealant to protect the paint. Follow the instructions on the product for the best results.

8. Dry the Car

   Use a microfiber towel to dry the car, working from the top down to avoid streaks and water spots.

9. Clean Windows

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

10. Apply Tire Shine (Optional)

    If desired, apply tire shine for a polished look.

Interior Cleaning Process:

1. Remove Trash and Clutter

   Start by removing all trash, personal items, and clutter from the car.

2. Vacuum the Interior

   Vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Don’t forget the trunk and under the seats.

3. Clean the Dashboard, Doors, and Center Console

   Use an interior cleaner and a microfiber cloth to wipe down all surfaces. For tight areas, use a detailing brush or compressed air to remove dust.

4. Clean the Seats

   For fabric seats, use a carpet and upholstery cleaner. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner followed by a conditioner to keep the leather supple.

5. Clean the Windows

   Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the inside of the windows and mirrors.

6. Air Vents and Small Crevices

   Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean dust from air vents and hard-to-reach spots.

7. Floor Mats

   Remove and clean the floor mats with appropriate cleaner (fabric or rubber), then allow them to dry before putting them back.

8. Add an Air Freshener

   As a finishing touch, place an air freshener or spray the interior for a pleasant scent.

Time and Effort:

• Exterior Cleaning: 1-2 hours (longer if you include waxing or polishing)
• Interior Cleaning: 30-60 minutes

Final Tips:

• Clean your car regularly to prevent buildup and damage.
• Use separate tools and products for the interior and exterior to avoid cross-contamination.
• Always clean from top to bottom for both interior and exterior to prevent re-soiling.

With these tools and steps, you can do a professional-level car cleaning by hand, ensuring your car looks and feels like new!