Best Car Wash for Ceramic Coated Cars

Jimbo Balaam on

Ceramic coatings need special care. Here’s the safest way to wash coated cars.

Best Car Wash for Ceramic Coated Cars

Best Car Wash for Ceramic Coated Cars

Ceramic coatings are one of the best investments you can make for your car’s paint. They add gloss, hydrophobicity, and long-term protection. But washing a ceramic-coated car requires the right products and methods. The wrong soap can strip protection or leave streaks, while the right wash enhances and preserves your coating. In this guide, we’ll break down the best car wash soaps, tools, and techniques for ceramic coated cars.

Best Soap for Ceramic Coatings: The Super Soaper

Ceramic coatings require pH-neutral soaps that clean without stripping protection. The Super Soaper is designed specifically for this. It produces ultra-thick foam, adds slick lubrication, and rinses streak-free — keeping your coating strong and glossy with every wash.

Why Ceramic Coated Cars Need Special Care

A ceramic coating isn’t bulletproof. While it adds hardness and water-beading, it still needs regular maintenance. The wrong wash process can shorten its lifespan. Harsh detergents strip hydrophobic layers, while rough towels introduce swirls that dull gloss. To maximize your investment, you need the right soap and technique.

  • pH-Balanced Soap: Neutral cleaners won’t degrade coatings.
  • High Lubricity: Prevents swirl marks during contact washing.
  • No Waxes or Fillers: Some soaps add gloss enhancers that can clog coatings instead of letting them perform naturally.

Best Car Wash Soaps for Ceramic Coated Cars

1. The Super Soaper (Top Pick)

Formulated for modern coatings, The Super Soaper is safe on ceramic, sealants, and wax. It produces rich foam, works in both foam cannons and buckets, and rinses off without residue. Use 2–4 oz in a foam cannon for pre-soak or 1–2 oz in a wash bucket.

2. Pure pH-Neutral Soaps

Look for dedicated coating-safe soaps that don’t contain gloss enhancers or wax. These allow your ceramic’s natural properties to shine without interference.

3. Rinseless Wash Options

When water access is limited, rinseless washes with added lubrication can safely clean ceramic coated cars. Use plenty of plush microfiber towels and avoid working on heavy dirt buildup.

Best Tools for Washing Ceramic Coated Cars

  • Orange Wash Microfiber Towels: Safer than mitts, edgeless, and plush for scratch-free contact washing. Shop Orange Wash Towels
  • Massive Drying Towel: Absorbs water fast without streaking. Shop Drying Towel
  • Blower: Use an electric blower to remove water from crevices and trim.

Step-by-Step Wash Method for Ceramic Coated Cars

  1. Pre-Rinse: Always rinse the car thoroughly to remove loose dirt.
  2. Foam Pre-Soak: Use The Super Soaper in a foam cannon. Let dwell 3 minutes.
  3. Contact Wash: Use multiple Orange Wash Towels, flipping often, working top to bottom.
  4. Flood Rinse: Sheet water off panels for easier drying.
  5. Dry Safely: Blot with the Massive Drying Towel and blow crevices dry.
  6. Top With Ceramic Spray: Apply Tough As Shell to refresh hydrophobic properties.

Maintenance Tips for Ceramic Coated Cars

  • Wash weekly to prevent dirt buildup that bonds to coatings.
  • Use ceramic sprays like Tough As Shell monthly to boost slickness.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals and degreasers unless absolutely necessary.
  • Never use sponges or bath towels — they cause swirls.
  • If water spots form, remove them quickly with a coating-safe water spot remover.

FAQ

Can touchless car washes be used on ceramic coated cars?

Occasionally, yes. But their harsh detergents weaken coatings over time. Always reapply ceramic spray protection afterwards.

Do ceramic coatings mean I don’t have to wash as often?

No. Coatings make cleaning easier but don’t make your car self-cleaning. Regular washes are still required.

What’s the safest drying method?

A blower plus a plush drying towel. Never air dry — it leaves water spots, even on coatings.

Do I need special soap for ceramic coated cars?

Yes. Use pH-neutral soaps like The Super Soaper. Avoid dish soap or harsh detergents that strip protection.

Bottom line: Washing a ceramic coated car isn’t complicated — but it does require the right soap, tools, and techniques. By using pH-neutral soaps like The Super Soaper, plush microfiber towels, and ceramic sprays like Tough As Shell, you’ll extend the life of your coating and keep your car looking glossy, slick, and protected for years.