How to Prep Your Car for a Show: The Complete Shine & Detail Checklist
Whether it’s a local Cars & Coffee or a full-blown concours, showing up with a dull, dusty car just won’t cut it. You need that deep gloss, crisp trim, spotless glass, and perfect tire finish.
Here’s the ultimate checklist to get your car ready for the spotlight—without needing a pro detail.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Don’t skip the pre-soak. Apply The Super Soaper as a foam or pump sprayer pre-treatment to lift dirt before you touch the paint. Let it dwell, rinse, then wash using clean water and a soft mitt.
2. Clay the Paint for a Smooth Finish
Even if your car “looks” clean, a quick clay pass will remove surface contaminants and give you that glassy feel. Use leftover foam as lube or a dedicated clay lube.
3. Polish for Clarity and Gloss
If you have time, use a one-step polish like Picture Perfect Polish (coming soon!) to remove micro-swirls and enhance depth. This is what separates a clean car from a show-ready car.
Don’t overdo it—one good pass per panel is enough.
4. Protect It with a Ceramic Spray
Apply a coat of Tough As Shell to lock in gloss, boost hydrophobic effects, and give your car that slick, reflective finish. It also helps dust and bugs slide off during the event.
5. Dress the Tires, Trim & Engine Bay
All Dressed Up gives your tires and plastics a satin, factory-new look—no grease, no shine, no sling. Use it on:
- Sidewalls
- Exterior trim
- Engine bay plastics
Pro tip: Use a foam applicator and level it with a microfiber towel.
6. Clean the Interior (Fast)
You don’t need to deep clean unless judges are checking inside—but it should still smell clean and look tidy. Use Complete Cabin Cleaner to wipe down high-touch areas and door panels.
7. Detail the Glass Last
Wipe interior and exterior glass with a fresh towel to remove streaks and overspray. Focus on:
- Windshield (inside and out)
- Driver’s side window
- Rearview mirror and side mirrors
8. Bring a Show Day Touch-Up Kit
- Microfiber Towels (3–5)
- Spray bottle of water or quick detailer
- Soft brush for wheels or vents
- Small trash bag for last-minute cleanup
Bonus: What NOT to Do Before a Show
- ❌ Don’t over-dress the tires (shiny = greasy = bad)
- ❌ Don’t apply ceramic on a hot panel (streaks happen fast)
- ❌ Don’t forget the exhaust tips, door jambs, and hood edges
Conclusion
Show day is about standing out. With the right prep and a few high-quality products, your car can shine harder than anything in the lot—even if it’s not a trailer queen.
🧼 Show Prep Product Checklist:
- The Super Soaper – Touchless Foam Soap
- Tough As Shell – Spray Ceramic Coating
- All Dressed Up – Tire & Trim Dressing
- Complete Cabin Cleaner – Interior Detailer
- Everyday Microfiber Towels
- Picture Perfect Polish – Coming Soon
Clean it. Protect it. Show it off.
