What DIY Detail Got Wrong in Their FOAM-RINSE-FOAM Car Wash Method
DIY Detail recently shared a YouTube video recommending a “foam-rinse-foam” method for washing and decontaminating paint. While it sounds innovative, it misses some critical steps—and adds extra ones that don’t help. Here’s what they got wrong and how to wash smarter.
DIY Detail’s method involves:
- Foaming the car first (pre-soak) with an APC (not good)
- Rinsing the foam off
- Foaming again before doing a contact wash
The intention is to reduce scratching and improve decontamination. But it raises three red flags becuase they are using an APC.
Problem 1: You’re Doubling Product Use Without Added Value
Foaming twice wastes soap and adds zero benefit over one well-executed pre-foam followed by a safe contact wash. If you use a high-foaming product like The Super Soaper, you only need one foam stage.
- Shopify: The Super Soaper
- Amazon: Buy on Amazon
Problem 2: They Don’t Address Proper Decon Chemistry
Foam alone doesn’t decontaminate your paint. To truly remove minerals, hard water, or iron particles, you need the right chemical tools. That means an acid-based wheel/tire/paint decontaminant like The Decon Bundle, not just soap.
- Shopify: The Decon Bundle
Just foaming twice doesn’t strip minerals or break down bonded contamination—it just makes the car look clean temporarily.
Problem 3: Overcomplicating a Simple Process
Washing doesn’t need to be complicated. If you're using a proven soap with a proper technique and the right towel, there’s no need to reinvent the process. DIY Detail's version risks confusing newer users and adding time without adding results.
The Smarter, Simpler Method
Instead of foam-rinse-foam, try this:
- Pre-foam with The Super Soaper
- Rinse thoroughly
- Use The Decon Bundle if you need to strip grime or revive ceramic
- Wash with an ultra-soft towel like the Orange Wash Microfiber
- Dry and optionally top with Tough As Shell
The Bottom Line
DIY Detail’s video tries to innovate—but it skips essential chemistry, adds unnecessary product use, and overcomplicates what should be a simple, effective wash process. Stick with proven, pro-level techniques developed in the real world.
