Top Car Washing Mistakes You’re Still Making (And How to Fix Them)
Think you’ve nailed your wash routine? You might be doing more harm than good.
1. Skipping the Pre-Rinse or Pre-Soak
This is the fastest way to scratch your paint. If you jump straight into contact washing without pre-rinsing or foaming first, you’re dragging dirt across the surface.
Use a dedicated pre-soak like The Super Soaper to break down grime before you ever touch the paint. Let it dwell, then rinse before contact wash.
2. Using the Wrong Towel or Wash Mitt
Not all towels are created equal. Using cheap or rough mitts/towels can create micro-marring and swirls—especially on soft paint.
Try the Orange Wash Microfiber for your contact wash. It’s plush, edgeless, and designed to trap dirt away from your paint.
3. Washing in Direct Sunlight
Hot surfaces cause soap and water to dry too fast, leading to spots and streaks. If you have to wash in the sun, keep the car cool with frequent rinses—and work fast in sections.
4. Not Drying Properly (or At All)
Air drying may sound safe, but it can leave minerals and spots behind. And using a rough towel? Even worse.
Use the Massive Drying Towel for a streak-free finish with zero effort. One towel can dry an entire car safely.
5. Reusing Dirty Buckets or Towels
Dirty wash buckets and towels recycle grit right back onto the paint. Always use clean tools. Better yet—ditch the two-bucket method and pre-soak + foam instead.
Here’s why the two-bucket method is outdated.
Pro Tip: Foam Is Not Just for Fun
Thick foam isn’t just for looks. It helps lift dirt from the paint and acts as a lubricant during your wash. If you’re not getting great foam, the problem might be your soap—not your cannon.
That’s why we made The Super Soaper. It foams like crazy and breaks down dirt without stripping protection.
Start Smart, Finish Strong
A safer wash isn’t just about technique—it’s about using the right tools. Want fewer swirls and better results?
- The Super Soaper – Touchless Pre-Wash Foam
- Orange Wash Microfiber – Ultra-Soft Wash Towel
- Massive Drying Towel – Super Absorbent and Safe