How to Wash Your Car in Direct Sunlight Without Ruining the Finish
Washing a car in direct sunlight can be a nightmare—water spots, streaks, soap drying too fast. But sometimes, you don’t have a choice. In this guide, I’ll show you how to safely and effectively wash your car in the sun using smart techniques and pro-grade products.
✅ Use the Right Soap to Extend Working Time
One of the biggest problems with washing in the sun is soap drying too fast. That’s where a high-lubricity, high-dwell foam soap like The Super Soaper comes in. It clings longer, keeps panels cool, and helps prevent water spots.
Use it in a foam cannon or pump sprayer to pre-soak the vehicle before contact washing.
- Buy The Super Soaper on Shopify: https://jimbosdetailing.com/products/the-super-soaper
- Buy The Super Soaper on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eqLf3f
🧼 Wash in Sections & Rinse Quickly
Don’t wash the entire car and then rinse—by the time you get back to the first panel, it’s already dried. Instead:
- Foam 1–2 panels at a time
- Wash with a soft wash mitt or towel like the Orange Wash Microfiber
- Rinse immediately with clean water
This method reduces soap drying and ensures clean, streak-free results even under the sun.
💦 Dry With a Soft Towel or Blower
To avoid streaking during drying, use a dedicated drying towel like the Massive Drying Towel or a quality blower. Work fast and be thorough—especially around emblems, mirrors, and trim.
☀️ Bonus Tips for Hot Weather Detailing
- Start early in the morning or late in the day to avoid peak sun
- Use deionized (DI) water if possible to reduce spotting
- Apply a ceramic spray like Tough As Shell to help repel water long-term
These small changes can make a big difference when working in less-than-ideal conditions.
🛒 Recommended Products:
- The Super Soaper: Shopify | Amazon
- Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray: Shopify | Amazon
- Massive Drying Towel: Shop Now
- Orange Wash Microfiber Towel: Shop Now
