Can You Use Dish Soap on a Car?
Dish soap might seem like a cheap, easy option for washing your car, but is it actually safe for your paint? Let’s uncover the truth and show you what to use instead.
Why People Think Dish Soap Works
Dish soap is designed to cut through grease and grime, so many assume it can handle dirty cars too. While it does remove dirt effectively, it also strips away protective layers on your paint.
The Problem with Dish Soap
- Strips Protection – Dish soap removes wax, sealant, and even weak ceramic sprays.
- Not pH Balanced – Harsh on clear coats, rubber, and trim.
- Can Cause Drying – Leaves paint unprotected and vulnerable to fading, oxidation, and etching.
When Dish Soap Might Be Used
The only time professionals might use dish soap is during a paint prep wash before correction or coating—when the goal is to strip everything from the surface. For regular maintenance washes, it’s a big no-no.
Safe Alternative: The Super Soaper
Protect your paint while you wash—The Super Soaper is pH-balanced, slick, and safe for wax, sealants, and ceramic coatings.
Buy on Jimbo’s Detailing Buy on AmazonDish Soap vs Car Wash Soap
| Product | pH Level | Safe on Protection | Lubrication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dish Soap | High / Harsh | No (strips wax & coatings) | Low |
| Car Wash Soap (Super Soaper) | pH Balanced | Yes (safe on wax, sealant, ceramics) | High (reduces swirl risk) |
What to Use Instead
A dedicated car shampoo like The Super Soaper is designed to clean safely. It provides slick lubrication, maintains your protection, and rinses clean without residue.
Pro Tips
- Use a foam cannon or pump sprayer to pre-soak and loosen dirt.
- Wash with a dedicated microfiber wash towel instead of sponges.
- Dry with a Massive Drying Towel to prevent water spots.
