How to Wash Ceramic-Coated Cars with Foam Cannons
Ceramic coatings provide incredible protection, but only if you wash them correctly. Here’s how to safely use a foam cannon on coated cars.
If you’ve invested in a ceramic coating, you want to maintain it properly. The wrong wash method can shorten its lifespan or dull its hydrophobic properties. That’s where foam cannons come in. Used with the right soap and technique, they’re one of the best tools to keep ceramic coatings performing like new.
Why Foam Cannons Are Ideal for Coated Cars
Ceramic coatings are extremely slick, but dirt and road film still cling to them. Foam cannons cover your car in thick suds, breaking down contaminants before you touch the paint. This minimizes swirls and extends the life of your coating.
Best Soap for Ceramic-Coated Cars
A pH-balanced, high-foaming soap like The Super Soaper is perfect for coated vehicles. It gently cleans without stripping protection. Avoid harsh detergents, dish soap, or anything marketed as “degreaser” for general use.
How to Wash a Ceramic-Coated Car with a Foam Cannon
- Rinse the car to knock off loose dirt.
- Fill your foam cannon with water and 2–3 oz of car soap.
- Spray the car from top to bottom, letting the foam dwell for 3–5 minutes.
- Use a microfiber wash mitt or towel for a gentle contact wash.
- Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water.
- Dry with a dedicated drying towel.
Washing Coated vs Non-Coated Cars
| Feature | Ceramic-Coated Car | Non-Coated Car |
|---|---|---|
| Soap Needed | Low-foaming, pH-balanced | Any quality car soap |
| Scrubbing Pressure | Light – coating is slick | Moderate – dirt clings more |
| Drying | Quick, easy – water beads off | More effort – water sheets slowly |
| Protection Maintenance | Use topper spray (like Tough As Shell) | Apply wax/sealant more often |
Maintaining Hydrophobic Properties
Even the best coatings need a little help. Applying a maintenance spray like Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray (Amazon link) after washes refreshes the slickness and water-beading. For ultimate durability, use The Gloss Boss, a wipe-on ceramic coating with up to 5 years of protection.
What to Avoid When Washing Ceramic-Coated Cars
- ❌ Avoid dish soap or degreasers
- ❌ Don’t scrub aggressively
- ❌ Never wash in direct sunlight
- ❌ Skip harsh drying towels or chamois
Related Products
The Super Soaper
High-foaming, pH-balanced soap that’s safe for ceramic-coated cars.
Orange Wash Microfiber
Soft wash towel designed to safely glide over coated paint surfaces.
Massive Drying Towel
Ultra-plush towel for drying coated cars without scratches or spots.
Q&A: Washing Ceramic-Coated Cars
Can I use a foam cannon on a ceramic-coated car?
Yes. Foam cannons are one of the safest wash methods for coatings.
What soap is best for ceramic-coated cars?
A pH-balanced, high-foaming soap like The Super Soaper is ideal.
How often should I wash a ceramic-coated car?
Every 1–2 weeks to keep the coating clean and hydrophobic.
Do I still need a topper spray with a ceramic coating?
Yes. Using a product like Tough As Shell keeps water beading strong.
Related Reading
Final Thoughts
Ceramic coatings need proper care, and foam cannons make that easy. With the right soap, gentle contact washing, and regular toppers like Tough As Shell (Amazon link) or The Gloss Boss, your coating will keep looking glossy and hydrophobic for years.
