Summer Car Washing Tips

Washing your car in the summer heat isn’t always easy. With the sun beating down and water drying faster than you can rinse it, it’s easy to end up with streaks, spots, or frustration. Luckily, there are a few simple adjustments you can make to get better results when the weather heats up.

Wash Early or Late

The best time to wash your car during summer is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid midday sun when surfaces are hottest, and drying time is at its fastest.

Work in Sections

Don’t try to soap the entire car at once. Instead, break it down into sections (roof, hood, doors, etc.). Rinse each section quickly after washing to avoid water spots from forming.

Use Plenty of Water

Pre-rinsing your car with lots of cool water helps reduce surface temperature and loosen dirt. A thorough rinse also helps your soap cling better and reduces the chances of streaks.

Choose the Right Towels

Drying is one of the most important parts of washing in the summer. Use large, absorbent microfiber towels and blot dry instead of dragging the towel across the surface. This helps avoid swirl marks.

Avoid Washing in Direct Sunlight

Whenever possible, try to wash in the shade. If you don’t have access to cover, consider using a pop-up canopy or parking next to a large building that casts shade in the morning or evening.

Keep It Simple

Summer car washing is all about speed and control. Avoid over-complicating the process. Stick with what works and adjust your routine to the heat rather than fighting against it.

Final Thought

With just a few smart changes, you can keep your car looking great all summer long—without fighting the sun or stressing about water spots. Timing and technique are everything.