The Best Way to Wash a Car in the Sun (Without Streaks or Spots)
Ideally, you’d wash your car in the shade or early in the morning. But sometimes, the sun is unavoidable—especially in summer or warmer climates.
So what do you do if you’re stuck washing in direct sunlight?
Here’s how to safely wash your car without ending up with water spots, streaks, or frustration.
1. Pre-Soak Quickly and Generously
Start with a thick foam layer to keep panels cool and break down surface grime. Use a high-foaming soap like:
The Super Soaper – Designed to dwell longer and loosen dirt without drying too quickly. Buy on Amazon
2. Wash Panel by Panel (Top to Bottom)
- ✅ Wash and rinse one panel at a time
- ✅ Avoid letting soap dry on hot panels
- ✅ Rinse immediately after scrubbing
This limits how long water and soap sit on the surface under the sun.
3. Dry Immediately With the Right Towel
Don’t let the sun bake water into your paint. As soon as a panel is rinsed, dry it with the Massive Drying Towel—it absorbs fast and glides smooth to avoid scratching.
4. Use a Ceramic Spray as a Drying Aid
Spritz Tough As Shell onto the wet panel before drying to add gloss and prevent water sticking (Buy on Amazon).
5. Bonus Tips to Beat the Heat
- ✔️ Wash the shady side of the car first
- ✔️ Use cool water—not hot
- ✔️ Avoid dark towels that trap heat
- ✔️ If needed, wash in halves (driver side, then passenger side)
What to Avoid
- ❌ Letting foam or rinse water sit on paint too long
- ❌ Starting at the bottom—top to bottom always wins
- ❌ Air drying (guaranteed to cause water spots)
Related Blog Posts
Conclusion
Washing in the sun isn’t ideal—but with the right method, you can still get pro-level results without the drama.
Use Jimbo’s Detailing products to beat the heat and keep your car streak-free, spot-free, and protected—even in full sun.
