Finding A Local Pro Detailer
Looking for the best local professional detailer to fit your needs? Allow us to help...
The 10 Detailing Don'ts
We’ve all come across countless articles on car detailing that focus on what you *should* be doing and the best techniques to use. Here, however, we’ve compiled a list of essential 'do not's' that you need to keep in mind when detailing your pride and joy.
1
Avoid washing your car in direct sunlight or on extremely hot days. While a beautiful summer day might seem ideal for a car wash, high temperatures can cause products to dry too quickly. This often leads to a rushed job, resulting in streaks and watermarks that will require extra effort with a quick detailer to remove, along with any dried product residue.
2
Avoid using a sponge for washing your car. Despite the frequent inquiries, sponges are among the worst choices for this task. Their flat surfaces tend to attract dirt, which can cling to them. Instead, opt for a deep-pile, cushioned wash mitt that absorbs dirt effectively. Be sure to rinse the mitt regularly in a second bucket, and always dip it back into the soap bucket before returning to the car for the best results.
3
Avoid using an aqua blade, as it can drag dirt across the paint's surface, which can lead to scratches. Instead, ensure you rinse the vehicle thoroughly before drying it with a microfibre drying towel, or opt for our highly regarded Aqua Deluxe Drying Towel for optimal results.
4
Avoid spraying wheel cleaner on hot or warm wheels, as this can cause the solution to bake onto the surface and damage the wheel's finish. It’s best to wait a little while after driving to allow the wheels and brakes to cool down before washing the car.
5
Avoid getting polish on plastic or rubber trim, as it can cause staining. While you can remove it with a nail brush and a suitable cleaner, this method is time-consuming and may damage the trim in the process. It’s simply not worth the hassle—don’t take the risk!
6
It may seem like a small detail, but avoid resting bottles on the paintwork. Doing so can lead to water rings, scratches, and can ultimately harm the paint and its finish.
7
Avoid applying a sealant over any wax layers. Sealants are formulated to bond with clean paint, and if wax is present, the sealant won't adhere effectively. As a result, it may wash off the next time you clean your car, wasting both the sealant and your effort.
8
Avoid applying Auto Finesse Aqua Coat to a freshly waxed car, as it can negatively react with the wax and penetrate its surface. If Aqua Coat does come into contact with a waxed panel, it’s advisable to completely strip the wax and reapply it afterward.
9
Avoid tumble drying your cloths. Since they are made from plastic fibres, applying heat will cause the fibres to fuse together, creating thicker, coarser strands that can scratch the paint.
10
Lastly, but certainly not least, avoid using a dropped clay bar or wash mitt. While you can rinse or wash a mitt after use, a dropped clay bar should be discarded immediately. There's no recovering it once it has touched the ground.
