Clean machine: When to wash your car

When it comes to possessions, cars are definitely up there in terms of being prized; some people may well even love their cars. Considering that, after the house, a car is usually the most expensive item people own, this is perhaps unsurprising. Much thought goes into the model, style and colour chosen, and generally owners want to keep their car looking as good as the day they bought it. Cleaning, then, is an unavoidable chore, but how often do you need to perform this task? Read on for car cleaning facts.

How often you should wash your car

First and foremost, how often you need to wash your car will definitely be affected by your lifestyle and location. People have different routines and furthermore each person has their own perspective on the level of car maintenance required. A general rule would be to wash your car once a month but there are some instances where more frequent washes would be necessary, such as:

• Regular travel on unsealed roads
• Living in a coastal environment
• Residing in close proximity to certain industries

All of these factors would necessitate more regular and thorough car washes (perhaps as often as once a week) in order to prevent contaminants building up on your car and causing potentially serious damage to the body and paintwork.

Regular travel on unsealed roads exposes your car to dust and mud build-up, beneath it as well as on the body. A build-up of grit around your wiper blades and window seals can result in scratches on the windows, and fine grit can scratch and fade your car’s paintwork. Regular washing, with close attention to all the places that grit can accumulate, will preserve your car’s looks and condition.

Coastal areas bring their own hazards and washing your car regularly is recommended if you live near the sea.  Salt air can affect your car and over time cause fairly significant corrosion. Weekly or fortnightly washing will reduce the effects of salt air on your car. The same applies if you live in close proximity to a chemical plant or industrial site. Airborne particles can damage your car’s paintwork but frequent washing will remove them before they can have an effect.

Tips for washing your car

When purchasing cleaning products required for your car, such as shampoo, wax, a washing mitt and a chamois, opt for better quality; remember that your car’s value is high enough to justify spending a few more dollars. Park your car in the shade if possible as the car will be cooler, which lessens the chance of streaks and water marks. Mix the shampoo according to the directions and always begin washing your car from the roof, working your way down to the wheels.

Beware of transferring dirt back onto your car - rinse your mitt well after going over each section, and mix a new bucket of water when the one you’re using gets too dirty. Furthermore, be very diligent around crevices and other dirt traps.

Rinse your car well with clean water and again, begin at the roof and allow the water to flow over your car. Dry it off with the chamois and then park your car in the sun to finish drying. Finally, give your car a good wax at least twice a year and your car will retain its looks for years to come.