Try washing your car in a cool, shady area to avoid streaking and reduce water spotting. Start at the top of the vehicle and move down. The bottom parts of your car accumulate the most dirt, so starting at the top will help to avoid dragging dirt onto other parts of your car.
To minimise swirls and scratches while washing your car, use two buckets. Fill the first bucket with clean water and the second bucket with water and car wash. First dunk your sponge or mitt into the soapy car wash solution to wash your car with lubricating suds. Before adding more soapy car wash solution, dunk the mitt or sponge vigorously into the bucket with clear water to avoid transferring dirt back onto your paint.
Use an automotive car wash instead of dish soap, as some dish soaps can strip the wax and damage the car’s finish. Car wash soaps are specifically developed for automotive paint surfaces.
To remove stubborn stains such as insects, tree sap and bird droppings, try using a non-diluted car wash soap or Armor All Insect Remover.
Using a sponge, apply full strength car wash directly onto the spots, let it penetrate for 3–5 minutes, then wash it off with a stream of water.
Armor All has different car wash formulas to fit your needs.
To avoid scratching your car with dirt and grime while washing, repeatedly clean your washcloth and refill the bucket of water, especially if it’s very dirty.
Use a sponge or mitt designed for automotive use. Microfibre also works particularly well.
Use different washcloths for your car and tyres. Change out frequently to avoid scraping your car’s surface with embedded dirt.
To avoid water spotting, dry the car immediately with an Armor All Absorbent PVA Chamois.
For finishing touches, the Armor All Microfibre All Purpose Cloth works nicely.
Use plenty of water in a large bucket so dirt will settle to the bottom and cleaner water will stay at the top. Use a low-pressure stream of water to avoid splashing water on yourself. The right car wash accessories will help give your car a buffed look.