Can a new car be wiped with a cloth?
4 Answers
As long as the cloth is clean and soft, and there are no hard dust particles on the car body, wiping the car generally will not cause scratches. However, if the cloth used is made of hard material or is dirty, containing other impurities, it can easily scratch the car paint. Precautions for wiping the car: If the car body surface is relatively dirty, wiping it directly with a cloth can also scratch the body. Therefore, mastering the correct way to wipe the car and precautions can better clean the car body and avoid scratching the paint. Car washing precautions: Do not wash the car too frequently, as excessive washing can easily accelerate paint oxidation. However, not washing the car for a long time is also not good, as acidic components in rainwater and air, as well as harmful substances like bird droppings and dust, can erode and accelerate the aging and damage of the paint.
I pay special attention to tool selection every time I wash my car because the paint on a new car is particularly delicate. Ordinary rags are absolutely not acceptable, especially old ones that may contain tiny sand particles, which can leave swirl marks with just one wipe. I specifically purchased microfiber gloves, paired with pH-neutral car shampoo. First, I rinse off sand particles with water, then use foam to soften dirt, and finally gently wipe with water. Remember to clean in sections, washing the gloves after each area to avoid secondary contamination. It's best not to use automatic car washes for new cars, as those rotating brushes may carry grit from previous vehicles. Regular waxing is also important as it forms a protective layer on the paint surface, making it safer when dusting next time.
I used to wipe my car with old T-shirts, but ended up scratching several marks on it, which broke my heart. Now I use microfiber cleaning cloths made of ice silk material, which are highly absorbent and don’t shed lint. When wiping the car, it’s essential to keep the body wet—dry wiping is like using sandpaper. Once, there was bird droppings on the roof, so I sprayed a dedicated cleaner to soften it for ten minutes and then gently dabbed it off with a wet wipe. The frequency of car washing also needs to be controlled; wiping it every day actually increases the risk of scratches. I usually wash it every two weeks. After washing, remember to check the corners and gaps, as cloths can easily get stuck in wipers or door handles and pull on the paint.
Dusting off a new car depends on specific situations. For temporary emergencies, you can use a soft cotton cloth, such as a newly purchased pure cotton towel, but ensure it's completely clean and free of sand particles. For sticky stains like bird droppings or tree sap, never scrub hard—first spray water to moisten, then gently dab with a cloth. I personally keep a portable spray bottle handy to mist and soften dirt when spotted. Surface dust can be removed with a duster, which is safer than a rag. When washing the car, follow a top-down sequence—roof first, then doors—to avoid dirty water flowing back. After wiping, immediately use a dry cloth to absorb water stains and prevent watermarks.
