Does Washing the Car with a Rag Damage the Paint?

[VanJulian]

Washing the car with a rag does not damage the paint. Here is an introduction to car paint maintenance: Be Alert to Minor Scratches: Rust often appears on the surface of car paint. In addition to common collisions and scratches, small stones kicked up by tires while driving can also cause small chips in the paint, which may develop into small rust spots over time. These minor damages are often overlooked because they usually occur in inconspicuous areas. Regularly inspect the car body, engine hood, and surrounding areas. If any damage is found, promptly take it to a professional detailing shop for treatment. Check Moisture in Areas Prone to Water Accumulation: While driving, encountering rainy or snowy weather or passing through muddy and waterlogged roads is inevitable. Sludge can easily accumulate in gaps such as the underside of the car body and the floor inside the car. If the owner does not clean it in time, moisture can hide in these areas. Regularly inspect areas such as the inner and outer edges of the wheel hubs, doors, bottom corners of the trunk, keyholes, and moving parts of the wiper frame.

[OAurora]

I think washing your car with a rag can indeed damage the paint, as it depends on the material of the rag and how you use it. If you casually grab an old household cloth, it may have dust or small particles on it, and when you scrub the car hard, it will scratch the paint like sandpaper, leaving fine scratches over time. I often DIY car washing myself and made this mistake at first, only later realizing that professional car washes use microfiber cloths or sponges to reduce friction. I recommend first using a high-pressure water gun to rinse off the dirt from the car body, then using a clean and soft cloth with gentle motions, avoiding circular scrubbing. Also, the choice of car wash soap matters—don’t use regular soap, as it can damage the paint’s protective layer. Developing good habits will keep your car’s paint shiny for longer. Don’t try to save a little money now only to spend a lot later on polishing and repairs.

[DeKevin]

I used a rag when washing my car myself and felt it was a bit risky. If there are hard particles in the rag, they can leave tiny scratches when wiping the car, and over time the paint surface will become rough. Especially in summer when the car is very hot from the sun, wiping it can more easily damage the paint. I tried using an old T-shirt to wash the car, only to notice fine scratches later, and then I learned that softer materials should be used. Saving money is good, but protecting the car's paint is more important—otherwise, repairs could cost more than washing. It's recommended to rinse the car body with water first, then gently wipe with a professional car wash cloth. Also, choose the right cleaning agent, avoiding acidic ones, as they help maintain the paint's gloss. Washing once a week is sufficient; doing it too frequently can increase the risk.

[SanGiselle]

As someone who enjoys taking care of my car, I believe that using an ordinary cloth to wash the car can potentially damage the paint. If there are sand particles or impurities on the cloth, they can scratch the paint surface when wiping. To avoid this, choose clean, soft materials like cotton cloths and avoid applying too much pressure when wiping. I also recommend using a mild car wash solution in combination, as it provides better protection for the paint. Regular maintenance is key to keeping the paint more durable over time.