How Should a Beginner Wash Their Car at a Car Wash?
3 Answers
For a new car, it's best to go to a dust-free manual car wash room and use a neutral, mild detergent to thoroughly remove sand particles and dirt from the car's paint surface. Contaminants with chemical components like tree sap, alkali, and acid must be carefully wiped off with specialized cleaning clay. After rinsing with clean water, simply dry the car with a clean chamois cloth. Here are some precautions for beginners visiting a car wash for the first time: 1. Detergent selection: Never choose strong alkaline solvents, as they not only accelerate paint aging but also damage rubber components. 2. Separate towels: It's essential to use different towels for washing and drying the car. The washing towel may contain impurities that could scratch the paint surface if used for drying. 3. Skip maintenance treatments: There's no need to rush into additional protective treatments during your first visit. Many new cars come with a factory-applied protective film that gradually wears off over 3-6 months. Applying an extra coating during this period is unnecessary, as it offers minimal benefits and wastes money.
As a new car owner, I was super nervous during my first car wash, but it turned out simpler than expected. Staff will guide you to park upon arrival—remember to secure valuables beforehand. Opt for the basic wash package (takes ~40 mins): they start with pressure washing to remove dirt, apply foam for scrubbing (even polishing the rims!), then dry with large towels and vacuum floor mats. Pro tips: close sunroof tightly, fold side mirrors. Mobile payment is available; ask for a membership card to save next time. Avoid midday washes in summer—quick-drying water spots leave marks.
As a long-distance driver, I recommend beginners choose chain car wash shops for reliability. Check the price list upon entry – 30-50 yuan for a basic wash is reasonable, and don't be upsold on ceramic coating. Confirm the mileage before handing over your keys, and don't leave IDs or wallets in the car. Their washing process has three steps: pre-rinse to remove large debris, foam scrubbing with pH-neutral shampoo, and final air-blowing to dry crevices. After washing, check door seals and under wipers for hidden water droplets. Washing twice monthly is sufficient, and rinsing promptly after rain reduces tree sap damage to paint. Annual memberships save 30%, but try a single wash first to assess quality.
