
First, use a long-handled mop to give the car a comprehensive wash. If you have a long hose, you can rinse the car body with water first before using the mop. Fill one-third of a basin with water and stir to fully dissolve and foam the car wash detergent. Use the car wash solution from the basin to scrub the car body. Then rinse off the foam from the car. After washing the car body, use a dry towel to wipe off the water, then open the doors and trunk to let the car air dry naturally.

I really enjoy washing my car myself—it saves money and ensures every nook and cranny gets cleaned properly. I prepare a bucket, specialized car wash soap, and two sponge brushes—one for the upper body and the other for the muddy lower parts and wheels. First, I rinse the entire car from the roof downward with a hose to remove dust. Then, I mix the soap into the bucket and use the sponge to wipe the car section by section from top to bottom, like starting with the roof and hood, then the sides, and finally the wheels and undercarriage. After scrubbing each small area, I rinse the sponge to prevent sand buildup that could scratch the paint. For the wheels, I gently scrub off brake dust with a soft brush. Right after rinsing, I dry the car with a clean microfiber towel to avoid water spots. I also regularly apply a coat of wax to protect the paint from UV damage and keep the body shiny. DIY car washing takes some time, but it avoids rough handling at car washes—killing two birds with one stone while getting some exercise.

As a car enthusiast, I pay attention to professional details when washing my car to protect the paint. I use a two-bucket system: one filled with clean water for rinsing the sponge, and the other containing diluted high-quality car shampoo. I prepare several microfiber gloves and towels. The first step is to pre-rinse the car body to remove large dust particles, then clean in sections: the upper part of the body is gently wiped with a sponge to avoid scratches, while the lower part, including the wheels, is cleaned with another sponge to prevent cross-contamination. When rinsing, the water flows from top to bottom to ensure no soap residue remains. Drying is done quickly with microfiber cloths, and stubborn stains on the wheels are tackled with a dedicated wheel brush. The entire process is carried out avoiding midday sunlight to minimize the risk of water spots. Finally, I check for any missed spots to ensure the paint surface is smooth and flawless. This method extends the car's lifespan, reduces repair costs, and is perfect for perfectionist car lovers.

When washing my car, I focus on eco-friendly methods to minimize environmental impact. Using a spray bottle instead of a continuous hose saves a significant amount of water, while collecting rainwater in a barrel serves a dual purpose. Opting for biodegradable cleaners prevents chemical pollution of soil and waterways. Scheduling car washes for early morning or evening avoids direct sunlight, preventing water spots from evaporation. For stubborn stains, applying eco-friendly cleaner first to soften them before rinsing makes removal easier and environmentally friendly. After washing, directing wastewater to drains rather than gardens reduces ecological impact. Occasionally reducing the frequency of car washes is also feasible—simply wiping the surface with a soft cloth suffices. These small changes make travel greener and help protect our shared home.


