
Using a soft broom to clean a car generally does not cause scratches. Below are the methods and precautions for cleaning the engine compartment: Methods for cleaning the engine compartment: After the car has cooled down, you can use a brush to gently remove dust from the instruments, being careful not to apply too much force to avoid damaging the circuit boards. Then, spray the purchased cleaner onto these components, taking care not to spray it onto the circuit boards to prevent short circuits. Finally, gently wipe everything with a cloth. Precautions for cleaning: For new cars, a high-pressure water gun can be used when cleaning the engine compartment. However, for older cars, even though the engine compartment is insulated, there is still a risk of causing a short circuit somewhere.

Using a soft broom to sweep the car—honestly, I used to do this a lot when I was younger, thinking it was quick and convenient. But a few times later, I noticed problems. The broom may look soft, but the tips of the bristles can easily trap tiny sand particles or dust. If you apply too much force while sweeping, it can leave fine scratches on the car’s paint, especially noticeable under sunlight when it reflects. Later, I learned my lesson and now only rinse off the bulk of the dust with water first, then wipe it down with a soft cloth. If you really must use a soft broom, thoroughly rinse the broom head first, then sweep gently from top to bottom—avoid back-and-forth scrubbing to prevent scratches. A safer option is to invest in a dedicated soft-bristle car wash brush, which costs just a few dozen bucks. Protecting your car’s paint is more cost-effective in the long run, saving you from expensive touch-ups later.

As someone who has worked on cars for many years, I've encountered numerous cases where customers caused scratches using soft brooms. The car paint surface is actually quite fragile. While the fibers of a soft broom may seem gentle, repeated sweeping can grind dust or hard particles into the paint, creating tiny swirl marks. Over time, this accumulation will make the paint lose its luster. My suggestion is not to be lazy - either use a high-pressure water jet for initial rinsing or clean by hand with a microfiber cloth, which is much safer. Reserve soft brooms for emergencies only, making sure they're brand new or thoroughly cleaned. Always check for sand particles on the car before sweeping, and use smooth, gentle motions. Prevention is key - neglecting minor issues will lead to major repairs later.

As a meticulous home craftsman who loves cleanliness, I'd advise being cautious when using a soft broom to sweep your car. Even with soft bristles, tiny debris hidden in the fibers can potentially scratch the car's paint during sweeping, leaving unsightly fine marks. I've tried it a few times myself, only to end up with a dulled paint finish. That's why I now prioritize using a damp cloth or soft brush for cleaning the roof and body of my car. If you must use a broom, first soak the broom head in water to clean it, then gently sweep away large debris like fallen leaves—avoid applying too much pressure. It's even better to combine this with water rinsing or foam cleaner to minimize friction. When it comes to cleaning, protecting your asset is key. After all, a car is like our little treasure; maintaining it well ensures a pleasant drive every time we hit the road.


