Will Washing a Car with Laundry Detergent Damage the Paint?
2 Answers
Washing a car with laundry detergent can damage the paint. Laundry detergent is an alkaline cleaning agent that can cause significant harm to car paint, leading to scratches. Improper car washing can damage the paint: Some car owners prefer using a single bucket of water and one towel to wash the entire car. By the end, the water is full of dirt and sand, which then coats the towel. Wiping the car with this towel can cause scratches. Over time, these small scratches accumulate, leaving the entire car's paint full of marks. Acid rain can damage the paint: Acid rain contains a large amount of acidic substances that are highly corrosive. When they come into contact with car paint, they can make the surface dull, oxidized, or discolored. In severe cases, the acid can even begin to corrode the paint, causing it to peel off. If rain stains on the car body are not rinsed off with clean water promptly, prolonged exposure can damage the car's paint.
Yes, washing your car with laundry detergent might damage the paint, and I’ve learned this the hard way. Last year, to save money, I used household laundry detergent to wash my car a few times. At first, it seemed fine, but soon the paint became dull, and the shine faded quickly. Laundry detergent is too alkaline and can corrode the protective layer on the car’s paint because it’s designed to remove grease but is too harsh for automotive finishes. Car paint requires pH-neutral cleaners to maintain durability. Long-term use of laundry detergent can lead to oxidation, fine scratches, or even fading. Later, I switched to a dedicated car wash soap and used a soft brush, which helped restore the finish. I’d advise against taking the risk—choosing the right car wash products is more hassle-free and safer. Regular waxing also helps strengthen protection against sunlight and stains, saving you the cost of expensive paint repairs later. Remember to rinse off any residue thoroughly with clean running water when washing—don’t cut corners.
