Car Wash6 pro tips for DIY car detailing
A car is a top investment. It takes time and care to maintain it properly.
One of the ways you can extend the life (and resale value) of your vehicle is by keeping it clean.
We always recommend our top wash (The WORKS) because it includes our Ceramic Body Wax® for the best protection. If you wash weekly with a TommyClub membership, you’ll keep the grit at bay and add a layer of protection to your exterior.
But don’t forget the inside of your vehicle! Wash Me Now mobile detailing in Toronto has some great ideas about how often to clean your vehicle interior. Here are our top tips for DIY car detailing and cleaning.
1. Be intentional with your car detailing toolkit
It’s important to gather the right car detailing supplies. We recommend:
- A microfiber dusting cloth.
- A soft brush. Whether you use a toothbrush, a paintbrush, or a special detail brush, you’ll need something to get into the crevices.
- Q-tips. This is an expert-level item. Promise, you’ll be grateful you grabbed a handful.
- Glass cleaner.
- General purpose cleaner.
- Leather conditioner (if applicable).
- If you’re on-site at one of our Tommy’s Express car wash locations, it’s worthwhile to purchase one of our detail kits at the vacuum stations. Prices vary by location, but it’s a convenient way to spruce up your interior for a minimal cost. The detail kit includes a glass cleaner, surface cleaner, two air fresheners, and a microfiber cloth.
2. Detail tip: Remove all your stuff
This tip may sound obvious, but once you’ve accidentally sucked up a coin, glove, or shoestring, you’ll understand. Do a thorough sweep of the seats, cup holders, console, back hatch, pockets, and doors. Dispose of any trash, return items to their rightful place in your home or garage, and find a good car caddy or system to keep your important travel items all in one place.
3. Detail tip: Start at the top
Most vehicle owners grab a vacuum to start cleaning. We’re going to flip that idea. Start at your dash and work your way down. The dust you displace will travel down and settle, so it makes the most sense to start at the top and end at the bottom.
We highly recommend a microfiber towel. Microfiber traps and absorbs dust better than a towel or cotton rag. It makes the job faster and easier.
After you dust, use a general-purpose cleaner or wipe to get every surface. If your car seats are leather, use a leather conditioner to keep them from cracking. Make sure to follow manufacturer instructions and set a reminder to maintain your leather.
4. Detail tip: Get all the crevices
Use a brush to clean any small crevices like air vents, door handles, dash displays, and your console. Stubborn or small areas may need a Q-tip to reach. If you have coffee spills or sticky stains, spray some cleaner and let it sit and soak in for a minute.
5. Detail tip: Clean your windows
Curious hands (or feet!) may have left smudges on the inside of your car windows. Spray a glass cleaner (or use the glass cleaner wipe from the detail kit) to make your interior as shiny as your window exterior. Don’t forget the back windows near any kid car seats!
6. Detail tip: Use free car vacuums and mat washers
Whether you’re cleaning up after a weekend away or visiting for your weekly car wash, make sure to complete the clean with our car vacuums and mat washers! If your aim is for efficiency, start cleaning your mats while you vacuum. Vacuum your seats and surfaces before you start on the footwell.
Tommy’s Express offers the best car wash for vehicles of all shapes and sizes. Our conveyor belt entry accommodates low-profile vehicles and wide dual-rear-wheel trucks as well. Through years of development, our soft-touch car wash uses specialized processes to get every car clean, shiny, and dry.
Next time you wash at Tommy’s Express, plan an intentional time to do your interior car detailing. We can help you look your best, inside and out!