Keeping your car clean not only makes it look better but also helps maintain its value and will make its paint, plastics etc all last longer. The process below was used by SC Mobile Detailing for the 'Fresh Valet' maintenance wash for over 5 years.

GATHER SUPPLIES

For a basic safe maintenance wash you need: 

• Car Shampoo
• Pre-Wash
• Snow foam
• 2 Buckets
• Wash Mitt
• Wheel Cleaner
• Wheel Brushes
• Wheel Specific Bucket
• Pressure Washer (or regular hose)

After assembling all necessary supplies, you are ready to start.

1. PRE WASH 

Apply Pre-Wash solution:

Apply your  favoured pre-wash formula, apc or similar, focusing on the dirtier areas of the car such as the lower body and front bumper and allow it to dwell. 

OPTINAL EXTRA - Apply wheel cleaner: 

At this early stage you can also spray the alloys and tyres with the appropriate cleaners to make the contact wash easier and faster.

Snow foam soak:

Apply a thick snow foam layer over the pre wash to help break down dirt and naturally pull it off and down.

Rinse thoroughly: 

Starting from the top and working your way down rinse to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents dirt from scratching the paint during the contact wash phase.

2. CONTACT WASH 

Two bucket method: 

Fill two buckets with clean water. Add car shampoo to one of the buckets, this will be your wash bucket and the other for rinsing you wash mitt after each use.

Wash top to bottom: 

Start from the roof and work your way down to avoid dragging dirt from the lower, dirtier, parts of the car onto the upper panels. 

Some tips for this step: Use straight line motions with your wash mitt and rinse it often.

3. WHEELS

Apply wheel cleaner: 

Apply a dedicated wheel cleaner or a mild solution of car shampoo and water to the wheels.

Agitation: 

Use a soft-bristle brush to clean the wheels, paying attention to brake dust and dirt build-up if needed.

4. FINAL RINSE AND DRY

Rinse: 

Once you’ve washed the car, rinse off all the soap with water. Ensure all the suds are removed from every panel.

Drying the car: 

To avoid water spots, keep the car cleaner longer and simply provide a better finished look dry the car with a drying towel. Be gentle and use a separate towel or cloth to dry the wheels and tires. A Hybrid Detailer or drying aid can be used to make the process faster and easier as well as adding a layer of protection and shine in some cases.

5. FINISHING TOUCHES

OPTINAL EXTRA - Wax and protections: 

After fully washing and drying your car this is the stage where any waxes, protections or sealants etc should be added.

Windows and Glass: 

Use a streak-free automotive glass cleaner to clean the windows inside and out. Use a separate cloth for applying and buffing the glass for the best results.

Inspect the car: 

Always take a final few seconds check over your work for any missed spots, streaks or residue.

Remember to chose the correct environment. For best results wash your car in a shaded area or on an overcast day to prevent water spots. Direct sunlight can cause soap and water to dry too quickly, leaving stains or streaks and generally making the job harder than it needs to be. Ensure the car is cool to the touch before washing. If the surface is too hot, the soap or water can evaporate too quickly and cause streaking.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

• Avoid automatic car washes
• Use proper microfiber cloths (not old shirts or dish cloths etc)
• Don’t wash in extreme temperatures