INDEPENDENT DEALER

   Idaho Falls, ID | (208) 524-0322

OUR BLOG

5/15/2023
Keeping your vehicle clean and organized is just as crucial as keeping it well-maintained mechanically. For a step-by-step guide on how to clean your car, keep reading this post by Schell Distributing Inc in Idaho Falls.

Cleaning your car once a month is as important as changing its oil or checking its tire pressure. We all know that a regular wash can help improve a vehicle's aesthetic appeal, but that's not all. Keeping your car nice and clean can help prolong its life and maintain its resale value. Of course, deep cleaning your rig may seem like a daunting task, especially if you don't know where to start. That's why this post will take you through a step-by-step on how to clean your car inside and out. So, read on if you want to keep your vehicle looking spotless and like new all year round!

When it's time for your next oil service, switch to the best synthetic oil change in Idaho Falls! To explore all the top-shelf products AMSOIL offers, stop by the online store or call Schell Distributing Inc at (208) 524-0322.

How to Deep Clean Your Car

Before You Get Started

Before cleaning your vehicle, gather all the necessary tools and supplies. These include:
  • Hose or pressure washer
  • A couple of buckets
  • Soft-bristled brushes
  • Microfiber towels or chamois
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Glass cleaner
  • Leather cleaner
  • Upholstery cleaner
  • Tire cleaner
With the above in mind, avoid using dishwasher soap or other household cleaners to clean your car. These products can contain harsh chemicals that scratch and damage the vehicle's paint. So, instead, use products specifically formulated for automotive use.

Step 1: Exterior Cleaning

Step one is to rinse your car's exterior with a hose or pressure washer. Then, fill a bucket with water and a car cleaning solution. Use this mix to scrub the car's surface with a soft-bristled brush. Start at the top and clean your way down to remove loose dirt and debris from the surface. Pay special attention to the wheels and tires, and use a tire cleaner and brush to remove brake dust and other contaminants from these elements. Rinse the car thoroughly, making sure to remove all soap residue.

Step 2: Drying the Exterior

Once you've rinsed the car's paint, dry it thoroughly with microfiber towels or chamois. Doing so will prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the rig's surface.

Step 3: Wax the Paint

Once the car's paint is dry, wax it to protect it and give it a shiny finish. Apply a small amount of wax to a foam applicator pad and rub it onto the car's paint in a circular motion. Apply the wax one panel at a time, and allow it to dry to a haze, which usually takes 10-15 minutes. Then, use a clean, dry microfiber towel to buff the wax off the car's paint in a circular motion. Be sure to use a separate towel for the wheels and tires to avoid cross-contamination.

Using quality products to clean your car is vital to get the best results! Try AMSOIL's Miracle Wash Waterless Wash and Wax Spray to protect your vehicle's surfaces against dirt and debris. To buy this and other advanced cleaners & protectants, visit AMSOIL's online store or call Schell Distributing Inc in Idaho Falls at (208) 524-0322.

Step 4: Interior Cleaning

Next up, remove all the trash and clutter from your car's interior. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and debris from the seats, floor mats, and carpets. Then, use an upholstery cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to scrub and remove stains on the seats and carpets. If your car has leather seats, use a leather cleaner and conditioner to maintain shine and softness. Clean the dashboard and other hard surfaces with a damp microfiber towel, ensuring you don't use too much water that could cause damage.

Step 5: Glass Cleaning

By this point, use a glass cleaner and a microfiber towel to clean your car's windows. Wipe the glass in a circular motion, applying gentle pressure to remove dirt or grime. To avoid cross-contamination, use a separate towel for the inside and outside of the glass. After wiping the glass with the cleaner, use a dry microfiber towel to buff the glass to a streak-free shine. Remove any excess cleaner or moisture from the glass to prevent streaking.

Step 6: Final Touches

After cleaning your car, take a step back and evaluate its overall appearance. Look for any spots you may have missed, and touch up as needed. You can also use a tire shine product to give your tires extra shine and protect them from cracking and fading.

Protect your engine against premature wear and overheating by feeding it with the best synthetic oil in Idaho Falls. If you need advice on which oil formula works best for your rig, call Schell Distributing Inc at (208) 524-0322 anytime. For a closer look at AMSOIL's top-shelf products, check out the online store today!