Maintaining your ceramic-coated vehicle isn’t complicated, but using the right techniques and products is essential to preserve its hydrophobic properties and shine. Improper washing can degrade the coating, leading to water spots, swirl marks, and reduced protection.
Follow this step-by-step guide to keep your ceramic coating in top condition for years to come.
STEP 1: START WITH A THOROUGH RINSE
Before washing, always rinse the vehicle thoroughly to remove loose dirt and contaminants that could scratch the paint.
- Use a pressure washer or a water hose with a foam cannon attachment for best results.
- Foam bath is highly recommended to lift dirt off the surface before touching it with a wash mitt.
STEP 2: CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOAP
Not all car soaps are safe for ceramic-coated vehicles. Using a pH-neutral, high-lubricity soap will cleanse the surface without degrading the coating.
- Recommended: Adams Blue Car Wash Soap (not sponsored) or any high-quality ceramic-safe soap.
- Alternative: 5-Gallon Nano Suds Soap, designed for deep cleansing without stripping protection.
STEP 3: USE THE THREE-BUCKET METHOD
To minimize scratches and swirl marks, the three-bucket method is the safest approach:
- Bucket 1: Wash Bucket – Filled with clean, soapy water.
- Bucket 2: Rinse Bucket – To rinse off the wash mitt before dipping back into the wash bucket.
- Bucket 3: Wheel Bucket – Dedicated solely to cleaning wheels, keeping brake dust and grime away from the paint.
Note: If you want to simplify, you can use two buckets, but three is highly recommended for reducing contamination.
STEP 4: APPLY A FOAM BATH (OPTIONAL BUT RECOMMENDED)
A foam bath adds extra lubrication and removes more debris before physically touching the vehicle.
- Option 1 Double Foam (Recommended): Foam the vehicle, rinse, then foam again before using the wash mitt.
- Option 2 Single Foam: Foam the vehicle once, rinse, then begin washing.
STEP 5: USE A MICROFIBER WASH MITT OR PLUSH MICROFIBER RAG
Never use sponges or low-quality rags, as they can trap dirt and cause micro-scratches. Instead, use a soft microfiber wash mitt or plush microfiber rag to safely clean the paint.
- Recommended: Microfiber wash mitt for maximum paint safety.
STEP 6: CLEAN WHEELS SEPARATELY
Your wheels collect the most brake dust, grime, and contaminants, so they should be washed separately from the rest of the vehicle.
- Use a dedicated wheel cleaning tool and a separate bucket.
- Do not use the same mitt or towel for wheels and paint.
STEP 7: FINAL RINSE
Once the wash is complete, do a final thorough rinse using deionized water if available. This will help prevent water spots and ensure all soap residue is removed.
STEP 8: DRY THE VEHICLE PROPERLY
Air drying alone is not enough. Leaving water to evaporate on its own can cause water spots, which dull the coating over time.
Recommended drying method:
- Use a leaf blower or a wet/dry vacuum in blower mode to remove excess water.
- Follow up with a plush microfiber drying towel for a streak-free finish.
Detailing Spray: Use Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine as a final touch to remove any residual streaks and add extra slickness.
FINAL TOUCH: CHEMICAL GUYS PLUSH TOWELS FOR STREAK-FREE RESULTS
For a perfect, streak-free finish, use Chemical Guys plush microfiber towels to wipe down any remaining moisture or residue.