Keeping your car clean, protected and preserving its paintwork and trims not only enhances its appearance. But this also helps to keep its value. At Autobrite Direct, we are die-hard car enthusiasts and understand the importance of keeping your car in the best condition possible. 

We’ve got some of the best hints, tips and tricks that our detailing team has learned and mastered over the years. They will help you to clean your car like an AD pro, and get awesome results every time. We’ve got you covered with the best practices and professional-grade supplies. 

Preparation of your products and equipment  

Probably the most boring part of detailing your car. BUT it’s arguably the most important step. Ensuring you’ve got all the products, polishes, tools and equipment you need to clean your car. This means you won’t need to run back and forth from the garage. Plus, it’s a great way of seeing what you’re running low on. 

Preparation of the vehicle 

Before going in with any AD products, it’s important to prepare your car. Start by rinsing your car thoroughly with water using a hose or pressure washer. These steps ensure that any loose debris, dirt, grime or mud is removed or even loosened. This prevents scratches during the washing process.

Snow foam for a contactless start 

We’re passionate about pre-washing any vehicle. A contactless start to the washing process means you do not use any mitt or brush in the initial stage. Instead, you will use a snow foam lance to apply AD snow foam. Snow Foams are an extremely effective product that lifts and softens grime and dirt. Making subsequent cleaning more effective, and reducing the chance of damaging paintwork. 

ALWAYS start with the wheels 

Wheels and tires are often overlooked but require special attention. They are the one part of a car which comes into direct contact with the road, meaning they are probably the dirtiest part of a car. We have a few wheel-cleaning product options which break down road grime, brake dust and other contaminants. For fantastic results, our wheel spoke brushes agitate the product and get to all hard-to-reach areas of your alloys and wheels. 

Two-bucket wash method 

Once you have completed the contactless wash stage, your car is now as well prepared as possible to begin the contact washing process. The two-bucket washing method is essential for preventing dirt and contaminants from being reintroduced into your car’s surface. Fill one bucket with water and Autobrite shampoo, and the other with clean water for rinsing your mitt. This means any dirt picked up on your mitt, is removed into one bucket, and not picked back up on the mitt. 

Gentle washing technique 

Our wash mitts are always made from the softest materials. This means that our mitts effectively capture dirt, leaving your car spotless, but also scratch-free. Gently wash your car’s exterior in straight lines or broad circular motions. Avoid applying excessive pressure, as it may cause swirl marks.

Clay bar treatment 

To achieve a truly flawless finish, we would urge you to consider using a clay bar from Autobrite. This helps to remove and pick up embedded contaminants that regular washing doesn’t remove. 

Take your time with polishing 

Polishing helps restore the paint’s shine and eliminates minor imperfections, bringing out the true brilliance of your car’s colour. AD’s range of polishing compounds and pads cater to different paint types and finishes. As well as the level of correction required, meaning you achieve a gloss mirror-like finish. 

Protect your car with wax! 

It’s SO important to finish off the car cleaning routine by protecting your car. This ensures that all of the hard work at removing contaminants and dirt is preserved. Waxes or sealants protect the paint from UV rays, contaminants, and environmental hazards. 

Don’t forget about the interior of the car 

Of course, making sure your car’s exterior is clean and protected is very important. But you don’t sit on the outside of the car. When you drive around, it’s important to ensure that your car’s interior is clean and polished. We offer an array of products for cleaning and protecting your car’s cabin, including dashboard cleaners, upholstery cleaners, and leather conditioners. By preserving the interior of your car, you’re not only preserving your investment but enhancing your overall driving experience. 

Detailing Courses 

Want to learn from the AD experts? Explore our detailing courses, where we offer something for complete beginners, those with some experience, and those wanting to become experts.

Cleaning your car like a professional is not as daunting as it seems. With the right Autobrite products and expert tips, you can achieve a stunning finish and keep your vehicle looking showroom-ready. Remember, regular maintenance and using high-quality detailing supplies are the keys to preserving your car’s appearance and value for years to come.