We all like to drive or be driven in a clean and sharp-looking car. Not only does it make us feel better, but it also retains more of its value if we decide to sell it. Most car owners treat their cars with due attention. One of the reasons might be the fact that they spent a lot of money on the purchase of their vehicle and they feel responsible for its maintenance and care. Only a car that has been properly maintained from day one can actually preserve much of its value over the years, because it’s the only way to actually keep the car in good shape. So, if you wish to have a well-maintained and looked-after car and to create a positive social impression, have a look at the following tips for detailing your car inside and outside.

Washing

Unfortunately, many people wash their car in a completely wrong way. They simply use a bucket of soapy water and a sponge, which may seem like a good idea, but it isn’t. Namely, dust and sand particles remain between the sponge and the surface of your car, thus creating a spider web pattern that affects the gloss. If you wish to do it properly, at least use two buckets, one with soapy and one with clean water for rinsing the sponge. Of course, the best result is not achieved using this method. Instead, find a special lamb’s wool or sheepskin car wash mitt. Finally, you should try to dry your car as soon as possible, but don’t use just any old towel. Get special drying towels, which you’ll spread on the surface to soak up the water, rather than rubbing it all over.

Claying

This procedure is used by professional detailers before waxing and polishing. Your car can benefit from it if it’s usually parked outside, at the mercy of the elements and tree sap. What is important to know is that standard washing can’t remove micro-contaminants, which are present even in clean cities such as Sydney. We are talking about microscopic rock particles, metallic residues, braking dust and other contaminants that are stuck onto your car paint. Special detailing clay absorbs them and keeps the surface smooth.

Waxing

The next step is waxing. This provides a mirror finish, but even more importantly, a protective layer that shields the paint from pollutants, such as acid rains and bird dropping. Needless to say, there are many waxes on the market and it’s not easy to choose the best one, which is why you should probably leave this job to professionals, such as these experts in great car detailing from Sydney. Ideally, a single application can last up to several months if all instructions are followed to the letter. You can also choose to invest more in your car detailing by opting for a state-of-the-art synthetic paint protection film, which can last for years. Its role is to maintain the gloss, while at the same time protecting your car from chemical and UV damage.

Interior is equally important

While some are happy enough to have the outside of their car spotlessly clean, only those who pay the same attention to the interior can expect their car to stay in great shape longer. One of the problems is that so many different materials have been used over the past several decades. The most popular materials now are synthetic carpets, natural and carbon fibres and different kinds of plastic. Each material requires a different kind of care and you have to know exactly which one is the best. You should vacuum the seats and mats and use special cleaners to remove stains and grease, but be careful that the product is safe for the surface you wish to clean. Although vacuuming removes a lot of dirt, the recommended method includes using compressed air to reach difficult spots. Rubber mats can also benefit from compressed air. Finally, silicon oil spray will keep rubber and plastic surfaces protected.

As you can see, some of these steps can be done by any car owner, while others are best left to professionals. After all, the most important thing is to get it right and protect your car in the best way possible.