A ceramic coating on your car will provide long-term protection for the paint. To maximize the benefits, you must use the right washing technique. Incorrect washing can cause the coating to degrade, decreasing its effectiveness with time. This guide will cover all you need to wash your car to maintain the glossy finish and ensure durability.
1. How to wash your car after ceramic coating
You must let the ceramic coating cure properly after applying it. The typical curing time is 24 to 48 hrs, although some coatings may require as much as two weeks. During this time:
- Do not wash your car with chemicals or water.
- Avoid exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as rain, dust and extreme temperatures.
- Use a microfiber cloth dry to remove dust if necessary.
After the coating is fully cured you can wash as usual, but be sure to follow best practices in order to avoid damage.
2. Recommended Washing Frequency
Wash your car once or twice a week to maintain the hydrophobic properties of the ceramic coating. Regular cleaning will prevent contaminants such as dirt, bird droppings and tree sap from adhering to the surface. This can reduce the effectiveness of the coating over time.
3. The Right Car Wash Method
A. Two-Bucket Hand Washing Method (Recommended).
Two-bucket washing is the safest, most effective and least damaging way to wash ceramic-coated cars. It reduces the chances of scratching and swirl marks.
Materials Required:
- Ceramic-safe, pH-neutral car wash soap
- Two buckets: one for the rinse water and another for the clean water
- Grit guards
- Soft microfiber washing mitt
- Microfiber towels of high quality
- Pressure washer or hose equipped with a foam gun (optional).
Step-by-Step Process:
- Wash the car thoroughly
- Remove loose dirt or debris with a pressure cleaner or hose.
- This helps to prevent scratching when washing hands.
- Use a foam cannon (Optional, but recommended)
- A foam cannon will pre-soak the car in suds.
- Before handwashing, this will loosen dirt and contaminants.
- Prepare the Two-Bucket System
- Fill a bucket with soapy, clean water.
- Fill the second bucket up with clean rinsing water and place the grit guard on the bottom.
- Wash Using a Microfiber Mitt
- Use a mitt to wash your car gently in a straight line. Avoid circular motions.
- The mitt should be rinsed in the bucket of clean water before being re-dipped into the soap bucket.
- Wash the car thoroughly
- Remove all soap residue with a pressure washer or hose.
- Be sure to remove all soap residue, which can cause streaks and water marks.
- Use a microfiber towel or an air dryer to dry
- Dry the surface with a soft, clean microfiber towel. Do not rub.
- Use a touchless air-dryer to remove the water without any contact.
4. Avoid these Common Mistakes
- Avoid automatic car washes
- The rotating brushes in tunnel car washes can cause microscratches that will eventually degrade the paint.
- When necessary, choose a car wash without brushes that uses soap and high-pressured water.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or dish soap:
- Hydrophobic properties of ceramic coatings are stripped away by harsh detergents.
- Use only pH-neutral car wash products designed for ceramic coated vehicles.
- Do not wash in direct sunlight
- If you wash in direct sunlight, water spots and soap residue can dry out too fast.
- Wash your hands in the shade, or at cooler times of the day.
5. Maintaining Hydrophobic Property
Follow these extra care steps to maintain the ceramic coating’s hydrophobic property at its peak performance:
- Use a ceramic boost spray:
- Apply a ceramic maintenance mist every 2 to 3 washings to improve water beading.
- Avoid Hard Water:
- Wash the coating with filtered or deionized distilled water to avoid mineral deposits.
- Every 4 to 6 months, wash with Clay Bars and Decontamination Wash
- Over time, contaminants can bond to the surface. The smoothness of the surface can be restored by using a clay bar or mild iron remover.
6. Seasonal considerations
- Winter Care
- Road salt can accelerate the degradation of ceramic coatings. Wash your car more often during winter months.
- Remove salt from the undercarriage using an undercarriage washer.
- Summer Care
- Water spots can be caused by UV exposure or high temperatures. Dry the car as soon as possible after washing.
It is important to wash your car after applying ceramic coating. This will ensure that it lasts and works properly. You can keep your car in pristine condition for many years by using the two bucket wash method. Regular washing and gentle cleaning will keep your ceramic-coated vehicle protected, shiny, and hydrophobic.
This post was written by a professional at Ceramic Pro St. Petersburg | Auto Luxe Florida. https://autoluxeflorida.com/ is your premier destination for high-end auto and marine protection. Specializing in ceramic coatings, paint protection film (PPF), and window tinting, we help safeguard your vehicle’s exterior from Florida’s harsh elements. Our expert team applies industry-leading Ceramic Pro coatings for unmatched gloss, durability, and protection against UV rays, scratches, and contaminants. We also offer precision-cut PPF to shield against rock chips and debris, along with premium window tinting for enhanced privacy and heat reduction. Whether you’re protecting a luxury car, daily driver, or boat, we deliver top-tier results with meticulous attention to detail.