What's the best way to clean your dirty car for a like-new result?
A car is exposed daily to rain, dust, insects, brake dust, tar, and road grime. A good car wash not only keeps your vehicle looking good but also protects the paint, prevents corrosion, and increases safety.
By always following the correct steps, you prevent scratches and keep your car in top condition for longer.
Prevents micro-scratches & swirls - The correct method protects the paint
Retains shine & color - UV, dirt and tar quickly attack unprotected paint
Increases safety - Clean windows, lighting and sensors work better
STEP 1: Preparation!
Move the car out of the sun and make sure it's cool to the touch. Fill two buckets:
- One with car shampoo: Q²M Bathe, Bathe+
- One with clean rinse water
- Always use Grit Guards to keep dirt at the bottom
STEP 2: Pre-wash!
A pre-wash removes 70–90% of dirt without touching it. Ideal for preventing scratches.
Apply foam with a foam lance, leave on and rinse.
STAP 3: Cleaning rims and tires!
Rims collect the most brake dust and deserve special attention before washing the bodywork.
Recommended products:
- Rim cleaner (acid-free)
- Rim brush / barrel brush
- Tire cleaner for rubber
STAP 4: Hand wash using the 2-bucket method!
Use a microfiber wash mitt and work from top to bottom. Never rub in a circular motion. Rinse your mitt in the rinse bucket each time and use fresh shampoo from the bucket.
STAP 5: Rinse and dry!
Rinse the car thoroughly from the top down. Then dry thoroughly to avoid limescale stains and streaks. Use a microfiber towel, or apply a sealant like Wetcoat and dry with a blow dryer.
STAP 6: Apply protection!
Protection makes the car dirt-repellent, easier to wash and provides a deep shine.
Recommended products:
- Spray sealant
- Quick detailer
- Wax or ceramic spray
- Plastic & trim protectors for bumpers and rubbers
Weekly or biweekly. In case of rain, salt, bird droppings, or insects: clean immediately.
Yes, at a safe distance and with a wide beam. Avoid direct pressure on rubbers and sensors.
It removes loose dirt without touching it. This prevents scratches during hand washing, reducing the chance of dirt being scraped onto your paintwork during hand washing.
A pH neutral shampoo that will not damage wax or sealants unless you need a strong degreaser before applying a new coat.
- Use pre-wash
- Two-bucket method
- Microfiber wash mitt
- Never sponge or use circular motions
Use a large microfiber cloth or air blower. Don't use old towels or chamois leather. When using an air blower, we recommend using a spray sealant like Q²M Wetcoat, which will create beading and speed up the drying process.
Usually every 4–12 weeks, depending on the type (wax, sealant, ceramic spray).
Preferably not. Shampoo dries too quickly and causes stains and streaks, which then burn in and can often only be removed with a polishing machine.
