Before detailing your vehicle, there is a car detailing checklist you’ll want to follow, which will help ensure that the job is done right and that your automobile will look like it came off the showroom floor.
Interior
Polish Your Console and Dashboard
Take a microfiber cloth that is damp then wipe the whole dashboard surface to eliminate dust. Apply an interior-based cleanser or regular glass cleaner in the chamois so that accumulated grime is removed. Be sure to brush away any dust which is present inside the vent or between the radio buttons.
Polish Your Steering Wheel
Use an antibacterial cleansing solution to wipe down your steering wheel. Then spray the vinyl protectant in the applicator, while avoiding your steering wheel or dashboard to stop overspray in the upholstery or glass. Wipe carefully, let the protectant soak inside for three to five minutes, and then buff the console and dashboard dry using the microfiber cloth.
Cleanse Interior Mirrors and Glass
As the automobile ages, you might notice that the glass is less clear, which can make it difficult for occupants to see outside. Apply a premium glass cleaner on all exterior windows.
Replace or Wash Floor Mats
Remove the floor mats and then vacuum underneath. You’ll either need to wash the mats themselves inside a washing machine or replace them with newer ones if they’re too badly worn.
De-stain Your Seats
Standard car seats readily absorb stains, so they’ll need to be de-stained. Before doing that however you’ll need to vacuum the debris and use standard laundry detergent for washing regular fabric sheets. Dish soap does a great job of lifting grease stains. For leather, you’ll need to use carnauba wax or a protectant.
Exterior
Beginning Surface Wash
Properly restoring a vehicular paint job begins with a good wash. Start from the top then work your way down to avoid streaks. Once you’ve washed and rinsed, prepare for waxing through drying using a towel that is soft.
Waxing and Buffing
Wax using a premium brand with a foam application pad. Work in 2×2 foot areas, adding smaller wax amounts that are similar to the U.S. dollar in terms of size. Use overlapping strokes that are circular yet small. After the wax has dried, apply a softer towel so the residue is eliminated. Do not expose the wax to direct sunlight.
Waxing and Cleaning Tires and Wheels
There are numerous wheel cleaners on the market, so it’s crucial to get the correct one. Some work well for aluminum wheels, while others are designed for chrome. If you aren’t sure which option is best, use a cleaner that is all-purpose. These cleaners are made to loosen the brake dust which enters the rubber pores.
Rinse the wheels carefully using cold water, and then apply the wheel cleanser. Give it fifteen seconds to penetrate, and if the wheels are exceptionally dirty, you might need a wheel brush to scrub them. Rinse carefully then repeat in each wheel. After you’re done, add another protective layer of wheel wax coat.