Essential Supplies for Detailing

Before you begin the detailing process here’s what you should have in your hands:

Microfiber towels: To prevent scratches and leave a streak-free finish to your car exterior.

Two buckets: One bucket for clean water and another for rinsing dirt to minimize swirl marks on your paint.

pH-balanced car shampoo: Formulated to remove dirt without stripping away protective coatings.

Clay bar kit: Removes embedded contaminants such as road tar, tree sap, and industrial fallout from the paint.

Paint sealant or ceramic coating: Provides long-term protection against environmental pollutants and UV rays.

Glass cleaner with hydrophobic properties: Enhances visibility and repels water to improve safety in wet conditions.

Vacuum cleaner with brush attachments: Essential for removing dust, crumbs, and debris from carpets and upholstery.

Leather conditioner or fabric protectant: Maintains the integrity of interior surfaces, preventing cracks and discoloration.

Wheel cleaner and tire dressing: Restores the shine of wheels and adds a protective layer against brake dust and road grime.

Trim restorer: For faded plastic and rubber trims, preventing sun damage and brittleness.

Step By Step Detailing Process to Prepare Your Car For Spring

The winter season leaves behind corrosive salt, grime, and road chemicals that can damage both your paint and undercarriage. Here’s how to clean the exterior of your car after a harsh winter:

Exterior Deep Cleaning and Protection

Thorough Wash to Remove Winter Residues

Start with a pre-rinse using a pressure washer or hose to loosen debris.

Use the two-bucket car wash method (one bucket with clean soapy water and another with rinse water) to prevent dirt from being reintroduced to your car’s surface.

Pay extra attention to hidden areas, such as wheel wells, the underside of your car, and door jambs where grime tends to accumulate.

Avoid high-pressure washes directly on paint chips or weak spots, as water pressure can worsen existing imperfections.

Decontaminate Paint with Clay Bar Treatment

Even after washing, microscopic contaminants can remain embedded in your paint, affecting its smoothness and shine.

Spray lubricant generously onto the paint before using the clay bar to prevent scratches.

Work in small sections, gently gliding the clay bar over the surface until it feels smooth.

Check our detailed guide on How to Clay Bar a Car