Car grooming means spending hours sweating over your car to make it shine and glow. Right?
To a detailing enthusiast, the answer is a resounding yes. The phrase “no pain, no gain” certainly comes to mind.
But given our busy schedules, not everyone can spend so much time on their car. After all, we also have (some) other hobbies and interests.
So, here are a few tips to help you keep your car clean.
CAR GROOMING TIP #1: USE A HYDROPHOBIC COATING.
The next time you do wash your car, apply a hydrophobic coating to it before the final rinse.
Hydrophobic coatings make your car’s surface very slippery so that water will bead and run off. This helps prevent dirt from adhering to the surface.
It also means less time and effort spent wiping down your car. Which leads us to the second tip…
CAR GROOMING TIP #2: USE A QUICK DETAILER REGULARLY.
Quick detailers are formulated to lubricate and loosen dirt, making it easier to wipe off. A quick detailer also helps remove nasty bird poop before it etches into your paint.
Before your car has a chance to get dusty/dirty, use a quick detailer to give it a spray and wipe.
Depending on the brand of the product, it could add extra gloss to your paint. It could even top-up your existing coat of wax.
CAR GROOMING TIP #3: COVER YOUR CAR!
This is very obvious, but let’s be honest: How many of us would do this?
It’s troublesome. Imagine parking somewhere, alighting and proceeding to cover your car. You’d have to add an extra 10 minutes to your drive to every appointment.
But if you’re parked outdoors, you’re assured of good protection. If it rains, only your tyres will get wet. You won’t have to worry about the sun or bird poop either.
CAR GROOMING TIP #4: INSTALL A CLEAR PROTECTIVE FILM.
Many car owners are doing this. Protective films not only guard against dirt and bird poop. They can also (in a limited capacity) prevent chips and scratches.
The downside is the cost, as a quality film installed by professionals won’t be cheap. And depending on who is installing it, your car might be down for a day or more.
That said, you can look forward to easier/faster cleaning after it’s on. And you won’t have to worry about scratching your paint while doing it.
If protective films aren’t your thing, you should consider ceramic coatings.
