An expert wax job adds a stunning luster to your car. No matter if it's natural wax such as carnauba or synthetic polymers like POR-15 that you choose, there are certain steps you need to follow to get optimal results. Start by applying a small amount of product with your foam applicator or damp microfiber cloth, working section by section until the wax dries or hazes according to its instructions.
Wash
Your car may be covered in dirt and grime that needs to be washed away for it to shine properly. Utilizing proper washing techniques and car-friendly soap are essential in maintaining its pristine appearance and keeping its paint in tip top shape. Use a bucket filled with soap-containing water designed specifically for car washing, then use a wash mitt to agitate its surface. Work in small sections rinsing off and cleaning as you go to prevent too much soap drying out too quickly. Remember to use another mitt or sponge for tire and wheel cleaning (including rubber parts as well as metal or coated alloy rims). Once finished with washing your car, use a hose without a nozzle to provide an extensive rinse to avoid water spots or swirl marks. Let the excess water drain away naturally before drying it with either a chamois cloth or microfiber towel from top-to-bottom in order not to rewet previously dried areas. Once the wax has set, buff it using a microfiber cloth for an excellent shine. You may wish to add essential oils for fragrance or other properties as desired; otherwise you should store it in a cool, dry area in order to preserve its contents and prevent heat build-up. Including homemade car wax in your routine will showcase your pride in an eco-friendly manner while saving both money and the planet!
Clay Bar
Once your car has been thoroughly washed, it should look incredible and feel silky smooth to the touch. Unfortunately, bugs, bird droppings, road grime and hard water spots may remain embedded underneath its wax layer, dulling its showroom shine and depriving it of that flawless appearance. Clay bars can help remove these contaminants for good and leave it as smooth as glass! To use a clay bar, spray a panel of the body with lubricant (like quick detailer or clay lubricant) and gently move your clay over it in an back-and-forth motion, so as to capture any contaminants on its way away from the panel. After each panel has been covered with clay, fold and knead the clay bar together so as to expose a clean working surface before continuing use - make sure there is plenty of lubrication or else the risk of scratched paint exists! Once the clay has pulled out all contaminants, use a microfiber towel to wipe away any leftover lubricant and ensure your paint surface is free from any grit or abrasion - if this is the case then wax or sealant can be applied directly. No matter if you use a sponge or directly, when applying wax it's important to spread an even coat across all the area you are treating. Allow it to haze over for the time specified by the bottle (usually 5-10 minutes) before buffing it away with a soft cotton rag and be mindful not to rub too vigorously as this could leave swirl marks.
Preparation
Before beginning the waxing process, ensure you have all of the supplies needed. This should include fresh microfiber towels, the foam applicator pad that came with your wax, car washing tools and supplies as well as an excellent microfiber drying towel. In addition, be sure to use glass containers when storing wax as direct sunlight can destabilize it and be mindful of when placing it under direct sun rays. When applying wax, work in a shaded area away from direct sunlight. Use an applicator pad to apply one glob of product and spread it out over your paintwork evenly; two dollar-sized amounts should suffice per 2'x2' section of vehicle - over-slathering can make removal more difficult! If you're working on a dark colored car, try using a wax designed specifically for it. These products contain special additives designed to increase shine while hiding any swirl marks or scratches caused by poor washing techniques or hasty drying. Before finishing, lightly run your finger along the paint to see if there are any rough spots; if so, decontaminate further before proceeding.
Wax
Waxing your car regularly will help achieve that pristine showroom shine, and provide protection from UV rays, dirt, and moisture damage. A quality car wax should also provide UV ray protection as well. Before beginning, read through your product instructions to ascertain how long each coat should cure before application. Some types of wax require longer than others for complete cure; typically however, foam applicators or microfiber cloth should be used to apply and buff away from 2' x 2' sections using thin coats ensuring you do not leave streaks. Once finished, allow the wax to set for one to two minutes before using a clean microfiber towel to wipe off the haze using circular motions. Be mindful to swap out towels frequently to avoid temptation of reapplying wax that was just removed! Are you in search of an economical alternative to commercial products, like car wax? DIY car wax can provide you with natural ingredients that are healthier for both you and the environment, saving both money and hassle! To begin making it, find a temperature controlled wax melter in a well ventilated space, then gradually melt beeswax over low heat while slowly adding coconut oil for extra gloss, conditioning and protection.
