Doing a car wash at home in Sharjah might seem like a smart way to save time and money. You skip the queues, avoid paying for every rinse, and get the satisfaction of doing it yourself. But here is the thing, if you are not careful, you could end up damaging your car’s paint, leaving behind streaks, or even causing lasting damage. That is why many people prefer having a professional car wash service in Sharjah handle the job for them instead. It not only cleans their car, but also protects it for the long term.
11 Things You Could Be Doing Wrong During a Home Car Wash
Here are eleven things you could be doing wrong during a car wash at home in Sharjah that can cause vehicle damage.
1. Skipping the Pre-Rinse
Many car owners start wiping or scrubbing their vehicles without rinsing first before a wash. Though it seems like a faster way of cleaning the car, there might be existing dirt and grit that can damage the paint if wiped or scrubbed too harshly. A quick rinse clears debris for a safer wash.
2. Rinsing with Tap Water
Rinsing your car with Sharjah’s tap water, which is high in minerals, and letting it air dry, can lead to white spots, streaks, and long-term paint staining. Using filtered or deionized water is recommended, as they give the best results.
3. Using a Dish Soap
Don’t wash your car with dish soap. It removes grease but does not protect paint. It can strip wax and sealants, leaving paint vulnerable to sunlight, dirt, and pollution. Go for car shampoo instead, because it is gentle on the car’s surface.
4. Washing in Direct Sunlight
Midday sun may feel perfect, but it can ruin your wash by causing spots and streaks. Wash in shade or cooler hours.
5. Reusing a Dirty Sponge
Using a previously used sponge risks rubbing grit into your paint. So, always check your washing kit carefully before you wash, and choose fresh microfiber sponges for a scratch-free wash.
6. Using One Bucket for Soap Water & Rinsing
Never use one bucket for soap water and rinsing, because it will cause dirt to come back onto your car. Instead, use two buckets; one for clean soapy water and one for rinsing. It is a simple switch that prevents extra effort you may have to put in to get rid of those dirty streaks.
7. Scrubbing in Circles
Many people scrub in circles because it feels natural, but circular motions create swirl marks, those annoying light-reflecting scratches that dull your car’s finish.
For that reason, do it in straight lines from top to bottom, as it will spread the soap evenly and keep dirt from dragging across clean areas.
8. Not Washing the Wheels & Tyres
Wheels and tyres are dirt magnets and hold a lot of dust, road grime, and salt build up. Not washing them can cause corrosion in wheels and cracks or discoloration in tyres. Hence, make sure to clean them, and use a separate brush and cleaner for both.
Don’t forget to clean the wheel wells and the area around the lug nuts, too.
9. Holding the Pressure Washer Too Close
Pressure washers are strong; holding them too close can peel paint or damage seals. When using one, always keep the nozzle about a foot away and stick to a wide spray. Also, avoid spraying directly on sensors, trims, or rubber seals.
10. Neglecting Undercarriage Cleaning
Salt and sand build up beneath vehicles in Sharjah, eventually causes rust and corrosion, so washing the undercarriage is critical.
If uncertain about how to do it, simply flush it with a hose, and be sure to water the suspension, wheel wells, and exhaust as well. Doing so will improve both the durability and overall performance of your car.
11. Drying the Wrong Way
Many people in Sharjah let their vehicles air dry. While it may seem safe, minerals in water leave deposits on paint and dull the finish. Moreover, using rough towels for drying can also scratch and damage car finish. So, always pat dry with microfiber towels, working quickly after rinsing to avoid spots.
Conclusion
A DIY car wash in Sharjah can be cost-effective, but only if done correctly and with care. If you rush the job, use the wrong tools, skip proper drying, or overlook hidden dirt, you could damage the exterior paint. Ultimately, that could lead to costly repairs that outweigh the price of a professional wash.
So, let experts take care of your car using specialized techniques right at your doorstep and book a car wash at home in Sharjah through the ServiceMarket website or app. It is convenient, and reliable.
