Top spec DIY guide to Car Valeting
At Top Spec we don’t currently offer Car Valeting as we specialise in Commercial Truck cleaning services.
What we can offer is a guide to assist you in helping you getting your car looking its best!
We have put together a Top Spec guide below to getting your car looking and smelling like its just come out of the showroom.
Full Car Cleaning Guide: Exterior and Interior Detailing
Exterior Cleaning
1. Pressure Washing the Car
Preparation: Ensure the car is parked in a shaded area to prevent soap from drying too quickly. Rinse off any loose dirt with water first.
Pre-Wash Rinse: Using a pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle (25° or 40°), start from the top and work your way down, maintaining a safe distance (about 30-60cm) to avoid damaging the paint. We recommend this Bosch pressure washer as it comes with the foam nozzle required.
Foam Application (optional but recommended): Attach a foam nozzle to your pressure washer and apply a layer of Snow foam. Let it dwell for a few minutes to loosen dirt.
Washing: Use a clean microfibre wash mitt and the two-bucket method (one for soapy water, one for rinsing or a hose pipe) to gently wash the vehicle.
Final Rinse: Rinse off all soap and residue thoroughly with the pressure washer.
2. Polishing the Car
Drying: Dry the car using microfibre drying towels or a blower to prevent water spots.
Paint Inspection: Check for swirls, scratches, or oxidation.
Polish Application: Use a dual-action polisher or by hand with a foam applicator pad. Apply a small amount of polish and work in small sections using overlapping motions.
Buffing: After the polish hazes, buff off with a clean microfibre towel to reveal a glossy, smooth finish.
3. Cleaning Alloy Wheels
Wheel Cleaner: Spray a dedicated alloy wheel cleaner onto dry wheels.
Agitation: Use soft wheel brushes to clean spokes, lug nuts, and inner barrels.
Rinse: Thoroughly rinse with the pressure washer, ensuring all cleaner and dirt are removed.
4. Blackening the Tyres
Dry Tyres: Make sure tyres are clean and dry before applying dressing.
Tyre Dressing: Use a foam applicator to apply tyre gel or spray evenly around the sidewalls.
Finish: Allow to dry for a glossy or matte finish depending on the product used. Wipe off any excess to avoid sling onto bodywork.
Interior Cleaning
1. Remove Rubbish and Mats
Take out all rubbish and remove the floor mats. Shake or vacuum them separately.
2. Vacuuming
Vacuum the seats, carpets, under seats, and in crevices using appropriate attachments. Use a soft brush attachment for delicate areas like vents and dashboards.
3. Cleaning Surfaces
Dashboard, Console & Doors: Use an interior cleaner and microfibre cloth to wipe down all plastic, vinyl, and leather surfaces.
Detailing Brushes: Use small, soft detailing brushes to clean buttons, vents, and seams.
Glass: Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner to clean the inside of all windows and mirrors.
4. Deep Clean Upholstery (if needed)
For fabric seats: Use a fabric cleaner or spot cleaner vacuum.
For leather seats: Use a leather cleaner and conditioner with a soft brush and microfiber towel.
5. Deodorize
Use an odour eliminator spray or place an air freshener inside the car to leave it smelling fresh.
This process leaves the car looking showroom-ready inside and out.