Waxing is generally your last step in detailing your own car. Waxing ensures your finish is not only protected from the elements, it will also really bring out the paint. Before you even think about waxing your car, you need to make sure you’ve washed and dried the car completely. Check out our other article How To Wash Your Car for more information on washing. If the car isn’t completely dry you will run into issues with streaking later on and have to start all over. Which can be time consuming! Typically you should avoid washing and waxing on extremely sunny days for the same reason.

Start off by dampening a small sponge and applying a small amount of wax directly onto the sponge. Avoid using pressure when applying or removing the wax. Obviously you should follow the directions given on the specific wax you’ve decided to use, but most of the different brands use the same steps for applying and removing wax. In a clockwise circular motion, spread the wax evenly over every section of the car, starting from top to bottom. Some waxes work on windows, but always consult with the label or manufacturer before using it. You will need to make sure you avoid getting the wax on black plastic trim, as it can strain.

Allow the wax to dry. Once the wax is hazy and rubs off gently with your finger it should be finished. This time take a clean cloth and buff out the wax in a counter clock wise direction. Use small circles to buff the wax off the car. Switch towels periodically throughout the process so you’re not putting wax back onto the car. Avoid adding embarrassing swirls or scratches by gently buffing out the wax. Don’t use pressure when applying or removing it.

Once you’re finished, go over the entire surface one more time with a clean towel. You have to make sure you buff out all of the remaining wax. The last thing you want is streaks because you didn’t take the time to ensure it was done correctly and thoroughly. Once finished you can follow up with a quick detailer to clean up any missed spots.

That’s it! You’ve now applied a protective shield that will protect your car’s finish. It’s extremely easy and affordable to have a professional quality wax on your car. We recommend re-waxing every 6-12 months or when water no longer beads on the surface.

Choosing when and where to wash your car is the first thing you’ll need to do when starting out. Typically you want to avoid direct sunlight, as the water can dry quickly and cause streaking. It’s best to wash your car on a calm day, with relatively no wind as it can put dust in the air.

Start by mixing the soap according to the directions. We recommend having 2 buckets, one for cleaning solution and the other for clean water. Start by thoroughly rinsing the cars surface off. This will remove the loose dirt and grime, which can cause damage to the paint if it’s rubbed in later.

Starting with the roof, apply the soapy water with a soft wash mitt or a sponge. Rinse it well and make sure not to miss any spots. Move on to the hood or trunk followed by the sides, fenders and tires. It is important to wash car in sections from top to bottom. The bottom part of your car is typically exposed to more grime and dirt so you want to avoid rubbing this into the rest of your paint.

When you are finished cleaning the car’s exterior with soap and water, rinse it well for a final time and dry it with a soft chamois or terry cloth towels. Microfiber clothes also work well for picking up excess water. Water can hide easily in trunk lids, headlights, taillights, and doors. Go over each section crevice with a towel to make sure you don’t get spots later on when driving.

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The windows can be washed with plain water, window cleaner or an ammonia/water mixture. After you finish washing all the windows, using newspaper to buff them will remove any streaks or smudges that may be left. It sounds weird, but it really works on glass. The chrome and trim can be a pain; because soap and water may not be enough to really make it shine. Chrome Polish can be used to really make it pop. Just make sure to follow the specific directions on the label.

And that’s it! Once you’re done washing your car we typically recommend waxing as well. Waxing your car can help protect the paint and keep your ride looking clean, while being relatively easy to apply yourself.

Looking for a complete kit to detail your own car? Check out Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit