shiny car

Shampoos, waxes, toothpastes, lotions, sprays... The choice of products to ensure the impeccable appearance of the car is considerable. What to use to make the car look attractive and at the same time protect it from damage?

Paint wear is associated with fading of its color, the appearance of cracks and surface defects. This is prevented by regular washing and waxing of the car body. In the case of washing, it is worth using special shampoos that make it easier to get rid of dirt, sand or salt. The use of household detergents (eg dishwashing liquid) is not recommended. Their work grease removal, which means it can remove the wax coating from the varnish. Thus, they expose it to the harmful effects of the sun, salt or tar.

The next step is the regeneration of the varnish, for which special pastes and lotions are used (universal, for metallic and non-metallic varnishes). Their task is to gently polish the top layer, thanks to which we get rid of scratches, small depressions and oxidation. When the lacquer is severely damaged (tarnished, faded) or has deep scratches, all that remains is a visit to a specialist and polishing, which involves the mechanical removal of the damaged lacquer layer. A similar effect, but only for a short period, can be obtained when using tinting wax.

Wax can be applied to the regenerated varnish. Paste waxes are recommended for older cars because their consistency is better at removing minor paint oxidation. For newer vehicles, it is better to use milk or olive oil waxes. Apply wax only after the car is completely dry. We do this with a clean rag, in circular motions, one for each body element. After the wax dries, buff it with a soft cloth, preferably a microfiber cloth, until it is glossy. Applying two coats of wax is not necessary if we do not notice imperfections or do not want an exceptionally shiny body. Depilation should be carried out twice a year, in spring and autumn.

After the bodywork has been cleaned and waxed, the wheels can be tackled. Road dirt and salt accumulate on them. To get rid of them from disks, there are special measures, different for metal disks, different for aluminum ones. Most often, they are applied to washed discs, left to stand, and then washed again with water. Most preparations should not be left on the disc for longer, as they are aggressive and can destroy the outer coating of the disc. Tire cleaners not only remove dirt from them, but also slow down the aging process of the outer layers of rubber.

Recently, products for hydrophobization of windshields have appeared in the offer, the so-called. invisible wipers. They cover the glass with a thin layer that prevents water and dirt from sticking to them. This reduces the adhesion of dirt to it and makes it easier to drain the water. Hydrophobic coatings are mainly applied to windshields.

It is not recommended to use aerosol cleaners on cab, door panels and other plastic parts. Their particles stick to the glass and, because they are greasy, reduce visibility and collect dirt. It is better to use waxes, creams or lotions. They allow you to remove dust and additionally can give the surface a shine. You can also buy specially impregnated rags.

Upholstery cleaning consists of applying a foam or liquid, wringing it out (preferably with a water vacuum cleaner, and if we don't have one, with a rag or the supplied brush) and drying. Leather elements are best cleaned with milk, which at the same time lubricates the surface.

Examples of prices for cosmetics

Cargo, price (PLN)

Car shampoos

Wash and wax CarPlan 8,49

Sonax 12,99

Tenzi Shampoo Neutro Nano 33,49

Automotive waxes

Carnauba wax for cars (packed) 18,49

Turtle Metallic Car Wax 23,59 (emulsion)

Extreme Nano-Tech 30,99 Speed ​​Wax (olive)

For discs

Turtle Brake Dust Barrier 19,99

Miracle Wheels CarPlan 24,99

Abel Auto Net-Rims 29,99

Product price (PLN)

For tires

Plak Practical Line 16,99

CarPlan tire cleaning 18,99

Abel Auto Net-Rims 29,99

To the cockpit

Plastic Cockpit (moloko) 7,49

Armor All Napkins (napkins) 10,99

Plak Practical line (foam) 11,49

for upholstery

CarPlan Inner valet 15,99

Turtle Interior 1 24,38 (foam with brush)

Abel Auto Leather Care 59,99 (in haste)

Practical advice

1. Before washing the car, rinse it with water. By removing sand and dust, you will avoid scratches on the paintwork.

2. Before applying the wax, the varnish must dry.

3. Avoid sun exposure while waxing as the wax will dry quickly and be difficult to remove. The wax layer should also not be too thick.

4. If wax remains on seals and plastic parts, it can be removed with a toothbrush.

5. After applying the wax, use a shampoo that does not remove the wax or a shampoo with wax.

6. Cab and upholstery cleaners should be applied to a cloth, not directly to the surface to be cleaned. This prevents possible discoloration.