Professional Detailer Cleaning Grey Bentley Wheel
How To Clean

Wheels & Rims

Owning a car brings with it the responsibility of maintaining it in good working condition. While some aspects of car maintenance, such as polishing the exterior or detailing the interior, can be enjoyable, others can be less glamorous. One such task is cleaning your wheels and rims.

However, this is a crucial part of car maintenance that not only keeps your car looking good, but also helps to protect your wheels from damage and extend their lifespan. In this blog post, we take a look at how to clean your wheels and rims using the right tools and techniques.

So, without further ado, let's get started on this journey to cleaner, shinier wheels and rims!

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

  1. Wheel Cleaner
  2. Soft Bristle Brush
  3. Tyre Shine
  4. Applicator Brush

STEP 1 - PRE-RINSE

Before you even begin the wheel cleaning process, it's important to pre-rinse your wheels and rims to remove any large dirt and debris that may be stuck to the surface. This step will make the cleaning process much easier and more effective.

To pre-rinse your wheels and rims, you can use a hose or pressure washer to spray them down. Be sure to focus on any areas where dirt and debris may be particularly concentrated, such as the crevices of the wheels.

By pre-rinsing your wheels and rims, you'll be able to remove the bulk of the dirt and debris, making it easier to see where you need to focus your scrubbing efforts. Once you've pre-rinsed your wheels and rims, you're ready to move on to the next step in the cleaning process.

STEP 2 - APPLY CLEANER

Now that you've rinsed and got your supplies in hand, it's time to start cleaning! Begin by spraying the wheel cleaner onto your tyres, rims and the face of the wheel including spokes, ensuring that you cover the entire surface area of each one. It's important to note that different wheel cleaners may have different application instructions, so make sure to read the label and follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

In general, most wheel cleaners are formulated to break down and remove dirt, brake dust, and other stubborn grime that can accumulate on your wheels and rims over time. The cleaner will lift dirt and grime away from the surface to make it easier to remove the dirt and debris.

Pink Spray Bottle of "Wheel Cleaner"

Wheel Cleaner

Regular price$24.95
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
Spraying Wheel Cleaner on Black Mud Tyre
Cleaned Black Mud Wheel

STEP 3 - AGITATE CLEANER

Now that the wheel cleaner has had a chance to break down the dirt and grime, it's time to grab your brushes and get to work.

For tyres it's important to use a brush that's designed specifically for cleaning wheels. These brushes are typically made with stiff bristles that are tough enough to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using brushes with metal bristles, as they can scratch and damage the surface of your wheels. Using firm but gentle pressure, scrub away the dirt and grime from the wheel tread.

Now that the wheels are scrubbed clean, it's time to focus on the face of the wheel. This is the most visible part of the wheel, and can accumulate a lot of dirt and brake dust over time. It is important to use a soft bristle brush that's designed specifically for cleaning rims. Rim brushes are designed to reach into the tight spaces between the spokes and around the edge of the rim, where dirt and brake dust can accumulate. Be sure to get into all of the nooks and crannies, including around the spokes and in between the lug nuts.

For any stubborn stains or caked-on grime, don't be afraid to put a little extra elbow grease into it. You may need to apply additional cleaner to these areas or use a degreaser and allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again. Just be sure to rinse the cleaner off completely before moving on to the next step.

If you're unsure about which type of brush to use, consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from a professional detailer.

Yellow Scrub Brush with Black Handle
Yellow Scrub Brush with Black Handle
Yellow Scrub Brush with Black Handle

Multi-Purpose Scrub Brush

Regular price$10.00
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
Black Wheel Brush with Grey Handle
Black Wheel Brush with Grey Handle

Wheel & Rim Brush

Regular price$11.99
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
WASH & RINSE
Once you've scrubbed the wheels it's time to rinse them off. This step is crucial to ensure that all of the dirt, grime, and wheel cleaner have been removed from the surface of your wheels and rims. To do this, you can use a hose or pressure washer to thoroughly rinse away all of the cleaner and dirt. Or this is the time to foam up your car and complete you regular car wash steps.

Make sure to get into all of the little crevices and corners to ensure that all of the cleaner and dirt are removed. It's also a good idea to spray the inside of the wheel as well, as this area can accumulate a lot of dirt and debris.

STEP 4 - DRESS TYRES

If you want to give your tyres a little extra shine, you can apply a tyre shine product. These are designed to add a glossy finish to your tyres, and can also help to protect them from UV rays and other environmental factors that can cause them to crack or fade over time.

Start by selecting a high-quality product and following the manufacturer's instructions for application. Typically, you'll apply the product using an applicator pad or sponge, and then allow it to dry for several minutes before driving.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your wheels and rims looking shiny and new for years to come. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help to protect the finish of your wheels and rims, and extend their lifespan. So why not take a few minutes to give your wheels and rims the TLC they deserve?

White Spray Bottle of "Tyre Shine" with Pink & Green Label
Lifestyle Shot of White Spray Bottle of "Tyre Shine" with Pink & Green Label with Logo

Tyre Shine

Regular price$19.99
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
The Applicator Sponge with Blue Handle and Black Sponge for Cars and Bikes

The Applicator Sponge

Regular price$5.95
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Shipping calculated at checkout.

And there you have it! Take a step back and admire your handiwork. Cleaning your wheels may not be the most exciting task in the world, but it's an important part of car maintenance. With the right tools and a little bit of elbow grease, you can make the process fun and enjoyable. So, next time you're cleaning your car, don't forget to show your wheels and rims some love!