Ah, the joys of car washing! You've gone through the foaming process, basking in the satisfaction of seeing your ride go from grime to shine. But wait, the drying step is often overlooked, and little do you know, it could be causing more harm than good. Yes, you heard that right! Don't worry, though, because today we're here to spill the beans on all things about quick, safe drying. After all, we want to help you maintain that pristine, swirl-free finish on your pride and joy. Get ready to revolutionise your car drying game, it's time to say goodbye to water spots and streaks and hello to a dazzling, showroom-worthy shine. Let's dive in!
PAT OR WIPE
To Pat or to Wipe? That is the Drying Dilemma!
When it comes to drying your car, there are two popular methods that often spark a heated debate among car enthusiasts – the pat method and the wipe method. Which one is the winner? Let's break it down and find out!
1. The Pat Method:
As the name suggests, the pat method involves laying your drying towel out flat on the car surface and gently patting it down to absorb the water. This method is gentle on your paintwork as it minimises the risk of scratching or swirling caused by rubbing or dragging the towel across the surface. It's especially effective for any of those harder to reach areas where water tends to hide, such as door handles or side mirrors.
2. The Wipe Method:
On the other hand, the wipe method involves laying your towel out flat on the car surface and gliding it across in one smooth motion. This method is quicker and can be more efficient for larger, flat areas like the hood or roof. However, it requires caution to prevent any potential scratching or swirling caused by dirt or debris trapped between the towel and the paint surface. It's important to use a clean, high-quality towel and be mindful of any dirt or grit that may accumulate on the towel during the drying process.
So, which do we recommend? Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference. The pat method is generally considered safer and less likely to cause scratches, while the wipe method may be quicker for larger areas. Whichever method you choose, just remember to be gentle, use a high-quality drying towel!
SHADE
Picture this: It's a scorching hot day, and you've just finished washing your car to perfection. You're all set to dry it off and admire that gleaming finish, but wait! Before you reach for your towel, here's a tip that could save you from a dreaded sight – water spots. Yes, heat can be your car's worst enemy when it comes to drying, and that's why drying your vehicle in the shade is the smart move!
When your car's surface is exposed to direct sunlight, the water on your car can evaporate quickly. This rapid evaporation can leave behind water spots as the minerals in the water, such as calcium and magnesium, are left behind on the paint surface. Water spots can be stubborn and difficult to remove, and they can mar the otherwise flawless finish of your freshly washed car.
So, beat the heat and choose the cool option of drying your car in the shade. It's a small step that can make a big difference in achieving a flawless, spot-free finish. Your car will thank you, and you'll be left with a sparkling clean ride that's ready to turn heads wherever you go.
WINDOWS
When it comes to drying your car, it's easy to get caught up in making sure the bodywork is spotless and gleaming. But there's one crucial area that should never be overlooked – your windows and mirrors. After all, these are your eyes on the road, and you want to ensure they are crystal clear and free from streaks or water spots that can affect your visibility.
Choose the Right Tools:
Using the right tools for the job can make all the difference in getting your windows and mirrors dried to perfection. Opt for a high-quality, drying towel or even a specialised glass cleaning towel.
Double Check for Water Spots:
Water spots can be sneaky and easily missed, especially on windows and mirrors. Before you declare your drying job complete, take a close look at your windows and mirrors from different angles and in different lighting conditions to ensure there are no water spots lurking around.
Don't Forget the Interior:
While you're at it, don't forget to give the interior of your windows a spruce up. Condensation or water droplets on the inside can also affect your visibility while driving.
Extra Tip: Use a Glass Cleaner
If you want to take your window and mirror drying to the next level, consider using a high-quality glass cleaner. Apply it to the glass surface and then use your microfiber cloth to wipe it off, leaving your windows and mirrors sparkling clean and free from streaks.
So, remember to pay special attention to your windows and mirrors when drying your car. With the right tools, technique, and a keen eye for water spots, you can ensure that your vision while driving remains crystal clear.
HYDROPHOBIC FOAM
After spending time washing and drying your car, the last thing you want is for water marks to mar your paintwork. That's where the power of a protective, hydrophobic layer comes into play. Whether it's a spray wax or a ceramic coating, applying a hydrophobic product to your car's surface can make a world of difference when it comes to drying your car.
The Science of Hydrophobicity:
Hydrophobicity refers to the ability of a surface to repel water. A hydrophobic layer creates a barrier that causes water to bead up and roll off the surface, rather than clinging to it. This can be a game-changer when it comes to drying your car. Instead of water beads staying stagnant on your paintwork and evaporating, which can lead to water marks, a hydrophobic layer helps the water to simply slide off, leaving your car's surface much drier and with fewer chances of water spots.
Long-lasting Protection:
In addition to aiding in the drying process, a hydrophobic layer also provides long-lasting protection to your car's paintwork. Spray waxes and ceramic coatings create a barrier that helps guard against environmental contaminants, UV rays, and other potential sources of damage. This not only keeps your car looking shiny and new but also makes future washing and drying easier as dirt and water are less likely to adhere to the protected surface.
So, consider adding a hydrophobic product to your car care routine for a spotless and protected finish.
DON'T DROP
As you're drying your car, it's crucial to keep in mind that at no point should your towel touch the ground. Even the cleanest of surfaces can still harbour tiny particles that can potentially scratch your car's paintwork. So, if your towel hits the ground during the drying process, it's important to get another clean towel to finish the job.
So be prepared with extra towels! Sometimes we can't avoid the towel touching the ground, it's essential to come prepared with extra towels. Have a few clean, dry, and soft microfiber towels on hand so that if one towel accidentally hits the ground, you have a backup ready to use. Avoid the temptation to simply shake off any dirt from a fallen towel and continue using it, as it may still contain particles that can damage your car's paintwork.
In conclusion, drying your car is not a step to be overlooked, and choosing the right drying tools and method can make a significant difference in maintaining that flawless finish. Whether you're a proud "pat-ter" or a swift "wiper," always prioritise safe drying practices to keep your car looking its best. Happy drying!