re: Car washing essentials

If you’re just looking to wash your car and not be a detail pro, the absolute essentials are:

1. A pack of microfiber towels. You can get them at Walmart. Use them as all-purpose towels to dry the car and clean various things.

2. Car wash shampoo. I like Meguiar’s Gold Class. You can get a big jug of it at Walmart.

3. Wax. Many options here. I like Meguiar’s NXT tech wax. Waxes from companies like Meguiar’s, Mother’s, Zaino, etc. are all good. Stay away from Turtle Wax, Armor All, etc.

4. Wash mit and bucket. Easily found at Walmart. People recommend using two buckets... one with plain water to rinse out your mitt of dirt each time before you stick it in the soapy water bucket. It’s up to you if you care about reducing the possibility of scratching your paint to that level.

5. A brush to clean in between the spokes of your rims. It’s hard to get in there without a specialized brush.

6. Tire shine. I’d go for a tire shine with a bit of sheen instead of a high gloss. High gloss looks tacky. I’d stick with Meguiar’s brand. As far as off the shelf stuff Meguiar’s is very good.


If you want to learn more about all kinds of auto detail stuff, this site is one of the best with helpful guides. Everything you’ve ever wanted to know right here:

https://www.detailedimage.com/Auto-Detailing-Guide/