Materials Needed:

1. Car Wash Soap: Use a dedicated car wash soap instead of dishwashing detergent, which can strip off wax.
2. Bucket: Have two buckets if possible – one for soapy water and one for rinsing.
3. Microfiber Wash Mitt or Sponge: A soft mitt or sponge helps prevent scratches.
4. Grit Guard: Place a grit guard at the bottom of the wash bucket to trap dirt and prevent it from being transferred to the mitt.
5. Hose with Nozzle: A hose with an adjustable nozzle facilitates rinsing.
6. Wheel Cleaner: Use a wheel cleaner appropriate for your wheel type.
7. Wheel Brush: A brush specifically designed for wheels helps remove brake dust.
8. Drying Towels or Chamois: Use microfiber towels or a chamois for drying.
9. Car Wax (Optional): If you plan to wax your car after washing.
10. Glass Cleaner: For cleaning windows and mirrors.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Park in a Shaded Area:

   • Washing your car in a shaded area helps prevent soap from drying too quickly, reducing the risk of water spots.

2. Rinse the Car:

   • Start by thoroughly rinsing the car to remove loose dirt and debris.

3. Clean the Wheels:

   • Apply wheel cleaner to the wheels and use a wheel brush to scrub away brake dust and grime.

4. Prepare the Soapy Water:

   • Fill a bucket with the recommended amount of car wash soap and water.

5. Wash the Car:

   • Dip the wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water and wash the car from top to bottom, working in sections. Use a straight, back-and-forth motion rather than circular to minimize swirl marks.

6. Rinse Frequently:

   • Rinse the mitt or sponge frequently in the rinse bucket to prevent dirt from scratching the car's surface.

7. Clean Hard-to-Reach Areas:

   • Use a soft brush or detailing tool to clean areas that are hard to reach with the wash mitt, such as grilles, emblems, and crevices.

8. Rinse Thoroughly:

   • Once the entire car is washed, thoroughly rinse off all soap using a hose with a nozzle.

9. Dry the Car:

   • Use drying towels or a chamois to dry the car, starting from the top and working your way down. This helps prevent water spots.

10. Optional: Apply Wax:

    • If desired, apply car wax according to the product instructions for added protection and shine.

11. Clean Windows and Mirrors:

    • Use a glass cleaner to clean the windows and mirrors.

By following these steps, you can keep your car clean and well-maintained while minimizing the risk of scratches or damage to the paintwork.