Waxing Your Car By Yourself

Waxing a car is commonly performed to offer a shiny new appearance to the car, but it will also provide protection for the paint. Waxing is particularly important when the car is kept outdoors and the finish is prone to rain, snow, sun and scratches. It is recommended that you wax your car at least 2 times per year.

 what you'll need

1.     Protective gloves
2.     Water hose
3.     Detergent
4.     Bug and tar remover
5.     Non abrasive car wax
6.     Sponges
7.     Towels
8.     Soft brush
9.     Detailing spray

Step 1 – Prepare for the Waxing

Get your supplies and make sure the sponges, towels and brushes you use are soft and clean. Otherwise, you may scratch the surface of your car. If needed, wash the towels using fabric softener. Get gloves, so that you protect your hands.

Perform the waxing in a well ventilated, shaded place. Direct sunlight may damage the wax. You may also avoid days with extreme temperatures.

Step 2 – Wash Your Car

Wash your car and make sure you remove all debris before you start the waxing. If you find items that are stuck to your car such as bugs or tar, get a bug and tar remover and make sure the surface of your car is clean.

Step 3 – Apply Wax

Opt for a non abrasive wax, as this will not damage the paint of your car. Apply the wax with a soft sponge using circular moves, starting from the front, the hood to the sides and then the back of the car. Try covering small areas at a time (up to 2 square feet at once. It’s important to cover all painted areas with wax. Avoid the windows or the door jambs. Use a soft brush to remove the excess wax or the wax that may have gotten into the door jambs.

If your car requires an abrasive wax, you may get such a product, but pay attention to its application and make sure to apply the product gently. Follow the guidelines on the label.

Step 4 – Allow the Wax to Set In

Allow the wax to set in until you can see the wax is dry and has formed a thin white film on the surface of the paint.

Step 5 – Wipe Off the Wax

Wipe off the wax using several clean towels. Light-colored terry cloth towels are ideal for this task. While wiping, check the color of the towel and if it accumulates dirt and residual wax, replace it with a clean one.

It’s best if you start wiping off the wax from the front and the hood and follow the same path as when you applied the wax.

Step 6 – Check Your Car

Check your car to see if you missed any spots and remove all remaining wax. If wax remains on the paint, it may attract debris.

Step 7 – Apply Detailing Spray

Apply detailing spray on the entire surface of your car. This will make your car shiny. This spray may also be used after washing your car.