How to valet your car like a pro: Part one – products and equipment

In this four-part series, we’re going to show you how to valet your car like a pro.

This part will guide you through the equipment and products you need to get a good result.

You will need:

• Some cleaning solution to mix with water when rinsing down your car
• Glass cleaner (no ammonia)
• Foam car shampoo (if fabric seats), or leather cleaner (if leather seats)
• Wax
• Two buckets
• A stiff brush
• Toothbrush
• Wash mitt
• Microfibre cloths
• Drying towel
• Vacuum cleaner

Firstly, think about where you are going to clean your car. Cleaning the exterior is not a good idea in the sun as the products can dry out, leaving uneven patches and spots.

To achieve that shiny ‘showroom’ finish you should invest in a quality cleaning solution. These foam up nicely and cover a greater area. They also go on more smoothly and are easier to work with.

You also need the best tools to do the job.

A wash mitt and cloths should do for the exterior. Although many like to use chamois leather, this can actually do more harm than good by scratching the paintwork, as can a sponge.

Before you get started you should also make sure you have at least two buckets – one for cleaning and one for rinsing. If you only have one bucket, all that dirt and grime that you take off your car is just going to go right back into the water, and then right back onto the car.

To find out what the best products are for the job, contact AutoParts UK.

Keep an eye out for part two of this series to see how to rinse your car’s exterior and clean your wheels properly.