Your car is a significant investment, and you spend plenty maintaining it—oil changes, tire rotations, brake pads. But have you considered that simply washing your car is also an investment? How often should you wash it, and why does it matter?
Sometimes it’s obvious when a wash is needed. After a long drive on a dusty gravel road, for instance, or when a flock of birds leaves its mark while your car is parked under what seemed like the perfect shade tree.
But what about including car washes as part of your regular maintenance routine? Whether it’s to protect the paint and prevent rust for long-term driving, or to maintain a pristine look for better resale value, there are plenty of reasons to wash your car consistently.
How Often Should You Wash Your Car?
As a general guideline, most experts suggest washing your car about once every two weeks. If you live near the coast or in regions where salt is spread on winter roads, more frequent washes are necessary since salt can corrode metal and lead to rust.
Drivers who often travel on rural or dirt roads should pay extra attention. Acidic bird droppings, dead bugs, and tree sap can damage paint if left too long, so it’s best to clean them off promptly.
Cars that aren’t driven daily or are stored in a garage can go longer between washes.
Contrary to popular belief, winter actually demands more frequent cleaning. Road salt is particularly damaging, accumulating on your car’s body and causing corrosion. Regular trips to the car wash, especially those using hand-held pressure wands, help prevent salt buildup and protect your vehicle.
Caring for Your Car’s Interior
Even though the interior is less exposed to salt or bird droppings, it still requires regular cleaning. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove debris such as pet hair, crumbs, dead insects, or dried leaves from seat crevices and floor mats.
If you notice stains during vacuuming, an upholstery spot cleaner can help remove them. For dingy seats, a simple mixture of warm water and mild detergent works well.
Leather seats require special attention. To prevent cracking and premature aging, clean and condition them at least every three months. If you spend a lot of time driving or your car’s interior is exposed to direct sunlight, consider conditioning the leather every two months.
Waxing Your Car’s Exterior
It’s generally recommended to wax your car at least twice a year. A simple test can tell you if a new coat is needed: sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the water beads up, your wax is still doing its job; if it spreads out, it’s time for a fresh layer.
Waxing does more than give your car a glossy finish. It also helps protect the paint from corrosive substances like salt, tree sap, bugs, and bird droppings. Even if these contaminants land on your car, the wax provides an extra barrier, reducing the risk of damage and keeping your paint in better condition.
Getting Your Car Detailed
One of the best ways to care for your car—and yourself—is to have it professionally detailed. Think of detailing as a thorough spring cleaning for your vehicle, both inside and out. A full detailing service typically includes vacuuming every nook and cranny of the interior and even cleaning the grille or small crevices with specialized tools like a toothbrush.
Many businesses offer interior and exterior detailing, with prices often starting around $100 or more. However, you can achieve similar results yourself in just an afternoon with the right tools and products.
While detailing leaves your car looking, smelling, and feeling like new, it’s not necessary to do it frequently. Following a routine of a simple wash every two weeks, waxing at least twice a year, and a basic interior clean-out every few months will help keep your car—and your investment—in excellent condition.
