It’s a common myth: the sun is shining, the sky is clear, and it feels like the perfect time to give your car a well-deserved wash. But here’s the catch, washing your car under direct sunlight can actually cause more damage than good.
Though it might be convenient, hot and sunny weather presents a number of unseen dangers that damage the quality of the wash and potentially damage the paintwork on your car. Today we break it down why mobile car wash experts recommend avoiding washing the car at midday and how to safely wash the car during the heat.
The Dangers of Washing the Car in Direct Sunlight
- Water Spotting
Sunlight makes the water dry quickly from the surface of your car. This rapid drying creates unattractive water spots, tough-to-clean mineral deposits that will etch the clear coat if not dealt with. - Streaks and Soap Residue
Shampoo for the car takes time to penetrate the grime to be washed away. It dries too fast in the sunlight, forming streaks and residue, and risking damage to your finish when scrubbed. - More Scratches and Swirls Risk
On a hot day, the car’s surface dries quicker, usually even before you rinse it properly. This reduced lubrication raises friction between the mitt/towel and the bodywork, increasing the chances of scratching and developing swirl marks. - Dehydration and Fatigue
Don’t forget the human element. Working outside can cause tiredness, sunburn, or dehydration in the heatwaves of the summer. Safety should always be a part of taking care of your car.
Safer, Smarter Alternatives to Wash Cars in Direct Sunlight
Washing your car during hot weather is not completely out of the question – it just takes the right strategy. These are some expert-approved modifications to make the wash effective and safe:
- Wash During Cooler Hours
Early morning or late evening hours are ideal times for washing the car. The cooler temperature lowers the evaporation rate, allowing for washing, rinsing, and drying to be performed without a problem. - Find or Develop Shade
If natural shading isn’t an option, look to a portable canopy sheltered by a gazebo. These are protective of the sun, allowing you to regulate the temperature of the workplace and minimize drying too quickly. - Work Panel by Panel:
Divide the wash into smaller parts, wash, rinse, and dry one panel at a time. This prevents one area from being in the direct sunshine for too long, avoiding the soap and water from setting on the surface. - Utilize the Right Tools
Opt for a good quality drying microfiber towel and a pH-neutral car wash shampoo. These are kind to paintwork and minimize the chances of micro-scrapes, particularly when it comes to rapid drying. - Refrain from Waxing during Heat
Applying wax to panels while they are too hot can cause the wax to become too hard to take off and to leave hazy spots behind. Wait until cooler parts of the day to wax or wax in the shade.
Should You Book a Mobile Car Wash Instead
If you would like to have the car cleaned thoroughly on a scorching day, without the trouble – a mobile car wash might be the best option. Experts are capable of:
- Work effectively in outdoor conditions
- Provide shade installations such as awnings
- Implement waterless or low-water green solutions
And the best part of all? You can continue on about your day while your car receives the expert care it needs.
Final Thoughts
One of the most enduring car care myths states that sunny weather provides ideal washing conditions. The truth of the matter is that sunny conditions accelerate evaporation, cause water spots, dry out soap too fast, and increase the risk of damage to the paint. With the right tools, time, and technique or by hiring top-rated mobile car wash professionals, you can still achieve a shining finish without harming the condition of your car.