Detailing in direct sunlight tips & tricks

Detailing in direct sunlight can pose a few problems, but most have very easy solutions. So here are some helpful tips & tricks to make it much easier.

1. Buy a Canopy

   • Yeah, those things you used to sit under at soccer games or used for camping. They are a great way to block out the sun and create natural shade for your car because its not the heat that causes the issues its the sunlight. The only drawbacks with this option is it will run you a couple hundred dollars and some set up but this is definitely the best option in my opinion.

2. Work in sections

   • The last thing you want is your chemicals baking onto your client/your car while your washing it. A simple fix is to work in sections. This prevents anything from baking onto the paint. You especially want to do this when using stronger chemicals like Iron Remover, Water spot Remover, or an All Purpose Cleaner (APC). This will prevent those stronger chemicals from etching your paint.

3. Use Rinse-less wash instead of foam

   • Rinse-less wash is your best approach to cleaning the Exterior of a car if you can’t afford a Canopy. Rinse-less wash can dry on your paint and will spray or wipe right off and it won’t damage your paint. All you will need is a garden sprayer and spray some Rinse-less wash all over your vehicle and than use a sponge (not a wash mitt) and move the chemical around, get the dirt off. Then spray it off with the hose or pressure washer.

4. Adjust your car

   • Another simple trick; usually a part or side of your car will be in the shade while the other is in direct sunlight. So, clean the side in the shade first and then repark your car with the side you just cleaned in the sun and the dirty side in the shade. That way you can clean a whole side instead of section by section.

5. Wear long sleeves & stay hydrated

   • Yes I know this has nothing to do with the car but we care about your health and comfort too, so here we are. Get a nice sweat wicking, Cooling, Breathable long sleeve. Most look at this and are like “ WHAT?! long sleeve shirt in 90 degree weather! You’re CRAZY!” But not only will the long sleeve keep you cooler by protecting more of your body from the suns rays, which ultimately is what makes you feel hot the most. It also protects the vehicle from your bodies oils if you accidentally brush up on the vehicle. And then stay hydrated. Its easy to get in that flow state when you’re busy, so just make sure you are remembering to drink lots of water, you will feel and perform better if you do.