Tips for Detailing in the Winter(exterior)

If you don’t have a garage; detailing in the winter does kind of suck. Its cold, your chemicals can freeze, the water is cold , and a plethora of other drawbacks. But here are some tips to make your experience a little better and avoid mistakes.

1. Avoid using the pressure washer in freezing weather

   • If it is 32* or below, avoid using the pressure washer. The water in the pressure washer could freeze and if that happens say goodbye to another 200 or more dollars buying a new one. But even if its 33 degrees out you are safe to use it.

2. Keep chemicals insulated

   • If you are at home detailing your own car you can turn on the accessories in your car and put the heat on and leave your chemicals there while you clean. Or you can get an insulated bag that closes and put a hand warmer in the bag with them to keep them warm. That is also a great option for Mobile detailers. As long as your keeping your chemicals from freezing you are fine. Don’t worry if they do freeze because usually chemicals won’t take any detrimental impact from it, but the more it freezes and thaws it will weaken the chemical or make it inadequate for use.

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3. Wear gloves/warm water

   • If you put on some thin cotton gloves under your nylon/nitrile gloves, your hands will stay nice and toasty in cold temperatures. Paired with using warm water in your wash buckets and you will be far more comfortable.

4. Work in sections

   • Detailing the exterior of your car will take a little longer in the winter because you can’t just foam the whole car and clean it. You have to work in sections to ensure that the soaps and chemicals don’t freeze on the car. I’d also recommend using a Rinse-less wash like the one from DIY Detail. It can freeze on your car without causing any problems on your paint and washes right off. This will make the cleaning process SO much quicker and safer.

5. Dry thoroughly

   • After cleaning the car; make sure to dry the car THOROUGHLY. Really focus on the door jambs and cracks and crevices so no water spots and water freeze on/in your paint.