Going to a coin car wash in Calgary is a quick and easy way to clean your car, but are you really getting the best results? Many people simply spray some soap, rinse, and drive away, thinking they’ve done a good job. However, there are some simple tricks that can turn your basic wash into a professional level clean. Coin car washes are designed for speed and convenience, but with a few smart techniques, you can achieve a sparkling, streak free finish without wasting your quarters!
Before Coin Car Wash in Calgary Start with a Pre Wash
Jumping straight into blasting your car with high pressure water is a common mistake. A little prep work can make a huge difference. Start by using the pre soak or foam setting to loosen dirt and grime. This step saves you time and effort because it softens the gunk before you even start scrubbing. Let it sit for a minute or two so the soap can do its magic.
Follow the Right Order for Maximum Cleanliness
Have you ever felt like your car still looks dirty even after a wash? That’s likely because the settings weren’t used in the right order. The best sequence to follow is:
- Pre soak: Loosen up dirt and grime.
- High pressure soap: Lift stubborn debris off the surface.
- Foam brush: Scrub away stuck on messes (but rinse it first!).
- High pressure rinse: Wash away all that loosened dirt.
- Wax coat: Add a protective shine.
- Spot free rinse: Prevent ugly water spots.
Spray at an Angle for a More Powerful Clean
You might think that aiming the sprayer straight at your car is the best way to clean it, but that’s not the case. According to leading car washing companies like New Brighton Car Wash, spraying at a 45 degree angle helps lift dirt off the surface rather than just pushing it around. This technique works especially well on tires, wheel wells, and any crevices where grime loves to hide.
Stretch Your Quarters by Timing Your Wash
Nothing is worse than running out of time mid wash. Instead of frantically tossing in more quarters, go in with a game plan. Time your wash cycles so that you’re using every second wisely. Here’s a pro move: Start with the pre soak and soap, then pause before rinsing. If time is running low, insert another quarter and keep scrubbing while the soap is still doing its job.
Give Extra Attention to High Dirt Areas
Not all parts of your car get equally dirty, so don’t just give it an even spray and hope for the best. Pay extra attention to areas that collect the most grime:
- Lower body panels: Road dirt loves to cling here.
- Behind the wheels: Mud and brake dust build up quickly.
- Under the bumpers: These spots often go unnoticed but can get filthy.
- Door handles and trunk seams: Dirt gets trapped in these tight spaces.
Use the Foam Brush Without Damaging Your Paint
Foam brushes can be lifesavers during a coin car wash in Calgary, but they can also be your car’s worst enemy if not used correctly. The biggest mistake people make is using it without rinsing it first! The brush might have dirt or tiny rocks from the last person’s wash, which can scratch your paint. Always give it a quick high pressure rinse before using it on your car.
Don’t Skip the Spot Free Rinse
Many people rush through the rinse cycle, but the spot free rinse is where the magic happens. This setting uses deionized water, which dries without leaving behind those annoying white spots. Take your time with this step, especially on windows and mirrors, since those areas show spots the most.
Dry Smart for a Streak Free Finish
Leaving your car to air dry can lead to streaks, especially if it’s sunny or windy. If the coin car wash doesn’t have an air dryer, bring along a microfiber towel or synthetic chamois to do the job. Start at the top and work your way down in long, smooth motions. Drying properly locks in that fresh washed shine and keeps water spots from forming.
Apply the Wax Setting for Extra Protection
Many people assume the wax setting in a coin car wash is just for looks, but it actually helps protect your paint. The thin layer of wax makes it harder for dirt and water to stick to your car, keeping it cleaner for longer. Spray it on evenly, let it sit for a moment, and then rinse gently.
Finish Strong with Tire and Trim Care
A clean car isn’t just about shiny paint, it’s about the details. After you’ve washed and dried, spend a couple of minutes on your tires and trim. Wipe down plastic surfaces and use tire cleaner to give your wheels a fresh, deep black look.
Become a Coin Car Wash Pro!
Getting the most out of a coin car wash in Calgary isn’t just about throwing in quarters and hoping for the best. With the right techniques, you can turn a quick wash into a professional quality clean. Next time you pull into a self serve wash, put these tips to the test and enjoy driving away in a car that looks brand new!
Visit New Brighton Car Wash for the best car washing experience!