Last Updated on September 19, 2024 by Arndt
The Way to Wash Your Matte Car - Protect Your Paint with Eye4Clean
A Matt car wash has an exclusive look, but requires special maintenance to maintain that look. At Eye4Clean we know exactly what your matte car needs to protect the paint and keep it shining. In this blog, we provide a step-by-step guide to washing a matte car, including tips for preventing scratches and keeping matte paint in top condition.
Step 1: Put the Car in Shadow
Before you begin the matte car wash, it is important that the car is out of the sun and has cooled down. This prevents the cleaners from drying too quickly and leaving streaks. In addition, too much sunlight can damage the paintwork. Work in a cool environment to increase the effectiveness of the cleaning products.
Step 2: Start with the Rims
The rims are often the dirtiest, especially from brake dust. Use a rim cleaner which is pH neutral, so you don't risk damaging the coating on the rims. Spray the rims, let the cleaner soak in for a while and use a soft brush to thoroughly remove the dirt. Be sure not to skip the hard-to-reach areas, such as the wheel bolts.
At Eye4Clean, we always recommend using a separate microfiber cloth for the rims so you don't bring dirt to the paint.
Step 3: Rinse the Car
Before you begin washing the car, rinse it with a pressure washer or a garden hose. This removes all loose dirt and reduces the chance of scratching when you start shampooing. Always work from top to bottom so that dirt from higher areas is rinsed down without hitting already cleaned areas.
Step 4: Use a Matte Car Shampoo
An ordinary car shampoo is often too aggressive for matte paint, so use a special matte car shampoo. This cleans without damaging the paint or adding shine. Fill two buckets: one with the shampoo and one with clean water to rinse your microfiber wash glove clean in between. Work from top to bottom and do not use circular motions to reduce the risk of staining.
Using two buckets is crucial. Rinsing out the glove in the clean water will prevent dirt from scratching the matte paint.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly Again
After completely washing the car, rinse it again with the pressure washer or a garden hose. Make sure all shampoo and dirt residue is well removed. Again, work from top to bottom so you don't leave any residue on the paint. This is because soap residue can affect the matte finish, which can diminish the unique look of your car.
Step 6: Dry the Car with a Microfiber Cloth
Matte cars cannot be dried in the normal way. Use a soft microfiber cloth To gently dry the car. This will prevent you from scratching the sensitive paintwork. Work from top to bottom and make sure not to apply hard pressure to the paintwork.
Many of our customers choose the paint sealing to protect the matte lacquer even better. This is applied immediately after drying to make the paint dirt and water repellent.
Step 7: Protect the lacquer with a lacquer sealer
Now that the car is clean and dry, it's time to protect the matte paint with a paint sealing. This helps to protect the paintwork from dirt and contaminants longer while maintaining its matte appearance. Spray the paint sealant evenly over the car and use a microfiber cloth to rub out the product.
Eye4Clean always recommends using a paint sealant designed specifically for matte paints, so you don't damage the matte finish or unintentionally add gloss.
Step 8: Clean the Car Windows
Now that your matte paint is in top condition, it's time to tackle the windows. Use a car window cleaner To clean the windows streak-free. Don't forget to include the inside of the windows as well for optimal visibility. Work carefully and use a separate microfiber cloth for the windows to avoid transferring dirt from the paintwork.
