12 Expert Tips for DIY Car Detailing (With Pro Recommendations)

Detailing your car at home can give you that showroom shine while saving money—if you know the right techniques and tools. Below are 12 professional-level tips for both exterior and interior detailing, complete with recommended products for each step.

1. Wash in the Shade

Washing in direct sunlight can cause water and soap to dry too quickly, leaving spots and streaks. A cooler surface also reduces the risk of micro-scratches. Wash early morning or late afternoon, or work in a shaded area. Rinse the vehicle first to remove loose debris.
Optional Tool: A foam cannon or foam gun can pre-soak the car, loosening dirt safely.
Example: Chemical Guys Foam Blaster 6 Foam Gun

2. Use the Two-Bucket Method

This method prevents scratching by keeping your wash mitt cleaner. One bucket holds soapy water, the other clean rinse water. Add grit guards to both buckets to trap dirt at the bottom. Rinse the mitt after each panel.
Example: Chemical Guys Cyclone Dirt Trap Insert

3. Invest in Quality Microfiber Towels

Cheap towels can scratch paint. Use high-quality microfiber towels, keeping separate ones for drying, buffing, glass, and interiors. Wash separately from other laundry without fabric softener.
Example: 16"×24" Microfiber Waffle-Weave Towel 6-Pack

4. Clean Wheels and Tires First

Wheels are the dirtiest part of your car, often coated in brake dust and road grime. Use a wheel-safe cleaner and separate brushes for wheels and tires. Apply tire dressing after cleaning for a deep black finish.
Example: Meguiar’s Hot Rims All Wheel Cleaner
Brush: Speed Master Wheel Brush

5. Decontaminate with a Clay Bar

Even after washing, paint may feel rough due to embedded contaminants. A clay bar (or clay mitt) removes these, leaving the surface smooth for waxing. Use plenty of clay lubricant.
Examples:

• Mothers California Gold Clay Bar Kit
• Meguiar's Smooth Surface Clay Kit
• Chemical Guys Clay Bar & Luber Kit

6. Apply a Quality Wax or Sealant

Wax enhances shine and adds protection against UV rays, dirt, and contaminants. Synthetic sealants or ceramic sprays last longer than traditional wax. Apply thin layers and buff off with a microfiber towel.
Examples:

• Turtle Wax Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Spray Coating
• Adam’s Polishes Advanced Graphene Ceramic Spray

7. Vacuum Thoroughly

Remove floor mats and seat covers before vacuuming. Use a crevice tool to reach between seats and pedals. For pet hair, use a rubber pet-hair brush to loosen debris before vacuuming.
Example: Bissell Garage Pro Wall-Mounted Wet/Dry Vacuum

8. Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery

Spot-treat stains with carpet/upholstery cleaner. For best results, use an extractor to pull dirt and moisture from deep fibers, then allow to dry completely.
Example: Bissell Little Green Pro Carpet Cleaner

9. Clean and Condition Leather

Vacuum first to remove grit. Use a pH-balanced leather cleaner with a soft brush, then follow with conditioner to keep leather soft and prevent cracking.
Example: Lexol Leather Cleaner and Conditioner Kit

10. Don’t Forget Interior Plastics and Vents

Dust and grime build up on dashboards, panels, and vents. Use soft detailing brushes to remove debris, then wipe with interior cleaner. Apply UV protectant to prevent fading.
Examples: 10 Piece Interior Detail Brush

11. Streak-Free Glass Cleaning

Use an ammonia-free glass cleaner and a dedicated glass microfiber towel. Clean interior glass with vertical strokes and exterior with horizontal strokes to spot streaks.
Example: Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner

12. Maintain Regularly

A quick wash every 1–2 weeks and interior wipe-downs every few days keeps your car looking sharp. Reapply wax or sealant every 2–3 months. Keep a mini detailing kit in your trunk for on-the-go touch-ups.
Mini Kit Suggestion: A small spray bottle of quick detailer, microfiber towel, and interior cleaner.