As a proud owner of a matte-wrapped car, you know it requires special care to maintain its unique finish. Unlike traditional glossy paint jobs, these wraps can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals and improper washing techniques. Plus, it’s even more of a challenge when it comes to dark-colored cars.
This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to wash a matte wrapped car safely and effectively.
Table of Contents
Step-by-step Guide to Washing a Matte Wrapped Car
What to Prepare
Before you start cleaning car wraps, make sure you have the following cleaning products:
- A bucket of warm water
- A high-quality car wash soap that is specifically formulated for matte finishes
- A microfiber wash mitt or sponge, which is a proper vinyl wrap stain remover
- A second bucket of clean water for rinsing
- A chamois or silicone squeegee for drying
- A detailing spray or quick detailer for touch-ups
Step 1: Rinse car with water
Rinse the car thoroughly with water to remove any loose dirt or debris. This step is important to prevent scratches on the paint when washing the car, especially when you clean a matte black wrapped car.
Step 2: Fill the bucket with warm water and soap
Fill one bucket with warm water and add the car wash soap according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Note: My recommendation would be the 3M Cleaner. It’s important to use a car wash soap that is specifically formulated for matte finishes to avoid damaging the finish. I wouldn’t trust waterless car wash soap and wax to clean and wax a wrapped car.
Step 3: Wash the car with mitt/sponge
Dip the wash mitt or sponge into the soapy water and wash the car from the top down.
You should always use gentle, circular motions and avoid applying too much pressure, which can damage the matte finish.
Step 4: Rinse the car thoroughly with water
Once you have washed the entire car, rinse it thoroughly with water to remove all soap suds. Make sure to rinse the car from all angles carefully.
Step 5: Dry the car with chamois or microfiber towel
Use a chamois or silicone squeegee towel to dry the car. Avoid using a traditional towel or cloth, which can leave scratches on the matte finish.
Remember not to wipe or rub the towel against the car to avoid damaging the finish.
Step 6: Use detailing spray for touch-ups
Use a detailing spray or quick detailer and a microfiber towel for touch-ups or hard-to-reach areas. Spray the detailing spray or quick detailer on the microfiber towel and gently wipe the area to remove dirt or debris.
Drying Techniques
When drying your matte-wrapped car, it’s important to use the right technique to avoid damaging the finish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Use a chamois or silicone squeegee to dry the car. Avoid using a traditional towel or cloth, which can leave scratches on the matte finish.
- Work in small sections, starting from the top of the car and working your way down.
- Use a blotting motion rather than wiping or rubbing the towel against the car. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can damage the matte finish.
- Avoid letting the car air dry, as this can leave water spots on the matte finish.
Additional Care Tips
To keep your matte-wrapped car looking its best, here are some additional matte vinyl wrap care tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive car wrap cleaners on the matte finish. Instead, opt for gentle, matte-specific cleaning products that are formulated to maintain the integrity of the finish.
- Park your car in a shaded area to prevent the sun from fading the wrap. This will help to protect wrapped car’s finish from the harmful UV rays of the sun, which can cause it to fade and lose its vibrancy over time.
- Avoid parking your car under trees or near bird feeders, as bird droppings can damage the finish. If you must park your car outside, try to find a spot that is away from trees and bird feeders.
- Wash your car regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the matte finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When washing a matte-wrapped car, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid:
- Using a traditional car wash soap or wax that is not formulated for matte finishes
These products can contain ingredients that are too harsh for the delicate surface of the matte finish, causing it to become damaged or discolored over time.
- Using a pressure washer or high-powered hose
While a pressure washer or high-powered hose may seem like a quick and efficient way to wash your car, avoiding using them on a matte finish is important. The high pressure of the water can damage the wrap and cause it to peel or become dislodged.
Instead, rinse the car with a gentle stream of water from a hose or a low-pressure washer.
- Using a traditional towel or cloth to dry the car
When drying your car after washing, avoiding using a traditional towel or cloth (polyester, cotton, etc.) is important. These materials can be too rough on the delicate surface of the matte finish, leaving scratches and swirl marks that can be difficult to remove.
- Letting the car air dry
While it may be tempting to let your car air dry after washing, this can lead to unsightly water spots on the matte finish.
To avoid this, use a soft microfiber towel or chamois to gently dry the surface of the car after washing. Be sure to blot the surface rather than wiping or rubbing it to avoid damaging the finish.
Things to Consider When Washing a Matte Wrapped Car
When wash a wrapped car, there are some things to keep in mind to ensure that you are taking the best care of your car:
- Use a matte wrap soap that is specifically formulated for matte finishes. These soaps are designed to clean matte vinyl wrap of the car without damaging the wrap.
- Avoid using a pressure washer or high-powered hose, which can damage the wrap and cause it to peel or bubble.
- Wash your car regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the matte finish.
- Dry your car immediately after washing to prevent water spots from forming on the matte finish.
FAQs
Why is washing a matte wrapped car different?
Matte wraps require special care because they are more delicate than traditional glossy paint jobs. Harsh chemicals and improper washing techniques can damage the matte finish and cause it to peel or fade.
Can I use a pressure washer on a matte wrapped car?
No, you should not use a pressure washer or high-powered hose on a matte-wrapped car. The force of the water can damage the wrap and cause it to peel or bubble.
How often should I wash my matte wrapped car?
You should wash your car regularly to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the matte finish.
How often you wash your car will depend on how often you drive it and the conditions in which you drive. Normally, it would be good to wash the car every week or two if you find a lot of dirt on it.
How long does a matte car wrap last?
A matte car wrap can last anywhere from five to seven years, depending on the car wrap maintenance, how well it is cared for, and the conditions in which it is driven.
How to polish a wrapped car?
Using clearcoat polish or turtle wax for wrapped cars is not recommended due to the risk of damaging its surface. Instead, opt for the vinyl wrap-specific polish to protect the car wraps and maintain their shine.
Conclusion
By following the steps on how to wash a matte wrapped car outlined in this article, you can effectively clean your beautiful car.
Remember to use a car wash soap specifically formulated for matte finishes, avoid using a pressure washer or high-powered hose, and dry your car immediately after washing to prevent water spots from forming on the matte finish.
With proper care, your matte-wrapped car will look great for years, whether you need to wash a satin wrapped car, vinyl, or any other materials.
