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During winter, the extent of cleaning your car probably consists of removing snow and salt so you can actually see where you're going — but during warmer seasons it's all about attention to detail.
Dirt, pollen, tree sap, bird droppings, and normal road build up are just some of the many things that can prevent your ride from looking its best.
Instead of constantly spending money at the car wash, you can create an arsenal of products that will keep your car in pristine condition — and in the long run, you'll save a lot of money.
I own three classic BMWs: a 1988 325i convertible, a 1991 318is, and a 1993 525i wagon. With each of them being more than 25 years old, I do my very best to maintain and preserve their appearance and these are the products I use.
Whether you're a meticulous enthusiast preparing for a car show or an average person trying to care for your car, these are the products you'll also want at your disposal. You'll find everything from car wash soaps and waxes to leather cleaners and microfiber cloths — plus a few other unexpected picks.
Checkout the best car cleaning and detailing products, below:
Chemical Guys Snow Foam Car Wash
$9.99 for 16 ounces or $29.99 for 1 gallon, available on Amazon
If your at-home car washes include using liquid dish soap from the kitchen, you're doing it all wrong. Chemical Guys' car wash eliminates dirt and grime with a pH-neutral formula that's safe on all surfaces of your car. It has a foaming agent for maximum suds and a fresh honeydew scent.
Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash Mitt
$6.99, available on Amazon
To go along with the right car wash soap, you need the right cleaning tool. The Chemical Wash mitt easily cleans your car without scratching your paint. Its made of an extra plush, soft, and absorbent microfiber material, and is easier to control than a towel.
SuperClean Degreaser
$5.47, available on Amazon
SuperClean Degreaser has a multitude of cleaning uses, so it comes in handy for many of your car detailing needs. I wouldn't recommend using it at full strength on your paint, but it works wonders cleaning built up oil, grime, or dirt on your engine bay, under-body, or exhaust pipes. When diluted, it does a great job a cleaning carpets, floor mats, and chrome pieces as well.
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