Wash & Pre-Wash

Everything here is for the wash itself: a pre-wash to soften and lift dirt before anything touches the paint, then a shampoo for the contact wash. Most of the range is snow foam, citrus pre-wash and car shampoo, from brands including Autobead, Stjarnagloss, Infinity Wax and ValetPro.

How to choose

• Pre-wash: Snow Foam goes on through a pressure washer lance and clings while it softens the dirt; Citrus Pre-Wash is sprayed on the dirtiest areas first, such as the lower panels and arches.
• Car Shampoo is for the contact wash. pH neutral shampoos leave wax, sealant or coating in place; ceramic and SiO2 shampoos add a little protection.
• All Purpose Cleaners are diluted to suit arches, tyres, engine bays and door shuts.
• Waterless Wash is for a lightly dusty car when there is no hose to hand.

Good to know

• Strong snow foams and citrus pre-washes shift more dirt but can wear down wax or sealant: on a protected car, use a pH neutral snow foam.
• Never let a pre-wash dry on the paint: work in the shade and rinse it off while it is still wet.

Should you pre-wash a car?

Yes, whenever there is dirt on it. A pre-wash softens and lifts the dirt so much of it rinses off before a mitt touches the paint, and less grit is dragged around in the contact wash. On a waxed or coated car, a pH-neutral snow foam does it without wearing the protection down.

How long do you leave pre-wash on a car?

For the time given on the label, and never long enough for it to dry. Work in the shade and rinse it off while the panel is still wet.

Related: Exterior, Snow Foam Lances, Buckets & Grit Guards, Wash Mitts & Pads. Popular brands here: Infinity Wax, ValetPro, Autobead, Stjarnagloss.