Washing is the process of removing loose dirt and road film from your car's exterior surfaces.  That means more than just a good hosing.  You have to scrub it with shampoo and a sponge or wash mitt.

A proper wash starts with proper was tools.  Your choice of wash mitt, wash shampoo and drying towels is very important.  Poor quality products will clean and dry your car, but they won't pamper the finish.  Over time these inexpensive products will create swirl marks and dull the paint finish.  Sonus offers the complete Sonus Wash Kit for an easy solution that will please even the most ardent car enthusiast.

Washing can be a double-edged sword, though, as even the mildest soaps can remove the protection from your car's paint, causing premature oxidation.  Detergents can dull your car's finish even faster.  For many years, BMW, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and many other fine-automobile makers recommended using only pure water to wash your car.

The high-quality car wash shampoos made today are very gentle on paint, plastic and rubber.  A good car wash shampoo provides lubrication to prevent scratching and conditioners to maintain the shine.  Be sure to select a quality product that's not counterproductive to your detailing efforts.

As well as a good shampoo, it takes a variety of tools to correctly wash a car.  I like using brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as between body panels.  I also like using brushes on lower body panels, where road grease and tar collect.  Make sure your brushes are paint-safe, such as this brush from OXO.  It is exceptionally soft and safe.