Is Dish Soap On Car Really Harmful To Car Body?
Well, it is always easy to say that something is safe or unsafe, but what counts is the rationale behind it. This blog post tells you whether or not dish soap on car is safe, and why.
This is one question that online forums are flooded with. There are a large number of people who use liquid dish soap to wash their cars.
But, there are also those who are skeptical of the idea. So, the question always remains if liquid dish soap is actually safe for car wash!
Is Liquid Dish Soap On Car Safe For Car Wash?
The clear answer is obviously NO!
Yes, we know that many of you use it. We also know that it makes your car look squeaky clean, especially after a dirt-filled road trip. It is also true that it can even clean some tough stuff like bird turd.
But, here is something for you to chew on. Does your car’s wax/polish shine last more than a couple of weeks? If you use dish soap on car, probably not!
While you may think that your car service did not give your car a good wax coat, the fault may actually lie elsewhere. It is the dish washing liquid that is damaging the wax layer and making your new car look as dull as a used car.
SEE MORE:
Why Isn’t Dish Soap On Car Safe For Your Car?
Despite the fact that liquid dish soap on car has the ability to take the toughest dirt and stains off your car’s body, it harms the wax coating. In fact, because of the amazing dirt and grease cutting quality, it can cut the wax too.
It is clear that cleaning your car with dishwashing soap can actually shorten the life of car wax. Within a few weeks of continued washing, you will notice a decrease in shine and well, no water beads any more.
Dishwashing detergents are concoctions that can remove grease that food leaves on dishes. They contain cleaning agents that can break down the layer of wax and leave the surface unprotected.
With this loss of protection, there is a visible loss in shine. And, it is equally true for the tough SUVs as for delicate sedans. With consistent washing, there is a lot you are going to lose.
How To Wash A Car Safely Then?
The best way to wash a car is with a trusted car wash soap, plain water, and a soft cleaning sponge. You could also apply reliable wax to help your car always look shiny. That is how gentle car wash should be.
An extremely useful way to test the gentleness of soap is to take a drop on your finger and rub it against your thumb. The slipperier it is, the better it will be for the wax.
The less slippery ones may contain detergents that help cut dirt, and thus, wax too. So, make sure that you check before you buy one.
Besides Car Soap, What Other Products Can You Use On Cars?
- A brush or additional sponge for tires
- Buckets – one for water and one for soapy water
- Washing mitt or sponge which are made from sheepskin or microfiber
- Wheel cleaner
- Bug and tar remover
- Microfiber drying towel, chamois cloth and/or squeegee
- Wax, either spray or rub-on (optional)
- Polish (not obligatory)
FAQs
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Can dish soap damage the car’s clear coat?
Yes, dish soap can potentially damage the car’s clear coat. It often contains harsh detergents that can break down the protective clear coat layer, leading to a dull or faded appearance over time.
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Will using dish soap on my car cause it to lose its shine?
Regular use of dish soap can lead to a loss of shine on your car’s body. It can remove the wax or sealant that gives your car its glossy finish.
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Can dish soap cause scratches on the car’s paint?
Dish soap itself is not likely to cause scratches, but if you use a dirty sponge or cloth to wash your car, it can introduce particles that may scratch the paint during washing.
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What’s the best alternative to dish soap for washing a car?
The best alternative is to use a car-specific shampoo or soap that is pH-balanced and designed to clean without harming the paint or clear coat. These products are formulated to remove dirt while preserving the car’s finish.
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Can I use dish soap in an emergency if I run out of car soap?
In a pinch, you can use dish soap, but it’s not ideal. Make sure to dilute it significantly, use a soft sponge, and rinse thoroughly to minimize potential damage until you can obtain proper car washing products.
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Are there any benefits to using dish soap on a car?
The primary benefit of using dish soap is its cleaning power. It can effectively remove dirt and grime. However, its long-term use can lead to negative consequences for the car’s appearance and finish.
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How often should I wax my car to protect it from the potential harm of dish soap?
Waxing your car every 3-6 months is a good practice to maintain a protective layer on the paint and clear coat. This helps mitigate the potential harm caused by using dish soap or other harsh cleaning agents.
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Can using dish soap affect the resale value of my car?
Yes, using dish soap on your car regularly and neglecting proper care can lead to a deterioration of the paint and clear coat, which may impact the resale value negatively.
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What’s the bottom line regarding using dish soap on a car’s body?
It’s best to avoid using dish soap for regular car washing. Opt for car-specific soaps and follow proper car care practices to maintain the vehicle’s appearance and protect its finish in the long run.
To keep your car shining, it’s important that you pay enough attention to dish soap on car and car maintenance. It is easy to do at home. In fact, washing the car the right way can make your car look shiny again.
