Over the winter your ride may have taken a beating. Wind, rain and other elements encrust your car in a shell of dirt and grime. When spring hits, the pollen comes, and that fine yellow layer of dust attaches itself to the winter mess, leaving your car in bad shape. The shining sun only adds to the effect, letting people know that your car desperately needs a bath. Before someone writes, “wash me” on your rear window, it’s best to think about polishing your vehicle up for the warming weather and potential road trips. Houston is full of facilities designed to do just that. If you’re ready to spring clean your car, here are the steps you’ll want to take.
Spring Cleaning your Ride
It’s beneficial to thoroughly clean your car at least once a year. Spring is an optimal time to do so—it rids your vehicle of damaging grit before it adds to the normal wear and tear. There are several things you should consider when rolling up your sleeves to really get the job done. They are:
- Declutter – Start the process by going through your car like you would go through a room. Remove any clutter, and organize each compartment. Your glove box should have manuals, current license, registration and insurance. Toss any garbage, and add a road hazard kit and first aid kit to your trunk. Check that your spare is there and in working order, and make sure you have all items needed to change a tire.
- Look under the hood – Get under your hood and remove any debris. If you are doing a DIY cleaning job, make sure your fluids are full, and replace any that are depleted. You can have the the engine area professionally cleaned, or do a quick wipe down yourself. Hint: Never use a hose under your hood.
- The wheels – Check your tire pressure and tighten any loose nuts. If you’re polishing your own wheels, head to the auto store for a wheel and rim cleaner.
- Exterior – Use the proper cleaning substances to wash, rinse, dry and wax your car. Make sure to get every curve and corner, including mirrors and windows. This is also a good time to replace your windshield wipers.
- Interior – Focus on upholstery, the console and mats. Also do a wipe down of the windows from inside the car. Try to remove any stains and odors, and address any damage.
If you don’t feel like taking the time or don’t have the space or materials, you can also enlist the help of some Houston area car washing centers.
4 Spring Car Cleaning Centers to Take your Ride to in Houston
Mister Car Wash
Mister Car Wash has several levels of cleaning available, like exterior, detail express, full serve and more. This national car wash company offers a membership club that gives you some excellent discounts. The company's first location was in Houston in 1969, and now Houston has nine locations to serve you. They are known for clean facilities, a comfortable waiting area and free popcorn. They can even change your oil too.
Ocean Car Wash
Ocean Car Wash is located at 11210 Scarsdale Boulevard. Prices are competitive, and you can get anything from an express wash to a full service wash package. Add full interior cleanings or a quick carpet clean. The menu offers everything you need.
iShineExpress
Get your car prepped for spring with services from iShineExpress. They boast exceptional quality, great customer service and free unlimited turbo-powered vacuums. They work to make their services affordable, and have your car done in 30 minutes are less. No reservations are necessary, just drive over to one of the four locations near Houston. If you’re in a hurry, there’s even an express tunnel wash that takes less than three minutes.
Splash Hand Car Wash
Splash Hand Car Wash is open daily to get your ride shiny, sparkling clean. Save yourself a lot of time by paying $18 for a wash, dry, vacuum, wipe and more that only takes 15 minutes. With three locations in Houston, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting your car cleaned for spring.
Taking care of your car with regular cleaning helps retain its value and extends its life. Each spring, take the time to do a thorough cleaning so you are proud of the way your ride looks, and to keep it looking good for years to come.
