Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How do you dry your car after washing?

What do I use to dry my car? I’ve heard there is an incorrect way to wipe down your vehicle after washing it.

avatar
Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question!
To avoid watermarks and stains, there is definitely a recommended method to dry your car after washing it.
While many people opt for a regular microfiber towel to dry their car, consider using a microfiber waffle-weave towel instead. The latter is designed for drying.
Materials you will need to dry your car include:
  • Microfiber waffle-weave towel
  • Quick detailer or drying aid
  • Stepping stool (optional)
  • Forced-air dryer (optional)
Step one: Start by wiping down the roof of your vehicle. Always begin drying from the highest surface. If you need assistance reaching the top of your car, use a stepping stool.
Step two (optional): To speed up the drying process, use a quick detailer or drying aid.
Step three: Use your microfiber waffle-weave towel to wipe down the car in side-to-side motions. The cloth will retain more water this way. Alternatively, if you have an air dryer, you can use that in place of the towel.
Step four: While you are wiping down your vehicle, remember to wring out your towel every once in a while. In addition, periodically ensure it’s free from debris. If it looks dirty, replace the towel with a clean one and continue wiping down your car.
Step four: When the roof is dry, move on to the hood or the trunk. Repeat steps two and three to dry these areas, as well as the rest of the car.
Good luck!
It is clear you take care of your car, so ensure it’s protected by great car insurance—without overpaying for it. The
Jerry
app makes it easy.
Jerry is an insurance comparison app that shops for low prices with over 50 different insurance companies for free. You will get quotes in seconds, can make changes at any time, and if you ever have any questions, agents are just a text away!
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings