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How do you make car shampoo?

Can I make car shampoo myself? I hate paying extra money for cleaners that are easy to DIY.

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“If you want to make your own car shampoo, you’ll need generic-brand dish soap, bubble bath for kids, and water.
And if you’re looking for a truly foamy wash, you’ll also need a spray bottle that hooks to your hose or a car wash cannon (sometimes called a foam blaster). You can pick one up at Home Depot, Amazon, or an auto parts store.
Once you have your shampoo ingredients and spray bottle, here’s what to do:
  • Mix together 1/4 cup dish soap and 1/4 cup bubble bath in the spray bottle. Fill to the top with water.
  • Hose off the underside of your car and your wheels with plain water.
  • Attach the spray bottle or cannon to your hose, and apply the shampoo to your car.
  • Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse the suds away.
Note that generic (or store-brand) soaps are typically safer on your car, as are delicate soaps meant for children. Higher-end soaps, on the other hand, may contain additives that could harm your car’s wax finish or leave water spots after drying.
Good on you for keeping your car squeaky clean! Shampooing your vehicle regularly will help maintain its
retail value
, so you can sell it or trade it in for more money when you want to buy something newer.
To free up room in your budget for other types of car maintenance, the
Jerry
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