Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

What do I need to wash my car?

I’m planning on washing my car this weekend, but I’ve never actually washed my car by hand before—what do I need to wash my car?

avatar
Andrew Biro · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
To wash a car at home, you’ll need the following:
  • Car washing soap
  • A microfiber car wash mitt or soft sponge
  • A hose
  • Two buckets
  • At least one large microfiber towel
Brands like Meguiar’s and Chemical Guys are the highest-rated car washing soap, but your local auto shop will have several options.
Using a soft sponge or microfiber car wash mitt helps minimize the chances of scratching your paint job while washing your vehicle.
You’ll need a hose to be able to fill up your buckets but also to rinse off your vehicle—for this reason; we recommend using a hose nozzle that has several settings.
Your two buckets will be used to contain clean water and dirty water.
Lastly, you’ll want at least one large microfiber towel to dry off your vehicle after washing and rinsing it off.
If you plan on washing your wheels as well, you’ll need to purchase a wheel cleaning solution and a wheel cleaning brush.
Are you overpaying for your car insurance? Make sure you’re getting the best deal possible by signing up with licensed
car insurance
comparison app and broker
Jerry
—once you download the app, all you have to do is answer a short questionnaire and Jerry will start comparing dozens of affordable quotes from the nation’s top insurers.
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