Learn how to care for your new vehicle wrap.
If your vehicle isn’t too dirty, we recommend a waterless wash. Start by doing a quick hand wash of your vehicle’s exterior surface. Then, use a waterless wash product to complete the process. Before using any new waterless wash product, make sure to test it on your vehicle’s wrap surface first. Once you complete the waterless wash, seal your wrap to make it easier to clean off every day dirt and stains.
If you want to give your vehicle a deeper clean to remove dirt and residue, follow these handwashing steps:
- Use a hose to rinse off your entire vehicle with clean water. Doing this will remove loose dirt particles and help you prevent scratching the graphics.
- Then, use mild, soapy water and a soft cloth or synthetic sponge to gently wash your car. Start at the top of your car and work down. Do not abrade the surface with any unnecessary scrubbing.
- Rinse any excess soap off with clean water.
- Finally, let your wrap dry naturally. To prevent any water spotting, use a silicone squeegee to remove any excess water on the surface.
Common Questions About Vehicle Wrap Care
When handwashing, what detergent should I use?
We recommend using a mild car cleaning detergent that does not have any strong, soluble substances in it. You should also avoid detergents with abrasive components or alcohol. Generally speaking, the detergent you choose should have a pH balance between 5 and 9.
How soon can I wash my car?
After you have a wrap applied to your car, do not wash it for the first 48 hours. When this 2-day period is over, we suggest washing your car every two weeks.
Can I wax my car if it has a vehicle wrap on it?
As the long as the wash doesn’t contain any petroleum distillates (a common ingredient in paste waxes), you can wax your car. If your car isn’t excessively dirty and doesn’t have a matte finish, a combination of wax and waterless wash can help you maintain your car’s appearance.
How should I clean tough spots?
Spot clean tree sap, bug splatter, bird droppings, and other contaminants to avoid any damage to your vehicle film. Start by soaking the spot with hot, soapy water and then rinsing it off thoroughly. You can also remove tough spots with a clean, non-abrasive rag and isopropyl alcohol.
Exceptional work and would highly recommend.
“Chris was so easy to work with. He communicated very well always and even sent updated pics along the way. He even explained some details about my car I did not know, In the end, I love the wrap on my car!! Exceptional work and would highly recommend. I would consider wraps to be like tattoo prices; you get what you pay for, and this is so worth the money. Thanks again!!”
★★★★★ Justin M.
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If your wrap has a matte finish, we recommend using a waterless wash product meant specifically for matte finishes. For example, Croftgate’s After Care is a good option. Avoid waterless wash products that contain wax because they can fill in the texture and cause shiny spots. To spot clean your matte finish film, use a 50/50 mix of water and isopropyl alcohol.
If you have any other questions, or want to go over the information included in our vehicle wrap care guide, contact us at Harbor Wraps.
FAQs About Caring for Your Vehicle Wrap
A vehicle wrap is an excellent way to give your car some personality or to advertise your business. Below, we’ve answered some common questions we receive about caring for our vehicle wraps.
Can I take my car through a car wash?
We do not recommend taking your vehicle through the car wash if it has a wrap on it. To preserve the graphics on your wrap, we suggest handwashing instead.
Why is it important to clean my vehicle wrap?
How often should I wash my car?
When should I give my car a waterless wash?
What kind of wax should I use?
At Harbor Wraps, we offer vehicle wrap care guides for customers in Columbus, Plain City, Upper Arlington, Hilliard, Newark, Lancaster, Delaware, Westerville, Worthington, and Dublin, Ohio.
Why choose Harbor Wraps?
Check out what some of our customers have said about our vehicle wraps and other services.
Contact us to learn more about vehicle wraps and how to care for them.
We can provide you with the vehicle wrap you envision for your vehicle.
Proper Care is Crucial for Maintaining Your Vehicle Wrap
