Caring for Your Vehicle Wrap

Unless you don’t care about your vehicle’s wrap, you’ll always want to keep it clean and looking its best. Regularly washing your wrapped car is essential—not only to maintain its appearance but also to prolong the life of the wrap.

If you frequently drive in areas with high elevation, heavy congestion, or industrial pollution, you need to be even more diligent. Increased exposure to UV rays, smog, and pollutants in these environments can shorten the lifespan of the wrap if it is not properly maintained.

How to Properly Wash a Wrapped Vehicle

There are several ways to clean a wrapped car effectively. However, before you begin, make sure to avoid the following:

What You Should Avoid When Cleaning Your Wrapped Vehicle

  • Automatic Brush Wash
    Automatic brush washes pose a high risk of damaging the wrap. The brushes can catch the edges of the film, causing scratches, lifting, or dulling the surface.
  • Wax and Polish
    Most waxes contain petroleum distillates, which can degrade and damage the wrap.

The Safe Way to Wash a Wrapped Vehicle

Hand Wash (Recommended)

This is the safest and most effective method.

  • Pre-rinse your vehicle to remove loose dirt and debris, preventing scratches.
  • Use a sponge with a mild soapy water solution. Avoid detergents with abrasive components, strong solvents, or alcohols. Always test any detergent on a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the entire wrap.
  • Wash from top to bottom to prevent dirt from being dragged across the surface. Avoid scrubbing, as it may cause abrasion. Be especially careful when cleaning the edges to prevent lifting.
  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water after washing.
  • Let the wrap dry naturally. If needed, use a silicone squeegee to remove excess water and prevent spotting. Then, finish drying with a microfiber or soft, non-abrasive towel.

Waterless Wash

If your vehicle is only lightly soiled, a waterless wash is a great option. These specialized products help maintain the wrap’s gloss and performance. However, always test any product on a small area before widespread use. If the product contains wax, it may leave glossy spots on the film.

Automatic Brushless Wash

While not the best choice, an automatic brushless wash can be used if it contains no brushes and no wax. If possible, allow the vehicle to air dry or use a microfiber towel.

Pressure Washer (Use with Caution)

Pressure washing should be a last resort if other cleaning methods fail. Be extremely careful, as improper use can cause the edges to lift or degrade the wrap.

Follow these guidelines:

  • Keep water pressure below 1200 psi (8 bars or 84 kg/cm²).
  • Keep water temperature below 180°F (82°C).
  • Maintain a minimum distance of 12 inches between the nozzle and the wrap.

By following these cleaning methods, you’ll keep your vehicle’s wrap looking great and lasting longer.