If you love your car and want it to look its best all the time, then a detailing service might be right for you. A professional detailer will use their expertise and special equipment to clean and restore your vehicle, giving it that “showroom” appearance that you want. But if you’re considering starting your own car detailing business, there are a few things that you need to know first.

In addition to vacuuming and air purging the interior of a vehicle, many detailers also use specialty cleaners to remove stubborn stains. They might even steam clean the carpets and seats, or scrub the wheels and tires to remove built-up grime. They may also apply protective coatings or waxes to help keep your car looking its best.

A full-service detailing package typically involves the paintwork, as well. It may start with a pressure wash to remove dirt and grit, then the surface will be clay bared to eliminate hard-to-eliminate scratches. The paint may then be polished by hand or with a machine to give it a smooth, shiny finish. The windows and exterior trim will also be cleaned and protected with sealants or waxes.

Inside the vehicle, all surfaces, including the dashboard and entertainment console, are vacuumed and cleaned to remove dust and dirt from hard-to-reach corners and crevices. If the car has leather seats or other trim, they might be cleaned with a special cleaner. All door interiors, the trunk and glove box are also typically cleaned. Many detailers will also treat any headlights that have become hazy or dim, as this improves the brightness of the lights and makes it easier to see when driving at night.

While sponges were once the go-to car cleaning tools, it’s now recommended to use microfiber cloths instead, as these are super soft and are designed to clean and dry your vehicle without leaving behind any scratches. Likewise, many professionals will only use high-quality automotive products that are safe for your vehicle’s finish and interior.

Getting your car detailed regularly can help you save money in several ways. For starters, the lifespan of your vehicle is extended, so you won’t need to repair it as often or at an earlier age. Additionally, your engine will run more smoothly and efficiently, which means you’ll use less gas.

In addition, a regularly-detailed car will help you feel more confident and proud to drive it around. And lastly, it can be a great way to impress friends and colleagues! In short, a nicely-detailed vehicle shows that you care about your car, which can make people think highly of you. So whether you’re looking for a little more satisfaction from your vehicle, or you’re thinking about selling it, car detailing is definitely worth the investment!