There’s no better feeling than cruising around in a shiny, freshly cleaned car. With these car wash tips, your ride will look brand new.

Use quality cleaners
The very first step to an impeccable car wash is to use the right materials. Specifically, it’s important to use only the highest-quality cleaners. From insect remover to all-purpose cleaner, investing in some stand-out products will make all the difference in the long run.

Avoid rough towels
Not only do you have to pay attention to the cleaner you use, but it’s also important to use towels that are not too harsh on your car. Opt for microfiber towels and wash mitts, as those are gentle and more effective at lifting dirt and debris. This is one car wash tip that will keep your ride totally streak-free.

Keep tools sanitary
If you happen to drop your towel on the ground while you wash your car, it’s best to grab a new, clean one. Keeping the tools you use sanitary is an absolute must to give your car the perfect finish. The ground is filled with dirt and germs—if you drop a towel and proceed to use it anyway, you essentially undo the work you’ve already done.

Use multiple buckets
One bucket simply won’t cut it if you want to get the best car wash possible. Rinsing the dirt on your wash mitt off between each dip in the soapy water is a must. Reserve one bucket for soapy water and use the other to rinse any dirt and grime off your towel. That way, no cross-contamination will occur, and you’ll get a streak-free surface.

Wash when the sun is lower
While it’s appealing to wash your car when the sun is shining, it’s important to resist that temptation. The issue with this is that the sun’s heat can dry the car too quickly. For the most effective clean, it’s best to keep your car wet until it’s time to dry it at the very end. If it dries prematurely, it can lead to water spots all over your car. To avoid this outcome, wash it in the shade, in the evening, or on a cloudy day.