As summer rolls into the UK, your car faces new threats — intense sunlight, bug splatter, bird droppings, and dusty roads. Protecting your pride and joy doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right tools and techniques, you can maintain a sparkling finish throughout the warmer months. Here’s your ultimate summer cleaning checklist, powered by top-quality, in-stock products from My Car Cleaning.
1. Begin with a Safe Pre-Wash
The pre-wash stage is vital for loosening dirt without making direct contact. This helps to prevent swirl marks and micro-scratches. Use a quality pre-wash like the Valet-Pro Citrus PRE Wash, which creates a thick blanket of suds that clings to dirt and grime. Pair it with the Hydro Snow Foam 1L for a deeper clean if needed.
Both of these products are designed for maximum foaming with foam lances and pressure washers, helping you strip away contaminants safely. If you’re serious about the pre-wash stage, these foams are a must-have in your arsenal.
2. Shampoo with Slickness and Care
Once the pre-wash is rinsed off, it’s time for the main wash using the two-bucket method. A great option here is Jennychem Cherry Bomb Shampoo 5L, which provides lubricating power to lift remaining contaminants off the paint safely. Use a high-quality wash mitt like the Gtechniq - WM2 Microfibre Wash Mitt perfect for your contact wash.
This stage ensures you're removing the last bits of grime with minimal risk to your paintwork.
3. Dry with Precision
Drying is a step many overlook, but doing it wrong can leave behind streaks or cause scratches. The best method is a combination of a quality towel and air dryer. If you're going old-school, opt for a plush microfibre like the Duel Auto Care Duel Triple Twisted Loop Drying Towel. Alternatively, use a car dryer like the BLO AIR-GT Car Dryer, which ensures a contactless finish.
Pat dry panels gently instead of dragging the towel — this keeps the paint swirl-free and pristine.
4. Protect with Wax or Sealant
Now that your paint is clean and dry, it’s time to lay down some protection. In the summer, UV rays can cause paint to oxidise and fade, so applying a wax or spray sealant is crucial.
If you’re after a quick solution, the Gyeon Q2M Wet Coat is a brilliant spray-on sealant. It adds instant hydrophobic protection, enhances gloss, and leaves your car slick to the touch — perfect for weekly top-ups during hotter months.
5. Restore Glass Clarity
With more daylight hours and bright sun, streak-free glass is non-negotiable. Use the Infinity Wax Spotless Glass Cleaner to remove fingerprints, dust, and bugs from all windows and mirrors. It works great on both interior and exterior glass and won’t leave behind any annoying smears.
6. Revive Your Interior
Summertime often means hot seats and sweaty drives, so your interior deserves just as much attention. A versatile option like ValetPRO Classic Carpet Cleaner can refresh your mats and upholstery, while the Gyeon Q²M Interior Detailer keeps your dashboard, plastics, and screens looking fresh and bacteria-free.
These interior products don’t just clean — they also leave a pleasant scent and a non-greasy finish.
7. Finish with Tyre & Trim Dressing
A gleaming body and spotless windows aren’t complete without dressed tyres. Use the Gyeon Q² Tire 500ml to restore that deep black satin finish. It applies easily, lasts well even in rain, and brings that final “just detailed” look to your vehicle.
Apply it with a foam applicator and avoid overspray for best results.
Conclusion
A great summer detail isn’t about overcomplicating things — it’s about using the right products in the right order. With this checklist and the high-performance items available at My Car Cleaning, you’ll have all the tools you need to keep your vehicle protected and looking its best under the British sun.