Can You Wash a Wrapped Car?

December 28, 2021

Wrapping a car is totally on-trend right now—and with good reason. You can change the color, add any pattern you choose, swap glossy for matte… The only limitation is your imagination. 

But one question that many people don’t know the answer to is, can you wash a wrapped car? The answer to that is, yes, of course you can wash it. But there are a few provisos, so let’s take a look at what they are.

Caring for a Wrapped Car 

  • Washing a glossy or matte wrapped car
  • What about spot cleaning?

Washing a glossy or matte wrapped car

As we’ve already said, washing a wrapped car is fine. However, if you want your wrap to have longevity, then follow these car washing ‘rules’. 

  • Wash the vehicle whenever it gets dirty. For most, this means about once a week, although if you notice dirt building up then do it more often.
  • Hand washing is by far the best way to wash a wrapped car.
  • That said, if you absolutely have to go to a drive-thru car wash, then only ever use one that uses water spray and no brushes. Those with whirring around brushes are simply too harsh for a car wrap (and, if we’re honest, for any car paintwork). They’ll cause the wrap to degrade, eventually causing premature peeling and lifted edges.
  • You should also refrain from pressure washing in general. Again, if you absolutely must do it, make sure that pressure is below 2,000 psi, the temperature of the water is less than 140 degrees F, and the spray nozzle is set to a wide-angle pattern. Be sure not to let the nozzle get any closer than 12 inches to the car.
  • When it comes to the best way to wash a wrapped car—by hand, just so we’re clear about that—be sure to use a mild, specifically designed car wrap detergent, clean sponges, a good rinse post-washing, and dry thoroughly with a clean chamois.

What about spot cleaning?

Spot cleaning is essential for dirt or debris such as bug splats, tree sap, bird droppings, or other stains. Clean such marks away as soon as you notice them with a gentle detergent. Try not to do it in bright sunlight or when the paintwork is very warm as this could cause the wrap to wrinkle. Rinse well and dry afterward. 

Car Wrap Colors: Matte, Glossy, or the Sky’s the Limit

  • Choosing a car wrap. Colors, matte, or any finish is possible

Choosing a car wrap. Colors, matte, or any finish is possible

A quick word on choosing a car wrap because this is your chance to give your vehicle the look of your dreams. Matte car wraps are really popular right now, and you can let your imagination run wild when it comes to design. Bespoke artwork, sponsorship messages, or anything your heart desires. A great car wrap installer will work with you to create the exact design you want to ensure that your car really is one of a kind. 

Matte Wraps are so On Point. Contact Auto SuperShield for the Best Professional Installation

At Auto SuperShield we live, breathe, and dream car wraps and PPF. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that we’re obsessed. For us, the ultimate car porn is a newly wrapped car being driven out into the sunlight for the first time. It’s the perfect Insta moment and one that we never tire of creating.

Matte wraps are the hottest look on the block right now. And we love doing them… Plus we don’t mind extolling our own virtues, if you don’t mind—we’re pretty damn good at what we do.

Discover why we’re the provider of choice for the most fastidious of car owners in South Florida at https://www.autosupershield.com/car-wrap/matte-wrap and get in contact now to discuss your requirements.


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