Sometime after you roll out of your parking lot with your brand-new vehicle wrap, you will drive it through mud, or notice a small layer of dust collecting over that vibrant color. You need to know how to care for your vehicle wrap, not only to keep it looking it’s best but also to ensure that it remains in good condition and reaches its full life span. Here’s how to care for your vehicle or truck wrap without damaging it:
1. Choose a soft scrubber
There are a few cleaning tools that are soft enough to clean a vehicle wrap. They include:
- Soft foam sponges
- Soft cloth
- Microfiber cloth
2. Choose your soap
You do not want to use soap directly on the vehicle. Instead, mix the soap with water first to dilute it. Use a gentle detergent meant for dishes or specifically for cleaning vehicles.
3. Wet the vehicle
Start by getting the vehicle wet with a hose on low pressure. You may use cold or warm water.
You may use a pressure washer on many truck wraps, but you have to be very careful about it. The PSI must be kept low, at least under 2000. Use a wide-angle spray pattern and spray the water at a 90-degree angle. If your pressure washer has a hot water option, do not use it.
The benefits of using a pressure washer on a truck wrap are low, and the danger is high, so we generally recommend you avoid it.
4. Soap it up
Using your sponge or brush, work the soap into the vehicle. Do not scrub harshly.
5. Rinse the vehicle
Rinse off the soap with your garden hose. If you wish, you can dry off the vehicle with a soft cloth, ideally a microfiber cloth.
Things to avoid when cleaning your truck wrap
There are a few things you must not use when washing your vehicle wrap, including:
- Rough foam sponges meant to scrub pans clean
- Car brushes meant for removing snow and ice
- Bristle brushes of any kind
- Harsh chemical cleaners, especially ammonia
- Laundry detergent
Get custom vehicle wraps, truck wraps, and more at Captivating Signs
Do you need a quality, customized vehicle wrap or truck wrap for your business? Reach out to us at Captivating Signs to get started!
