Why you shouldn’t use dishwashing liquid on your car, ever.
Would you wash your dinner plates with a car wash?
‘No definitely not, that's crazy, it's not made for the job!‘
Well, then why would you wash your car with dishwashing liquid? Don’t laugh, many people do, and if you are one of those people, for the sake of your car and maintaining its value, it's time to stop.
But why? My car is really clean after I use dishwashing liquid. Well, it may be for a little while but:
Dishwashing liquid is designed to cut grease fast on plates and cookware. To do that, it uses strong surfactants (cleaning agents that break down oils and residues). Great for dishes but way too harsh for your car's paint, trim, exterior plastics and seals.
The surfactants in dishwashing liquid cut through all the protective layers on your paint, the waxes, the sealants and the water repellent. It can dry out and fade the car's trim and seals and exterior plastics. We've all seen those cars getting around with very dull trim and bumpers.
So what's different about scientifically developed car wash, such as Big Hands Australia, Zi-400 Ultra? It’s time to wash your car properly.
Paint needs lubrication while washing so you don’t scratch or mark it or create swirls - a good car wash lubricates and lifts dirt at the same time.
A quality car wash is pH-balanced. This matters because if it’s not a balanced or neutral pH (level of acidity or alkalinity), it can strip away existing protections and at worst damage your paint and trim. Quality car wash products are formulated by chemists to be gentle and paint safe and still clean beautifully.
Quality - is particularly important if you wash your car regularly.
Specialist products with different pH balance are available but for specific purposes, including commercial car washes - so be careful.
If you love your car, or even just like it, don’t use dishwashing liquid, ever. Quality products not only clean safely and effectively but can add protection such as water beading and anti corrosion properties.
Our view at Big Hands Australia
Keep it simple: use a proper car wash product scientifically designed for paint protection, and finish. It’s easier to use, protects your investment, and gives you peace of mind. Clean should never come at a cost to your paintwork.