Your car cover is an essential accessory that protects your car from dust, dirt, debris, and harmful UV rays. It also helps to maintain the car’s paint finish and prevent scratches and fading.
Over time, the cover itself can become dirty and stained. Washing the car cover regularly will keep it clean and extend its lifespan. In this article, we will discuss
How to Wash Car Cover at Home?
01. Read the Care Label
Before washing your car cover, it’s crucial to read the care label to ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The care label will provide guidance on the appropriate washing temperature, washing cycle, and whether to use a dryer or not.
Failure to follow the care label instructions may damage the cover, leading to shrinkage or color fading.
02. Prepare the Washing Solution
Use a mild detergent and mix it with warm water in a large bucket. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can damage the cover’s waterproof and UV protection properties.
If the cover is heavily soiled, add a cup of white vinegar to the washing solution. Vinegar helps to remove stains, and odors, and disinfect the cover.
03. Soak the Cover
After preparing the washing solution, soak the cover in the bucket for at least 30 minutes. Soaking will help to loosen and remove any dirt, debris, and stains from the cover.
If the cover is too large to fit in the bucket, you can lay it flat on the ground and pour the washing solution over it.
04. Scrub and Rinse the Cover
After soaking, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to scrub the cover gently. Avoid using harsh brushes or scrubbers as they can damage the cover’s surface.
Scrub in a circular motion, starting from the top and working your way down. Rinse the cover thoroughly with a hose or a bucket of clean water to remove any remaining dirt or soap.
05. Dry the Cover
Once the cover is clean, it’s essential to dry it properly before storing it. Avoid wringing or twisting the cover as this can damage the fibers and cause wrinkles.
Instead, lay the cover flat on a clean surface and let it air dry. If you need to speed up the drying process, use a fan or a hairdryer on low heat.
Note: Do not use a high-heat dryer as this can shrink or melt the cover.
06. Store the Cover
After the cover is completely dry, fold it properly. Then store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing the cover in a plastic bag as this can trap moisture and cause mold or mildew.
Instead, use a breathable storage bag or wrap the cover in a cotton sheet.
A survey by AutoAnything, an online car accessory retailer, found that
“63% of car owners in the United States wash their car covers at least once a month. Of those surveyed, 42% preferred hand washing their covers, 29% used a washing machine, 14% used a power washer, and 15% opted for a professional cleaner. Additionally, 69% believed washing their car cover extended its lifespan. The survey highlights the importance of washing car covers as part of regular car maintenance.”
Source: AutoAnything. (2021, August 30).
Where to Wash Car Cover?
Tip 1: You can wash a car cover at home in a large top or front-loading washing machine. You can use warm water and mild detergent. You can machine dry the cover at medium heat.
Tip 2: You can also wash a car cover by hand. You can leave the cover on the car and wash it with mild detergent and a soft sponge or brush. You can rinse the cover and hang it to dry.
Tip 3: You can also take a car cover to the laundromat to wash it in an oversized washing machine.
How to Fold a Car Cover Properly?
Before storing your car cover, you have to fold it properly. This may seem like a simple task, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging the cover and ensure it remains in good condition.
We noted 04 steps to make the job done with ease.
01. Locate the Front and Back of the Cover
Most car covers are designed with a specific shape to fit the contours of the car. Locate the front and back of the cover by looking for the tag or label indicating the front or back.
02. Fold the Sides Inward
Start by folding the sides of the cover inward toward the center, making sure to keep the cover straight and taut. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases as you fold.
03. Fold the Cover in Half
Once the sides are folded inward, fold the cover in half from front to back, bringing the two ends of the cover together. Again, smooth out any wrinkles or creases as you fold.
04. Roll the Cover
After folding the cover in half, roll it up from the front to the back, making sure to keep the edges straight and aligned. Rolling the cover helps to reduce wrinkles and creases, making it easier to store.
Once the cover is rolled up, store it as we mentioned above.
Conclusion
Washing your car cover regularly will help to keep it clean and extend its lifespan. With these simple steps, your car cover will remain in good condition and continue to protect your car for years to come.
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