Aug '25 • Car detailing
Washing your wheels
Your wheels are one of the first things people notice on your car — and also one of the dirtiest parts. Between brake dust, road grime, and tar, they need extra attention. Here’s the step-by-step process to get them spotless without damaging the finish.
---
1. Start With the Right Tools & Products
Tools:
Wheel-specific cleaning brush (soft bristles)
Lug nut brush or detailing swabs
Microfiber wash mitt (separate from body mitt)
Grit guard + two buckets (one for wheels, one for rinse)
Microfiber drying towel
Products:
pH-balanced wheel cleaner (safe for coated, painted, or polished wheels)
Degreaser (for heavy build-up)
Tire cleaner or all-purpose cleaner for rubber
Spray sealant or wheel wax (optional for protection)
---
2. Clean Wheels First — Always
Your wheels are the dirtiest part of your car. Cleaning them first prevents splashing brake dust and grime onto a freshly washed car.
---
3. Rinse Thoroughly
Use a strong stream of water or a pressure washer to blast off loose dirt and brake dust.
Start from the top and work down.
Focus on the inner barrel as well as the face.
---
4. Apply Wheel Cleaner
Spray generously onto the wheel face, barrel, and lug areas.
Let it dwell for 30–60 seconds (follow product instructions).
For iron-removing wheel cleaners, you’ll see a purple reaction as it dissolves brake dust.
---
5. Agitate with the Right Brushes
Barrel brush: Reach deep into the wheel’s inner barrel.
Face brush: Gently scrub spokes and wheel face.
Lug nut brush: Get into the lug holes and tight areas.
Pro Tip: Never use stiff bristles on delicate wheel finishes.
---
6. Clean the Tires Too
Spray tire cleaner or all-purpose cleaner directly on rubber.
Scrub with a stiff tire brush until the foam turns white — this means all old tire dressing and grime are removed.
---
7. Rinse Again
Flush away all loosened dirt, cleaner, and brake dust.
Make sure nothing is left in crevices.
---
8. Dry Wheels
Use a clean microfiber towel just for wheels.
Compressed air or a leaf blower works great for getting water out of lug holes.
---
9. Protect the Finish (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Apply a wheel-specific wax, ceramic spray, or sealant.
This makes future cleaning easier and prevents brake dust from sticking as much.
---
10. Final Check
Spin each wheel slightly to see if you missed any spots.
Wipe down with a final microfiber if needed.
---
💡 Pro Tips for Long-Term Wheel Health:
Clean wheels regularly (every 1–2 weeks) to prevent baked-on brake dust.
Avoid acidic wheel cleaners unless absolutely necessary.
Keep a separate bucket, mitt, and towels for wheels to avoid scratching paintwork.
0
0 comments
Washing your wheels
skool.com/brandons-hangout-5012
Learn pro-level car detailing and basic repairs with step-by-step videos, trusted tool guides, and a supportive community.
Powered by