Best Time to Wash a Car: Seasonal Guide for Drivers

Is your car so caked in grime you can’t even remember its true color? Has some cheeky passerby scrawled “WASH ME” on your dusty rear windshield, turning your ride into the laughingstock of the parking lot? If that’s you, it’s time to give your vehicle a good scrub! But when is the best time to wash your car?

Timing is everything, and we’re here to help you figure out the ideal times to wash your car for the best results and a long-lasting shine.

What Is the Best Time to Wash Your Car?

First, let’s demystify the best time of day to wash the car and why.

• Early Morning or Late Afternoon: These are prime times when the sun isn’t too intense, so water spots and streaks don’t form from quick drying. Washing your car in the early morning also helps get rid of overnight dew, which can contain dirt and pollutants that might harm your car’s paint if left too long.

• Mild, Overcast Days: Cloudy days are your car’s best friend. Without the harsh sun, soap and water won’t dry too quickly, and you’ll be left with a clean finish. Mild temperatures are also easier on your car’s paint, reducing the risk of thermal stress that can occur during washing in extreme heat or cold.

Best Time to Wash Your Car in Summer

Summertime brings a specific set of challenges for car washing. Here’s how to tackle them for the best results:

Early morning and late afternoon are still the best times to wash your car in the summer. However, summer temperatures are warmer, and the season’s longer periods of intense heat can make it more challenging than at other times of year.

Waking up early to beat the morning heat isn’t practical for everyone. If you’re not a morning person, find a shaded area to get the job done, like under a tree or in the shadow of a building. That way, the sun doesn’t dry the soap and water too quickly and leave unsightly streaks.

Best Time to Wash Your Car in Winter

Getting a car wash is one of the best ways to protect your car during winter. Winter roads often have salt and grime on them, so frequent washes are essential to prevent corrosion. Here’s what you should consider before taking on the task.

Choose a day when the weather is slightly milder. Washing your car in a garage or covered area can also help in avoiding the effects of the cold.

Depending on your location, early morning or late afternoon may not be ideal due to freezing temperatures. The best time to wash the car in the winter is at midday when temperatures are warmest. You’re essentially doing the opposite of your summertime strategy. A midday scrub helps prevent water from freezing on your car, which can cause the paint to crack.

Consider the Weather Before a Car Wash

Weather can fluctuate regardless of the season. Here are three quick considerations when it comes to fluctuating weather factors.

• Wind: High winds can blow dust and debris onto your car while it’s wet, causing scratches.

• Rain: Believe it or not, washing your car in the rain can be a good idea, since it helps rinse away soap and residue.

• Humidity: High humidity can slow down the drying process, which is beneficial for preventing water spots.

Get Your Car Wash at Take 5, No Matter the Season

At Take 5, any time is the best time for a car wash. Whether it’s sweltering in the summer or frigid in the winter, you can sit inside the comfort of your vehicle while our team gives it a wash in our modern indoor facility. In addition to top-notch car washing, we offer waxing, rain and rust protection, and more. Visit one of our car wash locations and discover why our service is better than the rest.