VEHICLE WRAPS aren’t meant to be installed and forgotten. Like the rest of your vehicle, your vehicle wrap requires regular cleaning and maintenance. For longer-lasting, vibrant color, wash your wrap on a regular basis and keep your vehicle away from possible pollutants. This will help with VEHICLE WRAP PROTECTION!
How often should I wash my vehicle wrap?
Wash your wrap once a week or more often if your vehicle is exposed to a lot of dirt or pollutants. You can use a gentle automotive detergent if necessary – any good brand will work. Always use a nice automotive sponge or clean, soft cloth to wash your wrap. Rinse vehicle with clear water after washing. Minimize water spotting by using a silicone squeegee or chamois to remove water. Dry with a clean microfiber cloth.
Can I use a car wash?
You can bring your wrapped vehicle to an automated brushless car wash, though hand washing is safer and more thorough. Brush car washes may be too rough on the film, degrading it and causing peeling and lifted edges. If a car wash uses water spray and no brushes, it should be safe for most wraps. The number one cause of wrap failure is water getting behind the vinyl, neutralizing the adhesive. Once the water touches the adhesive backing, there is no fixing it. We recommend hand washing to avoid this replacement need. AVOID TIRE SHINE, as this causes staining and damage to the vinyl wrap.
What should I use for spot cleaning?
Use Simple Green or diluted isopropyl rubbing alcohol to spot clean isolated stains. Rinse area with cool water after cleaning. Don’t use tire dressing to spot clean as it may splash on the wrap and cause stains. Avoid wiping the wrap when it’s hot; this can distort the material and cause wrinkling.
How do I clean droppings, insects, tree sap, etc?
Clean bird droppings and difficult stains immediately. Letting them sit for too long will make them harder to remove and may permanently damage the wrap. Soak the affected area for a few minutes with warm, soapy water to loosen the contaminants. Rinse completely and dry with a microfiber cloth. For stubborn contaminants, use two parts isopropyl alcohol to one part water. Always test these solutions on a small area that’s not easily noticeable to ensure the cleaner will not harm the wrap. Do not use solvents or oil-based cleaning products!
What about gas or fuel spills?
Wipe off fuel spills immediately, then handwash the affected area. Gasoline will eat the vinyl material if left on too long. A quick wipe with a wet paper towel at a gas station will clean the fuel affected area decently enough until you can get home to do a more thorough job.
Can I park my vehicle outdoors for long periods?
Excessive amounts of time under the sun or other outdoor elements (rain, smog, debris, and road pollutants from passing cars) can degrade the wrap on the roof, trunk lid and hood. These horizontal areas are a magnet for pollutants, which are intensified by UV ray exposure. Try your best to park your car in a garage or under a canopy or shelter. If you must park it outside for prolonged periods, look for shady parking areas or use a cover.
What products should I avoid when cleaning my wrap?
Never, EVER use any of the following cleaning products on your wrap:
- Solvents
- Oil-based cleaners
- Kitchen & Bathroom Cleaners
- Oven cleaner
- Orange Oil
- Engine Degreaser
- Windex
Want to protect your wrap and make it easy to clean?
Find out more about our ceramic coating service!