To avoid water spots, dry the car straight after rinsing, in the shade, with a clean microfibre towel or blown air. Spots form when water evaporates on the paint and leaves its minerals behind, so the aim is to remove the water before the sun does.
What causes water spots?
Tap water and rainwater carry dissolved minerals and dirt. When a droplet dries on a warm panel, the water goes and the deposit stays, leaving a pale ring.
Fresh spots wash off. Spots that are left to bake in the sun again and again can mark the surface and may then need polishing to remove.
How should you dry the car?
Work quickly and gently, from the top down.
- Rinse thoroughly first, so no soap or loose dirt is left on the paint.
- Move the car into shade, or wash early or late in the day when the panels are cool.
- Use a clean, soft microfibre drying towel. Lay it on the panel and pat or draw it lightly across; do not scrub.
- Switch to a dry towel when the first one is soaked.
- Dry the glass and mirrors as well, because spots show most there.
Why do professionals use blown air?
Water hides in door mirrors, badges, grilles, door handles and panel gaps, then runs out later and leaves streaks. Blown air pushes that water out without anything touching the paint, which is why it is used for finishing after a wash.
What should you avoid?
Most drying damage comes from a few habits.
- Letting the car dry on its own in direct sun
- Using an old bath towel, a rough cloth or one that has been dropped on the ground
- Wiping a panel that still has dirt on it
- Using the same cloth on the wheels and the paint
Does wax help?
Yes. On waxed paint, water gathers into beads and runs off more easily, so there is less to dry and less chance of spots forming.
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