Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
No, you should not use Dawn to clean your car. While Dawn is a powerful cleaning agent, it is not meant for vehicle use. Instead, choose a product that is specifically designed for cleaning cars. This will ensure that your car’s finish is not damaged and that the cleaning process is as efficient as possible.
What Is Dawn?
Dawn is a dishwashing liquid known for its ability to cut through grease. It is also very effective at removing stains.
Why is washing a car with dish soap controversial?
Washing a car with dish soap is controversial because it can strip away the wax on your car’s paint job. This makes your car paint look dull and unsafe. If you must wash your car with soap, use a product designed for washing cars.
Areas Of The Car Where Dawn Is Ok To Use
-
- Tires
- Windows And Windshield
- Under The Hood
- Exterior Trim And Bumpers
- Lights
- Engine
- Mats
- Fabric Seat Cover
- Upholstery Stains
The Risks Of Using Dawn Dish Soap On Your Car
- Dish soap strips away the natural oils from your car’s paint. This can lead to premature aging and fading.
- Dish soap is a harsh cleanser, which can be tough on sensitive car parts like rubber and plastic.
- If you don’t rinse well enough, dish soap can leave behind a soapy film that will attract dirt and dust.
- Using dish soap on your car can void certain warranties.
Car Wash Soap Alternatives
Hand Soap: Hand soap is a gentler alternative to dish soap, but there are better choices for washing your car. It can strip away wax and damage sensitive car parts like rubber and plastic.
Baby Shampoo: Baby shampoo is a safe and gentle alternative to dish soap. It’s designed to be gentle on sensitive skin so it won’t strip away wax or damage car parts. Plus, it’s cheap and easy to find.
Baking soda: Baking soda is a mild abrasive used to clean your car’s paint, chrome, and upholstery. Just make sure to dilute it with water, so it doesn’t scratch your paint.
Vinegar: Vinegar is a mild acid that can cut through dirt and grime. But it should be used on something other than cars with wax finishes.
Rubbing alcohol: Rubbing alcohol can clean your car’s upholstery and windows. Just be sure to dilute it with water, so it doesn’t damage your car’s finish.
Windex: Windex is a glass cleaner that can also be used to clean your car’s windows and mirrors.
FAQs
What Type of Soap Should You Use?
Don’t risk it; use a dedicated car wash product designed for your car’s needs!
Is Dish Soap Safe For Your Car’s Clear Coat?
No, dish soap is not safe for your car’s clear coat.
What are the main ingredients you don’t want in your dish soap?
The main ingredient you don’t want in your dish soap is sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). SLS is a detergent that can strip away wax protection and damage sensitive car parts like rubber and plastic.
What’s the difference between dishwashing soap and regular car wash soap?
Car wash soap is designed to be more lubricated and less abrasive than dishwashing soap, which means it won’t strip away wax or damage paint.
Is it true that dish soap scratches car paint?
If you use dish soap to wash your car, it is more likely that you will scratch the paint. Dish soap is not designed to be gentle on surfaces like car paint.
Can dish soap dry out plastics and trim on your vehicle?
Dish soap can dry out plastics and trim on your vehicle if it is used excessively or if it is not rinsed off thoroughly. If you use dish soap to clean your vehicle, use mild soap and avoid scrubbing the plastics and trimming too hard.
Is liquid dish soap bad for a vehicle’s paint?
Using dish soap on your car’s paint is not recommended.
What Do I Need To Wash My Car?
You will need a bucket, water, soap, a sponge or washcloth, and a chamois or drying cloth to wash your car.
How Often Should I Wash My Car?
You should wash your car every two weeks.
Conclusion
Dawn dish soap is a powerful cleaning agent used for various cleaning tasks. It is best to avoid using household cleaners on your car. They are not designed for automotive surfaces and may damage the paint or cause other problems. If you must use a household cleaner, test it on a small area first and use it as directed. When washing your car, it is best to use a dedicated car wash product. Car wash soap is designed to be gentle on surfaces like paint.
