How to Polish a Car

Polishing a car can be a lot of work, but the gleaming results will be well worth it. Polishes come in liquids, pastes and "systems" of two or more products to be used consecutively. Here's what to use and how to use them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Liquid Fabric Softeners
• Car Polish
• Terry Cloth Towels

1. Wash the car (see Related eHows) out of direct sunlight.
2. Read the car polish label carefully. Some products will stain plastic trim; others must be applied within a certain temperature range.
3. Work on one section at a time.
4. Apply a 1-inch circle of polish to a dampened, clean, 100 percent cotton terry cloth towel.
5. Rub the polish onto the car body in a circular motion.
6. Let the polish dry to a haze.
7. Use a different towel of the same type (dry this time) to buff the polish.
8. Move to the next section of the car.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid swirl marks by washing all the dirt off of the car first and by using a 100 percent cotton terry cloth towel to apply and remove the polish. The nap draws grit up into the towel instead of rubbing it into the finish.
• Wash your towels with liquid fabric softener--this will keep them fluffy for best results.
• Avoid using too much elbow grease on ridges and corners. Your car's paint is thinner in those spots.