Drivers told ‘not to wash cars’ at one specific time this weekend

As the UK basks in warmer weather, many motorists are itching to wash their car and are searching online for the best time to do it.

However, you don’t need to wonder anymore as the experts at BigWantsYourCar.com have shared their guidance on the optimal time to clean your car in the heat. They’ve also issued a timely warning to steer clear of car washes during peak sunshine hours.

The car specialists caution against cleaning your motor in the scorching midday sun – typically from 11am to 3pm according to Met Office stats – as it could inflict serious harm on your vehicle’s finish.

BigWantsYourCar.com’s team has sounded the alarm, advising that washing your vehicle when the sun is at its hottest can wreak havoc on the paintwork. They recommend opting for the cooler early morning or late afternoon to get your car gleaming without the risk of damage.

“Washing your car at the wrong time of day can lead to streaking, watermarks and even damage to the finish,” warned a BigWantsYourCar.com spokesperson. “In strong sunlight, water and car shampoo dry too quickly, often before you’ve had the chance to rinse them away properly – which can leave unsightly marks on the bodywork.”

During the hours of 11am to 3pm, UV levels and surface temperatures soar, making this period the worst time to wash your car. The intense heat speeds up water evaporation, hampers the effectiveness of cleaning products, and can even cause dirt to bake onto the car’s exterior.

“It may seem like a good idea to wash your car while the sun is out,” the spokesperson continued, “but intense heat actually works against you. Cleaning products can dry too fast and cause smears, while rapid evaporation makes it harder to rinse away dirt properly.”

Motorists are now being advised to opt for cooler times for their car washes – ideally before 10am or after 5pm – to avoid the harsh midday sun and ensure a more effective clean.

However, experts have also issued a warning about the pitfalls of washing vehicles after sunset, citing visibility issues and moisture-related problems.

The specialists caution: “Avoid washing after dark. You can’t see dirt clearly, and it becomes harder to dry the vehicle properly.”

They also state that residual moisture left overnight can “encourage corrosion or attract insects, which often stick to damp surfaces”.

Optimal conditions for car cleaning this summer

For those looking to spruce up their motors this summer, experts recommend steering clear of direct sunlight even outside the hottest hours. Shaded spots or areas with partial cover, such as under trees or an overhang, are perfect for thorough car care.

“If you can, always wash your car in the shade,” the spokesperson advises. “Sunlight accelerates drying, which ruins the cleaning process. Whether you’re using shampoo, polish or wax; you need enough time to work the product before it dries out. That’s only possible if the surface stays cool.”

Ideal locations are indoor spaces with ample ventilation and lighting, but for the majority, a shaded driveway or garden spot will do just fine.

As we’re expecting high temperatures in the upcoming weeks, experts are urging motorists to strategically plan their car washes to prevent futile exertion – and to shield their paintwork from avoidable harm.