Car chemicals

Wash in two stages: snow foam applied with a pressure washer loosens the dirt, then car shampoo and a wash mitt remove the rest. Wash more often in winter, as road salt attacks the paint and underbody. Dry with a microfibre towel to avoid water spots.

Wax and quick detailer leave a protective layer on the paint that water and dirt run off more easily. A quick detailer goes on a clean surface in minutes, while hard wax lasts longer but takes more work. Polishing compound removes dullness and fine scratches, and stone chips are covered with touch-up paint matched to the car's paint code.

Inside, use a dashboard care product on plastic and the dashboard, an upholstery cleaner on fabric and a leather care product on leather. Clean the glass separately with a glass cleaner to avoid streaks. In winter, keep a de-icer for the windows and a lock de-icer in the car.