Drying a car after washing it is often overlooked by many drivers, however, it’s an important step in the process. If you want to keep your car looking shiny and spotless for years to come, then it’s important to take the time to dry your car properly. Here are four different car drying methods that won’t destroy your car’s paint in the process.

Method 1: Use a microfiber cloth or towel

Believe it or not, there are some drivers that wash their car with dish soap and dry it with a beach towel. That’s honestly the worst way to ever wash a car as the dish soap will cut through the car’s finish and a beach towel can scratch it. Instead, use a microfiber cloth or towel; but it’s important to use the right one.

While perusing the shelves at your local auto parts store, you’re bound to find a number of different drying towels, but just know they’re not all created equal. For drying, you’ll want to find a microfiber cloth made from nylon or polyester, especially if it has a tufted weave to assist with drying.

When drying the car with a microfiber, do not fold the microfiber towel and dry it in a circular motion. According to Chemical Guys, you should open the drying towel completely and wipe the car down in long strokes going in one direction. Remember to flip the cloth regularly and ensure that it does not touch the ground.

Method 2: Use a car dryer

Another way to dry your car is to use a car dryer. No, not a leaf blower or pet dryer, but an actual dryer that’s meant for cars. The beauty of using a car dryer is that you can dry all of the crevices in the car and get the job quickly without ever touching it. There are plenty of corded models in the market. However, if you can find a handheld or cordless one that could be better as they offer more freedom to move around the car.

Method 3: Use a chamois

A chamois, also known as a “shammy,” is a rubber or leather material that acts just like the drying microfiber cloth mentioned before. All you need to do is wipe the car in one direction and wring it out occasionally during the process. Best of all, you only need one for the job and you can even use it on multiple cars. There are plenty of different chamois options online and at your local auto parts store, so finding one that’s the right size for your car should be easy.

Method 4: Use a water blade

This last method is somewhat controversial as a water blade is not as soft as non-abrasive as the other three methods. What is a water blade? It’s a squeegee-like tool that’s made of silicone and you can use it to wipe away the water on the car. When using a water blade, it’s recommended to wipe in an up-and-down or back-and-forth pattern for best results. Just like the other drying tools, you can find a water blade online or at an auto parts store.

Drying your car properly is easy

By using one of these four methods, you’ll be able to dry your car quickly and easily without ruining the car’s paint. They’re all relatively cheap as well, so there’s no reason that you should be using a beach towel to dry your car instead. Do it right every time and you’ll be able to enjoy your car’s shiny paint finish for many years.