VINYL WRAPS are not meant to be installed and forgotten. Like the rest of your vehicle, your vinyl wrap requires regular cleaning and maintenance. For longer-lasting, vibrant colour, wash your wrap on a regular basis and keep your vehicle away from possible pollutants.
Here are answers to some common questions customers have about cleaning vehicle wraps.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WASH MY VEHICLE WRAP?
Wash your wrap once a week or more often if your vehicle is exposed to a lot of dirt or pollutants. I know this sounds like a pain in the a$$ but you should hand wash it the old fashion way by using a bucket, liquid soap, and a micro-fibre car wash glove. Rinse vehicle with clear water after washing. Minimize water spotting by using a silicone squeegee or chamois to remove water. Dry with a clean micro-fibre cloth.
CAN I TAKE MY WRAPPED VEHICLE INTO A WAND CAR WASH?
You can bring your wrapped vehicle to a wand brushless car wash, though hand washing is safer and more thorough. Maintain a minimum of 12 inch distance from edges and surface while spraying. Never take your vehicle through automatic car washes since this method is too rough on the film, degrades it, and causes peeling and lifted edges. Hi pressure wand wash spray and no brushes, is safe for most wraps.
HOW DO I CLEAN BIRD DROPPINGS, INSECTS, TREE SAP OR OTHER DIFFICULT STAINS?
Clean bird droppings and difficult stains immediately. Letting them sit for too long will make them harder to remove and may permanently stain the wrap. Soak the affected area for a few minutes with warm soapy water to loosen the contaminants. Rinse completely and dry with a micro-fibre cloth. For stubborn contaminants, use 70% isopropyl alcohol. Always test on a small area that’s not easily noticeable to ensure the cleaner will not harm the wrap. Do not use solvents or oil based cleaning products! I like to use Spay Nine minutes before I wash to loosen heavy bug smudge. However, if you use Spray Nine, don’t leave on the vinyl surface too long. Leave for 5 minutes max and then pressure wash them off using the 12 inch distance method. Test a small area first though.
WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT GAS OR FUEL SPILLS?
Wipe off fuel spills immediately, then hand wash the affected area or use 70% isopropyl alcohol with micro-fibre cloth. Letting the spill stay the wrap too long will degrade the vinyl. However, a quick wipe with a wet paper towel at a gas station will clean the fuel affected area decently enough.
CAN I PARK MY VEHICLE OUTDOORS FOR LONG PERIODS?
Excessive amounts of time under the sun or other outdoor elements (rain, smog, debris, and road pollutants from passing cars) can degrade the wrap on the roof, trunk lid and hood. These horizontal areas are a magnet for pollutants, which are intensified by UV ray exposure. Try your best to park your car in a garage or under a canopy or shelter. If you must park it outside for prolonged periods, look for shady parking areas.
WHAT PRODUCTS SHOULD I AVOID WHEN CLEANING MY WRAP?
Never, EVER use any of the following cleaning products on your wrap
- Solvents
- Oil-based cleaners
- Kitchen & Bathroom Cleaners
- Oven cleaner
- Orange Oil
- Engine Degreaser
Highlights
Following these simple steps will keep your wrap looking great. As a reminder, simply go to a HomeDepot, Canadian Tire, or Walmart and pick up a pack of micro-fibre cloths and wash glove, car sponge, liquid car wash soap, a bottle of 70% isopropyl alcohol, and Spray Nine. Keep them in your vehicle and use them whenever needed. Most of these outlets will have a wash kit that would cost around $30 bucks. Well worth it!
KingSkinz