Drying Your Car After Washing – Why It’s Essential

Drying your car after washing is crucial to prevent unsightly water spots and mineral deposits. Even if the water at your local self-service wash is claimed to be free of minerals, it’s rarely 100% pure. And even if it were, water itself attracts dust, making the drying step essential for a flawless finish.

There are several methods to dry your car:

1. Air-drying with a blower
2. Using a microfiber drying towel
3. A combination of both

Air-Drying with a Blower

Using a blower is the optimal method, as in all aspects of car care, minimizing physical contact with the paint reduces the risk of scratches. However, air-drying has its downsides—while it removes water, it won’t eliminate the water minerals left behind, which can create stubborn spots on the clear coat.

Drying with a Microfiber Towel

Using a high-quality microfiber drying towel prevents water spots and mineral deposits, but as mentioned earlier, the goal is to minimize contact with the paint. Dragging a towel over the surface always carries the risk of micro-scratches. No matter how thoroughly you've washed your car, there will always be some dust or debris that lands on the paint afterward.

The Role of a Drying Aid

This is where a drying aid comes into play. Drying aids typically come in the form of quick detailers or ceramic-infused quick detailers. Their primary function is to lubricate the surface during the drying process, creating a protective layer between the microfiber towel and the paint. This lubrication minimizes friction, reducing the risk of scratches if any residual dirt comes into contact with the towel.

At Getails, we recommend Hercules as a drying aid. It’s water-based, provides excellent lubrication, and leaves behind a protective layer for added durability.

The Best Drying Method – A Combination of Both

For the safest and most effective drying process, start by air-drying the car to remove the majority of the water. Then, use a microfiber towel with a drying aid to remove any remaining water and prevent mineral deposits from settling into the clear coat. This method ensures minimal contact while also adding protection to the paint when applying Hercules.

How to Apply a Drying Aid:

1. Wash the car
2. Spray Hercules onto a clean microfiber drying towel
3. Gently dry the car
4. Enjoy the shine!

By following these steps, you’ll achieve a spotless, streak-free and hopefully scratch and marr free finish.