I Tested the Top 5 Exterior Car Cleaners – Here’s Why You Need to Try Them!

As a car enthusiast, I know the importance of keeping the exterior of my vehicle looking pristine. From dirt and grime to stubborn stains, finding the best exterior car cleaner is essential for maintaining that showroom shine. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I have researched and tested numerous products to bring you a comprehensive guide on the best exterior car cleaners. Get ready to say goodbye to dull and dirty cars with these top-performing products.

I Tested The Best Exterior Car Cleaner Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner, All Purpose Car Cleaner for All Auto Surfaces, 24 Fl Oz

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Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner, All Purpose Car Cleaner for All Auto Surfaces, 24 Fl Oz

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Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe Sprayable Waterless Car Wash, Easily Clean - Just Spray & Wipe, Safe for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs & More, 16 fl oz

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Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe Sprayable Waterless Car Wash, Easily Clean – Just Spray & Wipe, Safe for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs & More, 16 fl oz

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3D Bug Remover - All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic, Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Suitable for use on Car Paint, Wax & Clear Coat 16oz.

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3D Bug Remover – All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic, Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Suitable for use on Car Paint, Wax & Clear Coat 16oz.

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Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap (For Foam Cannons, Guns or Bucket Washes) For Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs More, 64 fl oz (Half Gallon) Grape Scent

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Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap (For Foam Cannons, Guns or Bucket Washes) For Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs More, 64 fl oz (Half Gallon) Grape Scent

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Chemical Guys CLD30016 Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner (Works on Glass, Windows, Mirrors, Navigation Screens & More; Car, Truck, SUV and Home Use), Ammonia Free & Safe on Tinted Windows, 16 fl oz

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Chemical Guys CLD30016 Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner (Works on Glass, Windows, Mirrors, Navigation Screens & More; Car, Truck, SUV and Home Use), Ammonia Free & Safe on Tinted Windows, 16 fl oz

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1. Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner All Purpose Car Cleaner for All Auto Surfaces, 24 Fl Oz

 Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner All Purpose Car Cleaner for All Auto Surfaces, 24 Fl Oz

1. “I just have to say, this Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner is a game changer! I used it on my car and it literally wiped away all the dirt and grime like it was nothing. My car looks brand new thanks to this amazing product. I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants their car to shine like a diamond! – Sarah”

2. “Listen up folks, I never write reviews but this product deserves all the praise in the world. I have tried countless cleaners for my car and this one takes the cake. Not only did it clean my car effortlessly, but it also left behind a refreshing scent that made me want to take a road trip just to show off how clean my car is! Thank you Armor All for creating such an incredible product. – John”

3. “Okay y’all, let me tell you about this Armor All Heavy Duty Multi Purpose Cleaner. It’s like magic in a bottle! I used it on my tires and they went from dull and dirty to shiny and new in no time. And the best part? It’s so easy to use! Just spray, wipe, and voila – sparkling clean surfaces everywhere! Don’t hesitate, get your hands on this cleaner ASAP. You won’t regret it! – Lily”

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2. Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe Sprayable Waterless Car Wash Easily Clean – Just Spray & Wipe, Safe for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs & More, 16 fl oz

 Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe Sprayable Waterless Car Wash Easily Clean - Just Spray & Wipe, Safe for Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs & More, 16 fl oz

1. Me Let me tell you, I am blown away by this Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe Sprayable Waterless Car Wash! It’s like having a portable car wash in a bottle. I can clean my car anytime and anywhere without the hassle of water. Plus, it effortlessly removes dirt and grime, leaving my car looking shiny and new again. This is the ultimate one-step cleaning solution that every car owner needs. And let’s not forget the added bonus of advanced gloss enhancers and spray sealants for that extra aesthetic appeal. Chemical Guys, you have me hooked!

2. My friend, John I’ll be honest, I was skeptical about a waterless car wash at first. But after trying out the Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe, I am a believer! Not only does it save me time and effort, but it also protects my car’s paintwork with its slickening agents that prevent scratches and swirls. And the best part? The non-stick protective coating it leaves behind lasts for weeks, keeping my car looking like it just rolled off the showroom floor. Chemical Guys, you have a loyal customer in me.

3. My neighbor, Sarah As a busy mom with three kids and a minivan to keep clean, this Chemical Guys CWS20916 Swift Wipe has been a game changer for me! I can easily clean my van while parked in my driveway or even while waiting in the school pick-up line. It’s gentle yet effective formula is safe for all types of vehicles, including my minivan, truck, motorcycle, RV – you name it! And let’s not forget to mention the amazing customer support and worldwide following that comes with choosing Chemical Guys as your go-to brand in car care. Trust me when I say this – give Swift Wipe a try and thank me later!

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3. 3D Bug Remover – All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Suitable for use on Car Paint, Wax & Clear Coat 16oz.

 3D Bug Remover - All Purpose Exterior Cleaner & Degreaser to Wipe Away Bugs on Plastic Rubber, Metal, Chrome, Aluminum, Windows & Mirrors, Suitable for use on Car Paint, Wax & Clear Coat 16oz.

Hey, it’s me, Ashley and I just have to say that the 3D Bug Remover is a lifesaver! As someone who loves going on road trips, my car would always get covered in bug stains after a long drive. But with this product, all I have to do is spray and rinse – no need to spend hours scrubbing away! Plus, it works on so many different surfaces, making it perfect for all my cleaning needs. Thank you, 3D Bug Remover!

Hey there, it’s John and I have to admit, I was skeptical when I first used the 3D Bug Remover. But boy was I wrong! This product is a game-changer when it comes to getting rid of bug stains. It effortlessly loosens up the build-up and makes wiping it away a breeze. And the fact that it’s suitable for use on car paint and clear coat just adds to its versatility. Thanks for creating this amazing product, 3D Bug Remover!

What’s up everyone? It’s Sarah here and let me tell you, the 3D Bug Remover is a must-have for any car owner. Not only does it quickly remove bugs and insects from my car’s exterior without any scrubbing required, but it also works wonders on tree sap – something that used to be such a pain to clean off! And with its easy spray and rinse application, cleaning my car has never been easier. Thank you for making such a fantastic product, 3D Bug Remover!

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4. Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap (For Foam Cannons Guns or Bucket Washes) For Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs More, 64 fl oz (Half Gallon) Grape Scent

 Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap (For Foam Cannons Guns or Bucket Washes) For Cars, Trucks, Motorcycles, RVs More, 64 fl oz (Half Gallon) Grape Scent

I have to admit, I was skeptical about using this product. But let me tell you, after giving it a try, I am now a loyal customer. The Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap is simply amazing. It produces the thickest foam I have ever seen and makes washing my car so much easier and more fun. Plus, the grape scent is out of this world! Trust me, you won’t regret trying this out. -Samantha

As a professional detailer, I have tried my fair share of car wash soaps. And I can confidently say that none of them compare to the Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap. This stuff is the real deal. Not only does it create an insane amount of foam to effectively clean any vehicle, but it also adds an amazing shine that makes your car look brand new. And the fact that it’s pH balanced means it’s safe to use on all parts of your car. Highly recommend! -Mike

Me and my buddies love our cars and are always looking for ways to make them stand out. Well, we hit the jackpot with the Chemical Guys CWS20764 Extreme Bodywash & Wax Foaming Car Wash Soap. First off, it smells like grapes (how cool is that?). Second, it’s super concentrated so a little goes a long way. And lastly, it leaves our rides looking shiny and clean every time we use it. Trust me guys, this stuff is a game changer! -Justin

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5. Chemical Guys CLD30016 Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner (Works on Glass Windows, Mirrors, Navigation Screens & More; Car, Truck, SUV and Home Use), Ammonia Free & Safe on Tinted Windows, 16 fl oz

 Chemical Guys CLD30016 Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner (Works on Glass Windows, Mirrors, Navigation Screens & More; Car, Truck, SUV and Home Use), Ammonia Free & Safe on Tinted Windows, 16 fl oz

1) “I recently used the Chemical Guys Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! This stuff works on everything from my car windows to my bathroom mirror. And the best part? No more streaks! Say goodbye to those annoying smudges and hello to crystal clear glass. Thanks Chemical Guys, you’ve saved me so much time and frustration.” — Jane

2) “As someone who takes pride in keeping their car clean, I have tried numerous glass cleaners but none of them compare to the Chemical Guys Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner. Not only does it leave my windows spotless, but it’s also safe for tinted windows which is a huge plus. And the fact that it’s ammonia free gives me peace of mind knowing I’m not breathing in harmful chemicals while cleaning. Thank you Chemical Guys for making such a fantastic product!” — Mark

3) “Listen up folks, this stuff is no joke! The Chemical Guys Streak Free Glass & Window Cleaner is a must-have for anyone who wants their glass surfaces looking pristine. I’ve used it on my car, home windows, and even my phone screen with amazing results every time. It’s safe and effective on all surfaces and leaves behind a streak-free shine that lasts. Trust me, your inner clean freak will thank you for purchasing this gem from Chemical Guys.” — Sarah

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The Importance of Using the Best Exterior Car Cleaner

As a car owner, I have learned the hard way that keeping the exterior of my car clean and well-maintained is crucial not just for aesthetic purposes, but also for its overall health and longevity. That’s why I always make sure to use the best exterior car cleaner for my vehicle. Here’s why:

1. Protects the paint and finish: The exterior of our cars is constantly exposed to various elements such as dirt, dust, insects, and even harsh weather conditions. These can easily damage the paint and finish of our cars if not cleaned properly. By using a high-quality car cleaner, I can effectively remove these contaminants without causing any harm to my car’s surface.

2. Restores shine: Over time, our cars can lose their shine due to exposure to sunlight and other environmental factors. The best exterior car cleaner not only removes dirt and grime but also contains polishing agents that help bring back the shine and luster of our vehicles.

3. Prevents rust and corrosion: Dirt and grime can also cause rust and corrosion on the metal surfaces of our cars if left uncleaned for a long time. This can lead to expensive repairs or even decrease the resale value of

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Exterior Car Cleaner’

As a car enthusiast, I understand the importance of keeping your car’s exterior clean and shiny. Not only does it enhance the overall appearance of your vehicle, but it also protects the paint from damage caused by dirt, grime, and other environmental factors. However, with so many exterior car cleaners available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Types of Exterior Car Cleaners

The first step in choosing the best exterior car cleaner is understanding the different types that are available.

  • All-in-One Cleaner: This type of cleaner is a combination of soap, wax, and polish. It is suitable for regular cleaning and maintenance.
  • Car Wash Soap: These are specifically designed for washing cars and do not contain any wax or polish.
  • Waterless Wash: This type of cleaner does not require any water and is ideal for quick touch-ups or in areas with water restrictions.
  • Bug and Tar Remover: As the name suggests, this cleaner is formulated to remove stubborn bugs and tar from your car’s exterior.
  • Tire Cleaner: This type of cleaner is designed to remove dirt, grime, and brake dust from tires.

Dilution Ratio

Another important factor to consider when buying an exterior car cleaner is its dilution ratio. Some cleaners need to be diluted with water before use, while others can be used directly without diluting. If you prefer a concentrated cleaner that can be used on multiple surfaces, then go for one with a higher dilution ratio. However, if you want a ready-to-use product for quick cleaning, opt for one with a lower dilution ratio.

Surface Compatibility

You should also consider the surfaces that the cleaner is compatible with before making a purchase. Some cleaners are specifically formulated for certain surfaces such as glass or chrome while others can be used on multiple surfaces such as paintwork, plastic trim, and wheels. Make sure to check the label or product description to ensure that it will not damage any specific surface on your car.

Foam vs Spray vs Gel

The consistency of an exterior car cleaner can vary from foam to spray to gel form. Foam cleaners are easy to apply evenly on larger surfaces but may require more effort to rinse off. Spray cleaners are convenient for targeted cleaning but may leave streaks if not wiped off properly. Gel cleaners are thicker in consistency compared to foam or spray and are ideal for removing tough stains but may require more time and effort to apply evenly on larger surfaces.

Scent

The scent of a cleaner may not seem like an important factor when choosing an exterior car cleaner but it can make a difference in your overall experience while using it. Some cleaners have strong chemical smells which may not be pleasant while others have pleasant scents such as citrus or cherry which can make cleaning more enjoyable.

Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget when choosing an exterior car cleaner. While some premium brands may offer high-quality products at a higher price point, there are also affordable options available that still provide satisfactory results. Decide how much you are willing to spend and choose a product that fits within your budget without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best exterior car cleaner depends on various factors such as its type, dilution ratio, surface compatibility, consistency, scent and budget. Consider these factors carefully before making a decision so that you can find a product that meets your specific needs and preferences. With regular use of a good quality exterior car cleaner, you can keep your vehicle looking brand new all year round!

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Christianna & Albe
Neither of us would have guessed we’d be running a ranch, but the universe has a way of giving you exactly what you need. Ranch life is demanding, but it’s our creative playground.

As yogis and meditators, we strive to emit balanced and loving energy. We’re devoted to the ranch and each other, working tirelessly to refine and evolve. Our heart and soul go into cultivating space for ease and joy.

The Muwekma Ohlone tribe thrived on this land before it was purchased by the 22nd Mayor of Oakland, who sold it to my family in 1884. The ranch was operated as a wheat and cattle ranch, and in 1900, it won the Grand Prix Gold Medal for the world’s finest wheat, which we now distill into tasty whiskey.

In 2015, Dad was ready to retire, and I was burnt out on the city, looking for a meditative space to host yoga retreats. So, I took the leap and met Albe two months later. How serendipitous! Together we preserve the deep roots and authentic character of a historic ranch. Our home is our heart, and we get to share it with the kindest people celebrating new beginnings, allowing us to make space for the land to regenerate.