Myth: Dish Soap is a Great Car Wash Substitute
Because dish soap is great at cutting through grease on a lasagna pan, many people assume it’s perfect for a dirty car. It definitely gets the dirt off, but it’s actually too effective. Dish soap is formulated to strip away fats and oils, which means it will instantly remove any protective wax or sealant you’ve applied to your paint. Over time, this leaves your clear coat defenseless against UV rays and bird droppings.
Automotive soaps are pH-balanced and contain lubricants to help dirt slide off without scratching the surface. Given how expensive it is to fix faded or peeling paint, saving five dollars by using kitchen soap is a poor trade-off. Stick to products designed for cars to keep your finish shiny and protected.
