Cleaning your car can sometimes be a tricky and time-consuming job, and it’s safe to say you might not always have the time to do it – but that doesn’t mean you can’t put your efforts into making sure your car is in tip-top condition. It may be worth investing in professional services every now and again to help keep on top of your car care regime.
There are a number of different services to choose from, notably car valeting and detailing. So, what exactly do these services include, and how do the two differ? Here we’ll explain in more detail, so that you can be sure you’re looking after your car’s appearance in the best possible way.
What is car valeting?
While car valeting is a professional service, it is something you can do yourself if you have the time. It goes beyond simply washing your car with a bucket and sponge, instead cleaning all elements of the car both inside and out with a much keener eye.
A full car valet might include washing and drying the exterior of the car, as well as interior vacuuming – not to mention carpet shampooing and cleaning the interior upholstery such as seats and dashboard. The windows will also typically be cleaned, and in most cases there will be a protective wax applied to the exterior of the car.
Benefits of car valeting
Car valeting is a great way to achieve a good-as-new look for your car, allowing you to maintain its exterior and interior appearance. Here are just some of the advantages of giving your car a proper valet, whether you choose to do it yourself or by a professional.
Restores your car’s appearance: Valeting your car can be a great way to ensure your vehicle looks as good as the day you bought it. From removing stains and odours on the interior, to dirt and debris on the exterior, a valet can make your car sparkle once again.
Essential for car maintenance: While keeping your car clean makes it look incredibly appealing, it’s particularly helpful for maintaining your vehicle’s longevity. A clean car can help to extend the life of the vehicle’s paintwork, which can be damaged more quickly if things like tree sap, bird droppings, dirt and debris aren’t removed.
Safer driving: A clean car is a much safer car, with windows and headlights free from dirt or marks – enhancing your visibility and reducing distractions behind the wheel.
Better fuel economy: Dirt on your car can actually increase the drag, which makes your engine work harder. It might sound like a stretch, but by carrying out a full valet on your car, you could ensure a more efficient MPG on the road.
Professional service: If you do choose to take your car to a professional valeting service, you can bet that they will reach every nook and corner of your vehicle – including the places you usually forget.
What is car detailing?
Car detailing typically focuses on cleaning and restoration of the interior and exterior, with some extras when it comes to making your car look pristine once again. In many cases, car detailing includes more emphasis on the exterior and paintwork, ensuring it is not only clean but also restoring shine and removing marks and other defects.
A car detailing service not only enhances the appearance of your car but can also include minor cosmetic repairs to things like the floormats, seats, wheels and paintwork.
Benefits of car detailing
Car detailing is an essential service if you’re looking to not only ensure your vehicle is spotless, but also if you have some restorations and patch-ups that need carrying out on upholstery or the exterior. Some of the benefits of a car detailing service include the following:
Protect your vehicle’s paintwork: Car detailing goes that extra mile, not only removing dirt and debris but also taking the time to remove marks and blemishes. Many professionals will polish the car’s exterior and apply a wax treatment for future protection.
Restore wear and tear: If you have tears or other such marks on the upholstery of your car, a car detailing service could help to reinstate a good-as-new condition. Remember – car detailing does not include body repairs.
Retain your car’s resale value: If you’re hoping to sell your car on, undergoing car detailing can help you to ensure you get the best possible price when it comes to that. Whether it’s buffing out imperfections in the paint or fixing a stained seat, car detailing will make sure your car looks its best.
What are the differences between valeting and detailing?
The key difference between valeting and detailing is the additional particulars that a car detail service can offer. While car valeting will wash and dry your car to a high standard, car detailing can also provide minor cosmetic repairs to bring your car back to life.
Valeting focuses on removing dirt from the surfaces of your car, while you could say detailing goes a little deeper and corrects any defects under that surface.
The cost of both services can differ greatly, depending on the company you use and the type of car you have – typically a larger car will cost more. However, you can probably expect a car detailing service to be more expensive, as it carries out more than just washing the interior and exterior.
If you take pride in your vehicle, you might want to consider a valet once a month or so. It can take a few hours, which is something you should bear in mind with the frequency of booking in such a service. It also depends on how often you plan to wash your car yourself, as you may not need a full valet quite so regularly if you wash your car yourself in between.
On the other hand, car detailing might only need to be carried out twice or three times a year. This can depend on how often you use your vehicle and how much you look after its condition yourself. Typically you might only book in for a car detail service if you’ve started to notice excessive dirt or wear and tear.
So, whether you’re a dab hand at cleaning your own car or you’d rather have a professional take a look, both car valeting and car detailing have a place in your car care regime. Find out more about our top tips for looking after the interior of your car, or exterior paintwork.
