The Do’s And Dont’s Of Ceramic Aftercare.

So, you’ve taken the leap and had your car ceramic coated, awesome move! Whether you went with a professional job or a high quality DIY kit, your paint is now protected with one of the best solutions out there. But here’s the thing: the coating isn’t bulletproof, and how you care for it plays a huge role in how long it lasts and how well it performs.

To help you get the most out of your investment, here are the do’s and don’ts of ceramic aftercare plus everything you need to know to keep that fresh coated shine looking flawless.

The Do’s

1. Do Wait Before Washing

Let your ceramic coating cure for at least 7 days after application before washing. This gives it time to bond fully to the paint.

2. Do Use a pH Neutral Car Shampoo

Regular washing is still necessary. Use a pH neutral shampoo designed for ceramic coatings. This helps preserve the coating without stripping its protective layer.

3. Do Wash Every 2–3 Weeks

Even though your car stays cleaner longer, dirt and contaminants still build up. Keep up with washes to prevent buildup and maintain that hydrophobic effect.

4. Do Use the Two Bucket Method

Minimize the chance of swirl marks by using one bucket for clean soapy water and another for rinsing your wash mitt. Always wash top down to avoid dragging dirt across the surface.

5. Do Dry With a Microfiber Towel

After washing, use a soft, plush microfiber towel or a touchless car dryer to prevent water spots and streaks.

6. Do Spot Clean Contaminants Quickly

Bird droppings, tree sap, bug splatter? Clean them off as soon as possible with a gentle detailer to prevent etching, even with a coating, those can cause damage if left too long.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Use Harsh Soaps or Cleaners

Avoid dish soap, degreasers, or acidic cleaners. These can break down your coating or reduce its lifespan dramatically.

2. Don’t Go Through Brush Car Washes

Automatic car washes with spinning brushes can scratch your coating and diminish its performance. Stick with touchless washes or hand washing.

3. Don’t Wax Over the Coating

Ceramic coating replaces the need for wax. Applying traditional waxes can interfere with the coating's properties and reduce its effectiveness.

4. Don’t Use Dirty Wash Mitts or Towels

Always use clean, soft microfiber towels and wash mitts. Dirty tools can scratch the coating or leave behind contaminants.

5. Don’t Let Water Spots Sit

Even with a hydrophobic surface, hard water can leave mineral spots if left to dry naturally. Always dry your car after washing or rain.

6. Don’t Skip Routine Maintenance

Just because it’s coated doesn’t mean it’s maintenance free. Skipping regular washes can cause the coating to degrade faster than expected.

Final Thoughts

Ceramic coatings are an amazing upgrade for your car’s protection and appearance, but only if you take care of them the right way. By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you’ll ensure your coating continues to perform, shine, and protect for years to come.