How to Wash your Car using a Foam Cannon | Car Detailing and Car Wash Tips and Tricks | Foam Cannon

Ive received a lot of questions on my past videos regarding car wash soaps and foam cannons. Many of you want to know what my process is for washing a car using a foam cannon. So here it is!!! I walk you through a maintenance car wash on a beautiful Aston Martin and show you step by step. ENJOY!!!
See the items I use and join the mailing list at: www.DTLRsupply.com
✅ Step 1 - SET UP
Its important to get yourself set up before starting so you are searching for your tools and chemicals. Being prepared for your car wash right up front allows you to be more efficient and get it done faster!
PRODUCTS USED:
Adams Mega Foam - amzn.to/3zawYmO
Pressure Washer - amzn.to/3kdNdcy
Quick Connects for Pressure Washer Set Up - amzn.to/2WhGo0Z
✅ 1.1mm orifice for Foam Cannon - amzn.to/3i2IMAK50' UberFlex Hose - amzn.to/3sEfH2S
50' Flexzilla Hose (Same as Uberflex) - amzn.to/2XCey0b
Stubby Pressure Washer Wand - amzn.to/383JLLJ
Foam Cannon - amzn.to/3sFVzND
Microfiber Towels - amzn.to/3mppI2Y
Wheel Brush #1 - amzn.to/355nl90
Wheel Brush #2 - amzn.to/3msBlGb
Body Brush - amzn.to/3msBlGb
Wheel Cleaner by P&S - amzn.to/2XIrX6Z
Wheel Cleaner by MALCO - www.mycarglo.com/store/p290/M...
Ceramic Detail Spray (SI02) - amzn.to/3sL0n4v
Tire Dressing - amzn.to/2XOiETd
Application Pads - amzn.to/3y6GfLm
**These are affiliate links to the products. I make a small commission on anything purchased from these links. Thank so much fr the support!
✅ Step 2 - RINSE
An Initial rinse of the vehicle is important to remove any loose and larger debris from the paint. This allows the foam application to work better on the areas that are stuck on to the vehicles paint.
✅ Step 3 - WHEEL CLEANING
Once the vehicle is rinsed down, I like to move my attention the wheels and properly clean the surface as well as the barrel of the wheel. Using proper products ad brushes to agitate the dirt and brake dust and then rinse it away.
✅ Step 4 - FOAM BATH with FOAM CANNON
Using my foam cannon, i cover the vehicle with a ph neutral soap (so no wax will be removed) and let it dwell on the paint for about 1 minute in most cases. This allows the soap to break down the dirt and contamination on the paint and also adds a layer lubrication to prevent any wash marks, scratches, or marring on your cars paint.
✅ Step 5 - CONTACT WASH
Using Multiple Microfiber Towels in my bucket, I wash the car section by section. As the Towel gets dirty, i toss it to the side and move on to a new clean microfiber from my bucket. This prevents any contamination from being introduced in to the bucket of clean soapy water.
✅ Step 6 - RINSE
Its time for the second rinse to wash away all the foam, soap, and dirt!
✅ Step 7 - DRY THE VEHICLE
Using a leaf blower, I blow of the bulk of the water. I also focus in on the tight areas that are know to cause drips like the mirrors, door handles, and any other tight spots. Once the bulk of the water is removed, I the dry the rest of the vehicle using a microfiber towel and ceramic detail spray!
✅ Step 8 - CLEAN WINDOWS
The secret to my streak free windows in nothing more than clean and dry microfiber towels and water!
✅ Step 9 - FINAL WIPE DOWN AND INSPECTION
Using the Ceramic Detail Spray and a microfiber towel and go through the entire vehicle to fine tune and make sure its looking its best!
#CarWash #FoamCannon #HowToWashYourCar
Time Codes
0:00 - Intro to How to Wash your Car like a Pro
2:00 - Step 1 SET UP
3:04 - Step 2 RINSE
3:25 - Step 3 WHEELS
5:55 - Step 4 FOAM CANNON
6:25 - Step 5 CONTACT WASH
7:32 - Step 6 RINSE
8:03 - Step 7 DRY VEHICLE
10:01 - Step 8 WINDOWS
11:55 - Step 9 FINAL WIPE DOWN
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond my control, I cannot guarantee against improper use of the information I share in my videos. (IMJOSHV) assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not (IMJOSHV) or any business affiliated to (IMJOSHV).

[@rfchip9686]

Outstanding videos Josh! I have learned a lot and always look forward to washing my vehicles and try out something new I have learned.

[@KevinAClassA]

Great advice! Stay safe and blessed Kevin

[@tomlogan1531]

Great video, as always. I have pretty much bought every product you recommended. Thank you again.

[@joeforbes2434]

Excellent video and tips. The best that I’ve seen so far.

[@keithcee6378]

Just in time for dinner and a clip! Thanks for the great content homie! 🙏🏼

[@contidozack]

I got an Active pressure and the Uber flex thanks to you, Josh.

[@GSP-76]

Thank you for all your videos...it helped me choose the proper pressure washer hose, gun and orifice for my electric pressure washer. Keep up the great work!

[@leojohnwayne1422]

Same here thanks OG

[@brad265]

Never thought about using a leaf blower. Very smart

[@duanehundley]

I used to be a valet. After 4,000 rpm’s the vanquish sounds like nothing else. It’s one of the best sounding cars ever!

[@skypupx]

Great video and guidance. Car looks awesome !!

[@PerformanceComputing]

THANK YOU!

[@joevanseeters2873]

Good information about a basic maintenance wash using good washing techniques. I especially liked the comment on the window cleaning. Clean microfibers and water........ That's brilliant for a maintenance wash and probably all that is needed. The only time you would need a dedicated window cleaner would probably be if you had some gunk or oily substances on the window. Many times the wipers will pick up gunk and spread it across the windows over time using them in the rain. You'd probably need an actual window cleaner to get rid of that gunk build up. I like Angelwax Vision. That stuff cut's through just about anything. Finishes streak free too. Good stuff.

[@timgenz2849]

Phenomenal job

[@djabe1992]

Outstanding video brother 👏 👌

[@mobiledetailingjourney6817]

Solid as always!

[@SS-yw7vo]

You're a good man

[@davestewart9146]

Great process Josh, thanks for sharing 👍😁

[@imjoshv]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@stephanoutten3185]

Just Water !!! Water cleans 💯 Luv it brother no need for to much chemicals

[@GirlDad2321]

Love your content. Question: What pressure are you running? As well as, what size tip and orifice size for sprayer? Thank you so much for all your great information on your videos.

[@zigwil153]

Great video. As a side, if your contacting the car it's best to not go from the top to the bottom & vice versa with the same towel, etc. Clean horizontally, not vertically. Vehicles are almost always dirtier on the bottom than the hood, roof, etc. Don't want any potential micro scratching brought up. Clean water buckets are a must.

[@dyolf10]

Great vid josh once again, how would youndo the process for a bigger vehicle, like an SUV ? Any videos or one in the making ?

[@xprodigybasegod9274]

Well I’ve been doing my car wrong. I always Contact washed first then foam cannon! Then I saw a video on TikTok Simone m someone foam cannon first then contact wash the same way you did! Had me question myself and of course look up a video! Thanks!!

[@ddautodetailing]

Nicely done!

[@imjoshv]

Thanks!

[@JamesEdington]

Yesterday I used that ceramic detail spray on my new car. Wow! It’s incredible. I liked the results so much I used it on our 2015 Honda Odyssey and…wow! It’s like the ultimate detailer’s secret!

[@imjoshv]

That stuff is fantastic!!

[@tomplatz4318]

Josh great video.

[@CORZER0]

Love your videos, wish I found them sooner! What is the fiberglass tank in the corner to the left of the garage door as you're looking out from the inside? Is that a compressed air receiver tank?

[@ajwilliams9570]

Awesome tutorial mate - thanks from Melbourne 🇦🇺

[@imjoshv]

👍👍👍 thanks!!

[@Minnesota_Fire]

I absolutely love the content. You’re my favorite KZbin detailer. I’ve learned a lot from you and I appreciate it. I am curious, how do you tackle stuck on bugs and tar specks if foam and contact washing doesn’t get rid of them? Do you move to clay or is there a better way to get it off?

[@giorenaud9657]

Can you make a video on the ceramic finishing spray. How you apply it. Thanks again.

[@Drainage_Eli]

What type of pad did you use to put on the tire dressing at the end of the video?

[@staceyw5406]

Thanks for the simple steps. I will try this. Can you do a video cleaning a vehicle with a matte finish please 🙏

[@cal88usa]

I wash my car with the two bucket method. After seeing how you wash the car using towel, I will try this on my car. Thank you.

[@Thedoorman2000]

Thanks for your very informative videos. How long it's take you and how much we can ask for something like that to a client?

[@JFomo]

I use Seal n Shine on the windows to keep them beading water when it rains.

[@Dirtracing141]

Do one for interior process

[@retrofervor8543]

Thanks for the great vid. Can you do a step by step on a SUV and maybe one on leather seats? Thanks again

[@michealfreeman9454]

Josh, thanks for your videos. Do you ever use a microfiber wash mitt or only the towels ? How about on truck roof's which are hard to reach ?

[@joelcleare]

I like the one bucket method. I way over bought towels. I have like 25 extra towels like the ones you use.

[@jtam70]

I thought using a foam canon was all you need to do to wash a car. Spray the foam, rinse it off, and you are done. Thank you for the education. Subbed.

[@roanokejoe]

Another great video. What degree tip do you use on your pressure washer? Also, what leaf blower are you using?

[@massshah]

thanks for your video helps a lot just wondering if you can tell us how to clean cream leather for the car thanks again

[@linemancall3843]

Hi, I’m a new subscriber to your channel. I am learning a lot from your videos that I want to incorporate into taking care of my new truck and my travel trailer. I have products already for my trailer but I’m wondering, can you apply the ceramic spray to vehicles that have a regular clear coat or is there a better product for that? Also, I read that the ceramic spray can also be used in conjunction with a ceramic polish . Would you apply the polish first before using the spray or vise versa? Thank you for the time and information you put into your videos. Very helpful especially for people that never really did this for themselves… Using automated car washes.

[@ericfranke1637]

I'll check out that Technicians Choice. Have you tried Wizards Mist-N-Shine? Also really good stuff. One tip I never see mentioned is regarding product storage. Most people's garages are unconditioned. The hot summers and freezing winters have ruined some of my products, so I now keep them inside the house at room temperature.

[@jonfon3452]

Thanks Josh for your helpful videos i learn good information from you. I watch a lot of other sites too but I’m going to ask you this because I feel you’ll give me a straight up answer. I always been miffed at how long detailers let soap almost dry up on the vehicle while giving a demonstration video. When I use my foam cannon in the way you did and a lot of other do also (as the wash soap) I find that before I’m even done with half the car that the foam is drying up on the other half and that’s with a heavy Application of soap even in shade. Does this happen to you too. Thanks very much.

[@ZiggyWarren]

Enjoyed your video, could you list your product links...

[@eddybobby6211]

Great videos! Thank you... with the ceramic detail spray does it matter if the paint isn't ceramic when using a ceramic detail spray? Should one use a different detail spray? Or is the Technicians Choice TEC582 Ceramic Detail Spray good for all vehicles? Thanks again!

[@N2Film]

Great detail new subscriber

[@imjoshv]

Thanks

[@stojo007]

@IMJOSHV you’ve mentioned in previous videos, unless I’m mistaken, that you can dilute the si02 spray. What ratio do you use or am I mistaken and you use it at full strength?

[@iolacowgirl]

Damn that's a beautiful car

[@cebasmb8250]

Josh I'm happy to see you rinsing off the car first before any touching 👌🏽💥💯......I've seen some detailer start foam and start washing 🤔 not good ......keep the good work up Josh!!!! Great product from technician's choice 💥 my favorite go to spray wax 😮 same way I clean windows 😎 no chemicals

[@imjoshv]

Thanks 👍

[@user-ci2xg7rq5y]

I definitely don't rinse first. You're blasting grit into the paint at 1,000+ psi which is not what I want to do. I want any of that stuff to be encapsulated by the time I rinse. I do rinse after the initial foam and then foam again for the contact wash. Two different products.

[@motoman4782]

Hey, buddy, love your videos quick question period so on the ceramic detail. Can I use that on a vehicle that already has a traffic coating? Maybe?😊

[@bobbystefano]

great video! What do you charge for a car wash like the one in your video? Some videos I see you use an air blower to dry and others you're selling a twist loop? How do you make this decision? thanks!

[@joseyahuitl699]

I had a question man so now that I bought a foam cannon do I still need to use a shampoo and rinse bucket to my steps or can I just use the foam with the rinse bucket ? Thank you man love your videos

[@stutterbox36]

What did you use to shine the tires

[@Messi10billy]

Best ratio for big suv foam?

[@jagreddog]

I learned early in your videos and about my goto detail cermanic spray.Tech 582 is the shit.It can do many things well.I now recommend buying it in the largest size.Its that good.Also cant stress enuff atleast for me,get the better quality MF towels(whatever brand).No tags no edges,spend the money and just dont settle for the cheapest you can find.I prefer Adams towels but that just me.GJ Josh. I try support your channel when i can.Im sure this is out of your hands,shipping from CA to NC almost doubles my cost. Great video even if your a weekend warrior,i learned alot as usual.Thanks -- The combo of this channel and Pan are terrific.Honest opinions -how to and more.Ive learned to spend my money much efficently.Thanks

[@blakekylee8849]

I recommend sprayaway ammonia free glass cleaner you can get it at Walmart that’s why I use for my car at home and it’s works amazing

[@robertlafuente8088]

Do you wash your microfiber towels and reuse? Of so how?

[@RedHaloManiac95]

I have started using a microfiber sponge for the inside of the wheel, imo it’s a lot easier than the straight stick but some cars rotors are so big there’s no wheel clearance

[@jaysteezy_srt6896]

So is rinsing first necessary? Or can I go straight to foaming and then contact wash then rinsing 🤔

[@Mr5150guy]

Do you wash and re-use the wash cloths or is there concern of transferring contaminates? Also, does that ceramic based quick detailer make the cloths less absorbent for the next use or are they good after washing? Thanks!

[@TheJDB65]

Thx so much! One question what pressure is your pressure washer? I only have a 3200psi version and think it is too high so I use a bigger nozzle to reduce the force of the jet.

[@jayzhang14]

hi, do you usually use same kind of liquid for both prewash and regular wash when using the foam cannon?

[@freddyfred2595]

Can you use that ceramic sealant after ever car wash..I wash my car once a week maybe twice..just need something after I air dry exterior but at trehe same time don't wanna over coat the car.. any recommendation

[@gabelitell8632]

Just courious what pressure washer did you use

[@possiblepresent3724]

It’s very hard to find that Stubby Wand that you use, what’s a good backup that you can recommend?

[@truebluereef419]

Josh, what microfiber towels do you use for contact wash?

[@kbrowniiee]

Is it ok to use 2 different soaps when washing a vehicle, like a regular shampoo soap in foam cannon and like a wash and wax soap in bucket for contact wash as to not clog up foam cannon with wash and wax soap

[@tam340r5]

Hi it seems that you are using the same soap in the bucket and the foam gun,,,if so do we have to rinse the car after the foam canon or you leave it on and wash the car ? Thanks for your great videos Hello from Europe

[@Danny-xj5ts]

Great video Have you ever considered skipping the pre-rinsing process and going straight into foaming? I’m a detailer here in the South Bay and I’ll double foam cars. The first foam cannon has a little bit of APC on it. That helps breakdown the dirt then I rinse the car. The second time I from the car I go into my contact Wash but at that point the car is very clean

[@imjoshv]

absolutely. instead of apc i usually use a pre wash like auto foam from bilt hamber. foam, rinse, foam with a ph neutral soap and contact wash.

[@elmirbrdar1045]

I’m considering what way I can provide a 30 minute wash, not skipping on wheels and final phase of polish like in the video. I’m thinking say Gsf with some Gs pre wash, 2 min or so then rince. While car is wet go over with Gsf in the bucket and mitt. The point is do we need a second foam part at all? The prewash will get rid of most grime and also lubricate for the hand wash to take place. Why sud the car again

[@weildinggreen6504]

Hey Josh, is there a time of day that you prefer to start due to the sun? I would imagine you have to work fast in the afternoon. How do you work around having to polish in the sun?

[@brucestricklin3830]

Hey hello was wondering what’s your thoughts on the Bauer 2000

[@waynepile5084]

How do you feel about PPF? Im getting a 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, and am seriously considering ceramic coating and PPF. I would appreciate your input on this subject. Thank you.

[@cutthroat0075591]

The blower he is using is a Toro Ultra, Model 51619. There are 2 models, both are 260MPH, one is 340 CFM for $70, the other 405 CFM for $99. Harbor Freight has an identical blower, Portland 62337, 375 CFM for $47.

[@yo_marc]

The battery operated shop blowers are nice too. They have a rubber nozzle and you can run them in a stubby config. I have the Dewalt one, Milwaukee has one as well. I’m sure there are others.

[@herco2543]

What gsm and brand of micro fibre are you using in this car wash?

[@CharmleysChopShop]

I like tech choice g-max. But what does si02 stand for?

[@socialwill]

I would love to see a video on the clay bar process on how to do it and when this should be done?

[@stojo007]

The only time you’d do it is when there is contamination on the panel and a chemical decontamination would not lift it. Mechanical decontamination (clay bar/glove) will always require polishing after if not compounding.

[@RDB2020]

Feel your paint after you wash it with a general car wash soap no wax. If it feels rough you need to clay bar your paint. Take a clay bar and spray wax and Spray a small section of the vehicle paint with the spray wax and then take the clay bar and work in small sections. Kneed the clay frequently and then with your hand feel the paint it will start to feel super smooth. Take a clean micro fiber and gently wipe up the area you just worked. Keep this process up until you have made your way around the entire vehicle. Now your vehicle is ready for wax prep or ceramic prep.

[@grandepuce8]

How do I know if my car has a ceramic sealant? I'd like to use the SIO2 sealant or something appropriate for my car after my maintenance wash. I drive a 2017 Infinity Q50. Would it be appropriate for me to use the sealant you mention in this video? Thanks!

[@benjibumble]

Do you have a recommended microfiber for the contact wash? Trying to decide between 350 and 500 GSM edgeless from The Rag Company

[@diablo3871]

When you are doing all the rinsing with the pressure washer what tip do you have on it? Is the full psi tip too much pressure for a car?

[@pauldeloney296]

Can you put a ceramic detailer on without a wax?

[@DerekRasina]

I love the videos. Why do I see so many detailers rinse the foam wash off then go into the 2 bucket method? Seems like a waste since you have the lubricating foam on the car already and you can't replicate that with a bucket. Thanks again!

[@motoman4782]

So is it safe to use the Chemical guys mister pink foam so on a ceramic coated vehicle

[@xcodstur926]

Are the microfibre clothes you use to apply soap to the car safe to use on a ceramic coated car?

[@rodr.j5513]

Microfiber towels are safe to use to wash ?

[@hotsuacey7189]

Do you dilute the detail spray and if so, how much. 9:00

[@AhDrew001]

What did you use to wipe the door gaps? The door and the gap aroudn the door is generally more dirty than the body of my car.

[@OhDannyBoy2k]

Do you use the same ~300 gsm microfiber towels for your contact wash? Or something a little more plush? Done a few maintenance washes with a mitt and really like the idea of switching over to microfiber towels to skip the rinse.

[@GoGreenBx]

On a hot sunny day does the thick foam dry before you can get to it? If that's the case should I rinse and reapply soap just one side and then the other? Or is foam thick enough not to dry?

[@rafaeloliva8328]

Hey Josh I’m a new subscriber from New York I was wondering on any tips and products for matt factory paint I have a f150 black widow with factory Matt paint from acs (Georgia) any advice will be appreciated thank you God bless

[@caxcan9438]

Like your videos

[@EileenTheCr0w]

Josh, I do not see the link for this special window product.. "water" you called it?

[@keithdavighi]

We should play a drinking game that revolves around how many times Josh says "perfect". All kidding aside, great video!

[@johnnynguyen8337]

Can I dilute it with tap water or should I use distilled/deionized water?

[@jtltet]

What's the best method to get rid of water spots on glass and painted trim surfaces?

[@GoGreenBx]

Do you wax? and if so which wax do you prefer? and if your going to wax would u still finish the dry with the ceramic spray?

[@MaxGoddur]

Great video! One item jumped out at me while you were wiping/washing the lower section and moving up using the same rags, thought that was a no-no?

[@jayvavircek]

It looks like he flipped the rag over to a clean side

[@dalit_viii]

what do you put in the contact bucket?

[@B15K1TZ]

Just came across this and seeing you only use water and a clean microfiber towel... Will this process work on the inside of the window where i have hazing going on? Or is there another method for that?

[@RM-gv3lu]

Awesome video Josh. Can I still use the ceramic spray if the vehicle I washed has some swirl marks on it? Will it make anything worse?

[@Oakcitymedia]

tech ceramic spray works wonders. Even after a wash with swirls. Adds that layer of protection for weeks to months. Using a Ph balance car soap