In early spring, blooming trees release liberal amounts of pollen. A greenish-yellow dust settles everywhere along roofs, the ground and everything in between — including on your car. Pollen itself is not especially destructive. For some people, it causes sneezing or triggers allergies — a problem best left to the medical experts. When pollen settles on any surface, it typically stays there until wind or rain removes it. For car owners, ignoring pollen is not just messy; it could also damage the paint. The easiest solution to pollen buildup is simply to wash your car. Grab your tools – car wash cleaner, sponges, rags, microfiber towels and buckets, and start the car washing process.
Wash off every square inch of your car, from the top down to the sides. Next, set the hose aside, add a trusty car wash solution to your bucket, fill it with water and use a heavy-duty sponge to go over every surface. Start from the top to the bottom of the vehicle. Use separate sponges for non-paint surfaces, such as the wheels, chrome and glass.
When drying your car, make sure to have invested in a proper drying towel to avoid scratching. Apply a car wax solution immediately after drying. However, skip this step if you are in the midst of a pollen storm; you might find yourself rubbing pollen into your car’s finish and damaging the paint. Plan on washing your car again within a few days for pollen removal. Wait for the opportunity to apply car wax when pollen is not flying through the air. Wax may not prevent pollen build up, but it will protect your car’s finish against all types of environmental fallout.
Certainly, pollen removal is a priority. Waiting for nature to take its course can damage the paint, thereby reducing the value of your car. Ideally, though, you should plan on washing your car and waxing it as soon as winter ends to remove corrosive road salt build up and to provide a level of protection before the spring pollen onslaught returns. Once tree pollen season eases, you can return to a normal car wash routine. Add in quarterly waxing, and you will retain your car’s sheen and preserve its great looks. You may not be able to prevent pollen accumulation, but by following these pollen removal tips you keep your car looking great.
