How Often Should I Wash My Car?

There’s no single wash schedule that works for every car. Use this guide to set a baseline schedule and know under what conditions you shouldn’t wait to wash.

Find My Wash Schedule
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Determining Wash Frequency

Time your washes based on how you drive and store your vehicle.

Not all cars are the same. Some are driven often, others are kept in a garage. There is no set, predetermined wash schedule that will work for every situation. Instead, use common sense based on the average recommended wash frequency for daily drivers. If you need help figuring it out, reference the quick tips below.

Guidelines, Not Deadlines

These intervals are only a baseline. If things change and your vehicle gets dirtier more quickly than anticipated, don’t wait to wash. Common sense is key here.

Wash Frequency Estimates

Use these general recommendations as a baseline for your wash schedule.
Find your custom schedule in the Car Wash Toolkit at the bottom of the page.

Driven Regularly +
Parked Outside

Every 2 Weeks

Greater exposure to pollen, rain, airborne contamination, and bird droppings.

Driven Regularly +
Usually Garaged

Every 2–4 Weeks

Garage storage reduces exposure, although driving still creates road film.

Driven Occasionally +
Garaged

As Needed

Inspect after driving and before extended storage.

Seasonal or Show Vehicle

Before or After Use, As Needed

Wash when driving conditions or storage preparation require it.

Free Printable Decision Tool

Know When It’s Time to Wash.

Use this quick reference to identify contaminants on your paint, know how urgently they should be removed and decide whether to wash now or safely wait. This guide will help you:


Understand what kinds of contaminants are on your vehicle


Set a baseline wash schedule according to your needs


Decide when to wash using an easy-to-follow decision tree

Free 4-page PDF · Printable · Delivered by email