How to Clean a Car Cover: Machine Wash, Hand Wash and Drying Tips
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A dirty car cover can do more harm than good, because grit on the inside rubs against your paint. Cleaning one isn’t hard, but the wrong washer, detergent or drying method can ruin the fabric’s coatings. Always check the label or instructions that came with your cover first.
Table of Contents
Before You Wash
- Find the care label or the instructions from the maker. Fabrics differ.
- Shake out loose debris like leaves and dust.
- Spot-treat bird droppings or sap with water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh solvents.
- Check the size of your washer. Many covers are too big for home machines.
Method 1: Machine Wash
CarCovers.org’s care guide, based on Covercraft’s instructions, recommends:
- Use the largest suitable washer. Extra-large SUV and pickup covers may need a large commercial front-loader.
- Use a machine without a center agitator and a gentle cycle when available.
- Dissolve a mild powder detergent first.
- Don’t use bleach or fabric softener.
- Rinse twice with water only so no detergent stays in the fabric.
- Dry using only the method listed for your fabric. Many covers should be air-dried.
Method 2: Hand Wash on the Car
For covers too big to machine wash, or if the label says so:
- Put the cover on a clean car.
- Hose it down to loosen dirt.
- Gently scrub with a soft brush and a mild soap solution.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Let it dry completely on the car or a clean line before removing.
How to Dry a Car Cover
- Air dry unless the label specifically allows tumble drying.
- Make sure it’s completely dry before folding. CarCovers.org says never to fold or bag a damp cover.
- Avoid high heat, which can damage coatings and elastic.
How to Fold and Store It
- Release the cover from both bumpers.
- Fold each side up onto the roof.
- Fold from front to back in sections, keeping the dirty outer surface folded inward.
- Store it in its bag in a clean, dry place away from sharp edges and chemicals.
How Often to Clean It
Clean an outdoor cover a few times a year, or whenever the inside looks dirty. Indoor dust covers need cleaning less often. Always put a cover on a clean car to keep the inside cleaner.
Things to Avoid
- Top-loading washers with center agitators
- Bleach, fabric softener and harsh solvents
- Pressure washers at close range
- High-heat drying
- Storing a damp cover
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a car cover in the washing machine?
Many covers can go in a large front-loader without a center agitator. Check your cover’s label first.
What soap should I use on a car cover?
A mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softener.
Can I dry a car cover in the dryer?
Only if the label allows it. Many covers should be air-dried.
Can I wash a car cover while it’s on the car?
Yes, a gentle hose and soft-brush wash works for many outdoor covers. Let it dry fully before removing.
The Bottom Line
To clean a car cover, shake it out, wash it gently in a large front-loader or by hand with mild detergent, skip bleach and softener, rinse well, and let it dry completely before folding. Follow your cover’s specific care instructions whenever they differ.
