Whether it’s an old car or a recently produced model, we all love when a ride is looking all “frosh” and shiny. Waxing and polishing your car isn’t just about aesthetics by the way – even if that’s what drives most of us in Naija insane; it’s about preserving that showroom sparkle and protecting your paint job from the elements. And with that said, let’s dive into the art of waxing and polishing to ensure your car stays as radiant as ever!

Preparation is Key

Before embarking on the waxing and polishing journey, you have to firstly ensure that your car is squeaky clean. Begin with a thorough wash, as in make you wash am well well O – using a dedicated car shampoo and a soft microfibre mitt or fabric.

Start at the roof and work your way down, washing one section at a time. Try to wash off any dirt, sludge, grit and grime intensely and then rinse off any soap residue thoroughly, ensuring no streaks are left behind. Once washed, dry your car completely using a clean microfibre towel to prevent water spots.

You might want to take your vehicle to the “experts” to carry out the same procedure more or less if you’re unable to take it on yourself for whatever reason or the other, but for a price of course. However if you’re finicky about stuff like this you should monitor the entire process closely from inception to completion in order to ensure the work is optimally done, and to your satisfaction as well.

Choosing the Right Products

Selecting the appropriate wax and polish for your car’s specific needs is crucial. Consider factors such as your car’s paint type (clear coat, single-stage, metallic, etc.) and colour when choosing products. You should always opt for high-quality waxes and polishes from reputable brands to ensure superb results.

If you’re unsure about what or which products to choose from, please seek advice from car care professionals or refer to product labels for guidance on compatibility and application instructions. A thorough Google search/watching YouTube DIY (Do-it-yourself) videos can also be a major tool at your disposal.

Wax On, Wax Off

This sub-topic is an ode to one of the greatest movie franchises of all time – Karate Kid:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-ES4AiOZCs (coincidentally celebrating its 40-year anniversary – chai, I feel old!), where a young Daniel LaRusso is taught the art of Karate via everyday house-hold chores such as washing-cum-waxing a car and painting a fence by a true master of the arts – Mr. Miyagi. Wow, what a digression. Let’s get back to it, shall we…

Now that your car is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the wax. Begin by shaking the wax bottle well to ensure proper mixing of the formula. Using a foam applicator pad, apply a small amount of wax onto the pad and start working it into the paint using small, circular motions. Start from the top of the car and work your way down, make sure you obtain an even coverage. Take care not to apply too much wax at once, as a little goes a long way. Allow the wax to haze over according to the product instructions, typically between 5 to 15 minutes depending on environmental conditions.

Once hazed, buff off the wax using a clean, dry microfibre cloth, using light pressure and overlapping strokes. Continue this process until the entire car is waxed – revealing a brilliant, glossy shine – wey dey enta for eye!

Polishing for Perfection

With the waxing complete, it’s time to take your car’s shine to the next level with polishing. Ensure the car is clean and dry before proceeding. Apply a small amount of polish onto a fresh foam applicator pad, then gently work it into the paint using light, overlapping motions. Focus on one section at a time, such as the bonnet or door panel, ensuring thorough coverage.

The polish will help remove any fine scratches, swirl marks, and oxidation (when the paint faints in patches kind of like vehicle eczema), restoring depth and clarity to the paintwork. Allow the polish to dry to a haze, typically between 5 to 10 minutes, before buffing it off with a hand-held buffing/polishing machine, or a clean, dry microfibre cloth. Repeat this process until the entire car has been polished to perfection.

Finishing Touches

After polishing, step back and admire the fruits of your labour! However, before calling it a day, take a clean microfiber cloth and give your car a final wipe-down to remove any remaining product residue. This step ensures a flawless finish, free from streaks or smudges, leaving your car looking immaculate.

Maintenance Matters

To prolong the benefits of waxing and polishing, regular maintenance is essential. Schedule periodic waxing and polishing sessions every few months, depending on your car’s exposure to the elements. Additionally, consider using quick detailer sprays or spray waxes as interim maintenance solutions to keep your car looking its best between full waxing sessions.

Regular washing with a gentle car shampoo and microfibre mitt or fabric will also help preserve the shine and protect your paintwork from environmental contaminants over time.


Waxing and polishing your car is more than just a routine maintenance task; it’s a labour of love that pays dividends in the form of a gleaming, showroom-worthy finish. By following these detailed steps and investing time and effort into proper car care, you can ensure your pride and joy remains a head-turner for years to come. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite car care products, and take on the task. Alternatively, you can definitely explore the option of taking it to the professionals if you can afford to.