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How To Clean And Maintain Your PPF

By The Golden State Auto Salon Team · August 19, 2026

Good news: caring for film is a lot like caring for good paint. A few habits keep it clear and glossy for years.

The First Few Days

A little haze or a few small moisture pockets right after install is normal while the film settles, and they clear on their own. Give it a few days before the first wash.

The Wash Routine

• Hand wash with a pH neutral soap, or use a touchless wash
• Clean the wheels first with separate towels
• Pre-rinse and foam the car before touching the paint
• Wash with clean microfiber towels in straight lines, never circles
• Dry with a dedicated drying towel or a blower

What To Avoid

• Automatic brush car washes
• Harsh degreasers and abrasive polishes
• Holding a pressure washer nozzle close to film edges
• Wax on matte or satin film

Make It Even Easier

A ceramic coating over the film makes it slicker, glossier and much easier to wash, and helps it resist stains. Our full step by step wash routine is in the aftercare guide, and our maintenance washes follow it exactly if you would rather leave it to us.