From dump trucks to semis, trucking is the lifeblood of most economies, getting goods and materials where they need to be. But your truck doesn’t come out of it clean, so you’ll need to wash it every so often. We here at California Truck Centers know that sounds overwhelming, so we’ve put together a brief guide on cleaning your truck to get you started. To learn more, or to see the trucks we have for sale, contact our stores throughout the great state of California, today!

Why It’s Important

Keeping your truck or even your fleet is vital for a number of reasons. First off, dirt and grime buildup can lead to serious maintenance issues, and if you’re hauling anything corrosive, that can cause damage as well. Dirt also hides other problems and makes them harder to catch before they become serious. 

A clean rig is also just good business. You wouldn’t show up for a job wearing yesterday’s clothes and smelly because that gives the wrong impression. The same goes for your truck, so keep it clean to make sure it looks professional and reassuring.

Washing The Trailer Or Body

First, you’ll want to wash the interior of the trailer or body. If using soap and other cleaners, double check the instructions and warnings on the label. You should also look through your owner’s manual for recommended cleaning products. 

When washing, start at the top and move downwards, rinsing as you go to prevent the soap scum from drying onto the surface and undoing all your work. Do the same with the outside, remembering to clean accessories like ramps and shovels. Once everything is cleaned and rinsed, let the trailer or body air dry and drain excess water—and don’t operate it until it’s dry!

Washing The Truck Or Cab

For washing the truck or cab, you have a few options. If the trailer is detachable, take just the truck and find a local truck washing service. These are like the industrial versions of your average car cash, and an automated one can offer a fast and deep clean. Unfortunately, they’re also often expensive. 

A brush wash or hand wash is also an excellent option, providing a lot of attention to detail that an automated service can’t give you. That said, human error is always a factor, so always check the reputation before taking your truck to a place you’re considering.

We hope this guide helps you keep your truck looking healthy and professional! If you have any questions, or you want to see the trucks we have for sale, contact us at California Truck Centers. We proudly serve the people of the great state of California—let us serve you today!