So I'm over going to the drive thrus. My old and weary rubber seals do a pretty good job of keeping the rain out but seem to let a fair bit of water through when hit with a high pressure blaster and all that foam seems to make me miss big patches of crud anyways.

So I've got water, a bucket, a sponge, spare time...went to look at detergents and got confused, for start NONE of them said they were bio-degradable (my driveway drains onto my lawn) some had wax some were heavy duty, uhhh how well does Datsun paint hold up to morning fresh dishwashing liquid?

Interested to hear your cleaning and general care rituals, tips and hints inside and out, what kinda detergents, do you wax (the car, that is :/) upholstery and rubber cleaning and preserving ect.

morning fresh works fine

if you had real nice paint i would say pick a good brand like mothers wash n wax

so easy = best for rubebr imo

most of the wash and wax based soaps are fine for lawns. My lawn has never died from the budgo 'kitten wash n wax', but generic washing liquid is fine. just make sure you get all the soap off and dont let it dry on.

I hate to be un-enviromental but use plenty of water, and the cleaner the water the better.

If you have hard water in your area (ie lots of minerals) then you may end up with a light residue on the paint. Generally scheme water is fine, its only really an issue if you are in a really old area with old pipes, or use bore water.

Don't use dish washing liquid. It contains salts and minerals that makes the car rust and removes the wax layer you might have on the car if you frequently wax the car.

For real? Ill leave it for the dishes then. I think just the combo wash wax hoping my lawn is as resilient as reubys.
What's this so easy stuff perthute? Where you get it ? Been looking for something to preserve rubber seals ect...

I use Johnson and Johnson Baby Shampoo - ph neutral - no or at least a lot less - corrosion

exactly what 1200gxman said. So may people wash there car with detergent it's partly the reason why you see newer cars with clear coat peeling off them the salt just eats into everything, Avoid Detergent at all cost. We always use shampoo just the ones on special at ya supermarket or reject shops only need a teaspoon. Give it a wax occasionally after a good wash and shammy.

Don't use dishwashing detergent. I wouldn't even recommend shampoo ... They're too harsh a cleaning agent.
Wash 'n wax cleaners are ok if you're after a quick clean.
If you want a good finish and are happy to spend a few hours getting it -
wipe the car down with a wax and grease remover - prepsol or the likes
wash the car with a decent carwash, chamois it off
wax the car with a quality carnuba paste as opposed to a liquid
apply it in the shade to cool paintwork, buff it off
if you want to take it one step further use a sealer on it such as meguiars final detailer or inspection (can't remember the actual name but it's a spray bottle job) spray it on and
polish it off before it drys

and TAAAAA DAAAAAAA !!!!! A sparkly shiney datsun like new !!

The better quality carnuba wax you use the longer the results will last
I've got a cheapish liquid wax I use and it'll last 45days give or take
then I've also got a quality paste wax which'll last about 60-90 days
and finally a solid wax that'll last 90-120 days and gives a real deep shine, this one maiy gets used on show cars or for people that want a top quality finish.
I'd personally go a carnuba wax over a synthetic wax, they are easier to achieve good quality shine and depth with especially if you're polishing by hand, not with a buffer.
Synthetics will often last longer and fill minor scratches but are alot more prone to streaking and leaving swirls.

Lastly, once you've wax/polished it try to avoid using high presure car wash soap on it, this stuff Is also pretty harsh and will strip the wax off. Wash it with a proper car shampoo.
If it's not too dirty just spray the car down and chamois it off

And one more thing .... You do get what you pay for when it comes to car waxes.

so how much for you to wash my car boof ;)