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Car wash or car detail: what's the difference?

A wash keeps a car clean. A detail brings it back. Here is how to tell which one your car needs right now.

From our detailers · 3 min read

A wash is maintenance

A wash removes the dirt you can see: dust, pollen, salt and grime on the outside, and crumbs and dust inside. Done regularly, it keeps your car looking good and stops dirt from sitting on the paint.

A detail is restoration

A detail goes below the surface. It removes contamination bonded to the paint with a clay bar, polishes to bring back gloss, adds protection that lasts for months, and deep cleans the interior with steam and shampoo.

Which one do you need?

  • ✓Car looks fine but dirty: a Signature Haus Wash.
  • ✓Paint feels rough or looks dull, cabin needs a refresh: a Mini Haus Detail.
  • ✓Light swirls, faded shine, tired interior: the Haus Detail.
  • ✓Everything needs attention, or you're selling the car: The Works.