Yes. Nonabrasive dish soaps are safe to use infrequently for washing a car. Procter & Gamble recommends using its Dawn dishwashing soap to remove grease and grime from exterior car surfaces. However, repeated use can degrade the clear coat prematurely, which creates a dull appearance and makes the paint vulnerable to damage. Although dishwashing soap is acceptable under certain circumstances, it should never be the first choice for a well-maintained car. Dish soap is so effective at its job that it will remove more than just stubborn contamination. It will remove any previously applied car wax or paint sealant and leave the paint unprotected.
Despite what others say, some dish soaps are nonabrasive. Some manufacturers, like the Colgate-Palmolive Company, advertise on their websites that their soaps contain no harsh abrasives. Suppose you find yourself in a pinch needing to remove stubborn grime from a car’s paint and don’t have car shampoo available, or you want to strip off any previously applied paint protection products before adding a new layer. In those cases, dish soap is a perfectly safe soap substitute.
Still, regularly using a specialized soap for your car is better in the long run:
- Dedicated car wash soaps contain lubricants that help lift dirt from the car’s surface. This action allows the debris to be rinsed away safely, reducing the risk of scratching. Kitchen dish soap usually lacks these lubricants, which increases the chance of fine scratches and swirl marks on the finish.
- Dish soap is usually alkaline, which means it has a higher pH. This chemistry helps break down grease. Car wash soap is typically pH-neutral or specially formulated to safely protect vehicle finishes. Consistent use of higher pH soaps can promote the oxidation of the car’s paint and also dry out the trim.
PRO TIP: Washing a car with dish soap — something I have done — is a persistent topic that has stirred up its fair share of controversy across the internet. There are many unconventional uses for household products and DIY car cleaning hacks that safely and effectively clean your car. Just be sure not to confuse liquid dish soap with dish detergent because the formulas are very different, and the latter often comes in a powdered formula that dissolves in hot water. For the most part, a car wash uses cold water, and there is a risk that undissolved ingredients from a detergent could scratch the paint.
Keeping dirt and grime off your automobile is a fundamental part of routine maintenance. Remember, keeping your vehicle clean and in great condition helps to retain your car’s value.
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What Is a Good Substitute for Car Wash Soap?
The best car cleaning kits will include quality car wash soap formulated for vehicle finishes. Nonabrasive dish soap can work in a pinch. Baby soap and pet shampoo are other alternatives. Both of these are gentler than liquid dish soap, and they will not remove any wax or paint protection from the car’s finish. Use a ratio of one ounce of baby or pet shampoo per gallon of water. Always use a double-bucket method when washing your car, with one bucket for rinsing the mitt after cleaning each panel and the other bucket containing clean, soapy water.
Bottom Line on Using Dish Soap for Car Washing
Keeping your car clean with the right products helps preserve its appearance and value. While nonabrasive dish soaps can safely clean your car in a pinch — especially for removing stubborn grime or old wax — they should not replace dedicated car wash soaps for regular maintenance. For the best results and to protect your car’s finish, use products specifically formulated for vehicles, or opt for gentle alternatives like baby soap or pet shampoo when necessary.
Editor’s Note: This article has been updated since its initial publication.