Truck Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Big Rig Looking Good

As a truck driver, you know that having a truck that looks good and runs well is important. Being ready to take on a job and completing it as needed is what drives you forward and earns your income – plus, a clean truck is a happy truck! One that will help you look professional and pay it forward for you on every job you set out to complete. When you have a clean truck that looks well maintained and shows that there are no visible mechanical issues, it will not only look good on the road but will also, in most cases, prevent DOT from stopping you for a random roadside inspection.

The best way to keep your truck clean and ready to go when needed is to do a little cleaning every day. That’s right. It may sound like a lot of work, but you will be amazed at how much easier it is to keep the truck manageable and well-maintained. All you need is the right products and equipment for the job.

Big rigs are an expensive investment and you want to protect that investment in every way possible. Here are some tips to keep your big rig clean and well cared for.

Wash Once Per Week

Wash your big rig truck once per week to keep it looking great. If you don’t have that kind of time, washing it at least twice a month can go a long way in keeping your truck clean and shiny. When you wash your truck you’re also helping to prevent rust on the undercarriage and other parts of the vehicle that are not exposed to sunlight or rain. Consider investing in a high-quality car wash kit that includes shampoo, wax, brushes, and sponges or towels. You can use these products together with a chamois (another great tool for drying streak free) to thoroughly clean every inch of your truck—inside and out!

Keep the Truck and Trailer Painted

Your truck’s paint job plays an important role in not just making it look good but also protecting it from rust and other problems. By washing it regularly with a good quality soap and waxing it at least once per month you can help keep problems with the paint away. One mistake some make is thinking that if they use a pressure washer on the truck it will get cleaner, faster. However, pressure washing actually strips away protective layers of paint that protect against UV rays—making them more susceptible to chipping and fading over time.

Keep the Windows Clean

Another part of your truck that needs regular attention is the windows. The windows on a big rig can be exceptionally tall and wide and after being on the road so long, they take a beating from sun, wind, rain, and snow. Not to mention, the truck’s windows are also one of the first places where dirt and grime start to build up. That’s why it’s so important that you clean your windows once per week (or more if you have time). Plus, clean windows help you see better when driving – especially at night or in bad weather conditions like foggy days or rain storms. Anything that makes it easier for you to stay focused on driving safely without being distracted by poor visibility caused by dirty windows is a major plus.

Wipe Down the Dashboard

You should wipe down the dashboard of your truck twice a week. Use a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. Be sure to clean the vents as well. It’s also important to check for any loose bolts or screws that could pose a safety risk while you’re driving down the highway. If you notice any damage or missing parts on your dash, make sure you replace them immediately before something goes wrong in an emergency situation. 

Speaking of the dash, products like Armor All are great for cleaning the dash and keeping it shiny, and preventing build-up. Since the dashboard is a high-traffic area of your truck, it needs to be cleaned more often. Not only does this keep the dash looking fresh and new, but it also means you can avoid costly repairs in the future.

Cleaning your truck is a great way to maintain it for the long haul and keep it in top condition. Owner-operators are passionate about their work, so it’s no surprise that we care about how our trucks look as well. If you’re looking for ways to keep your rig clean, just follow these simple tips!