Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Your 4WD After an Adventure

You’ve had your off-road adventure — the tracks, the sand, the mud, and the salt spray have all left their mark. Now it’s time to look after your 4WD and protect it from rust, corrosion. Just like preparing your vehicle before the trip is essential, what you do after you get back is just as important.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to properly clean your 4WD once you return home.

1. Start with the Underbody Cleaner

The underside of your 4WD takes the brunt of off-road punishment — mud, saltwater, sand, and dirt can build up in hard-to-reach places.

• Connect your Clean Offroad Underbody Cleaner to your pressure washer.
• Glide it underneath your vehicle to flush away debris, mud, and salt.
• Pay close attention to wheel arches, suspension components, and chassis rails where buildup is common.
• Don't forget to flush out the inside of the chassis rails

💡 Tip: A thorough underbody rinse is your best defence against rust and corrosion.

2. First Wash with the Foam Cannon & Beach 2 Clean

With the underside rinsed, it’s time to tackle the exterior.

• Fill your Foam Cannon with Beach 2 Clean solution.
• Apply a thick foam layer across your entire vehicle (don't forget under the bonnet).
• Let the foam dwell for a few minutes (not allowing to dry) — this helps lift salt, sand, and grime.
• Rinse thoroughly with your pressure washer.

This first wash is all about removing the bulk of the dirt.

💡 Tip: Park in a cool shaded area. If no shade is available, wash in the late afternoon 

3. Agitate Stubborn Grime (If Needed)

If you’ve been on a particularly muddy or salty adventure, a more thorough wash may be needed. Now that the bulk is removed

• Re-foam your vehicle with the cannon.
• Use a clean sponge or wash mitt with the foam to gently agitate and lift stubborn grime.
• Work from the top down to avoid dragging dirt across clean panels.

4. Final Rinse & Dry

Once the foam and grime have been removed:

• Give your 4WD a final rinse with fresh water to ensure no residue remains.
• Use a microfibre towel to dry your vehicle completely. This prevents water spots and ensures a streak-free finish.

Final Thoughts

A little time spent after each adventure makes a big difference in the long run. By cleaning and protecting your 4WD properly, you’ll:

• Prevent rust and corrosion.
• Keep your vehicle looking its best.
• Extend the life of your paint, undercarriage, and components.

Your 4WD takes you on the adventures you love — return the favour by giving it the care it deserves.

Looking for the best 4WD Cleaning Products?

You can find our full range and all the products mentioned here. We offer Australia wide delivery or pick up from one of our stockists.