This is incredible. Finally somebody has the guts to speak the truth about car valeting. Its not all about sticking the car under a bright light looking for scratches. Thank you so much for sticking up for the British Car valeting industry! 💪
I've told you my views in private but this is 100% spot on... To do this the way some 'TH-cam detailers' imply they should be done simply isn't realistic for people trying to do this professionally. Not every car needs an award winning finish and if everyone wanted that then roadside car washes wouldn't exist. Sometimes expectations have to align with pricing! Epic video Dave 😉👍🏼👍🏼😁
Hi just found your channel I use to valet 25 yrs ago and glad to see someone can see the difference between detailing , valeting, and car cleaning . Ps thought it was only us old blokes who called it a flunkie 😂🤣
You’ve hit the nail firmly on the head. There’s a big difference between car cleaners, valeters, and detailers. There’s also got to be a difference in the cost, the level of “clean”, and the expectations. Communicate with the customer clearly about what they are getting for their money and there shouldn’t be too many issues. For the weekend warrior it doesn’t matter if I spend 4 hours tarty about “detailing” my car, it’s a different story when you’re doing it for a living.
I’m not watching your videos because I’m going to valet anyone else’s car, but I am learning a lot from your site on cleaning and maintaining my own car. You explain things so well and give really useful advice on what products to use and how to use them. Really helpful, well made videos. Thank you very much for posting such useful stuff! Best of luck to you
I"m in Southern California. You are exactly right. So many buy into the hype with 2 bucket methods and foam cannons creating more work for themselves. Time is money. What you did here applies to nearly every car except those that went through mud. Detailing has been around before everyone here was born. They weren't using 2 bucket methods and foam cannons and still produced great results. Majority of customers just want their cars clean and maybe a wax. Great video
I'm hooked and you've totally inspired me After this I subscribed to you channel. Now I'm writing my business plan and getting organised whilst my job is still paying the rent. Who knew a bloke on TH-cam would show me my next chapter. Thanks buddy
Hello Micky that's kind of you to say. I have a business playlist with ideas about starting up and go through what it's really like running a car valeting business. Thank you 🙏
Finally someone from the UK giving us business advice. Everything you said will help me. I felt the same but was worried because people get so obsessed with the 2 bucket method. Nice to see someone out there with a camera instead of hiding their garage 😂
Hello Thank you and well done mate. Glad to hear you starting out. These videos are all a bit different. I have a business playlist that may be able to help you and have start up videos coming very soon to add to that!
I agree. Since I came across his channel I've watched a ton of his videos. Even made a business instagram for my own mobile detail and followed him haha
Utterly brilliant reality check, be organised and set expectations for yourself and the customer. Thank you bringing the flunky out of retirement. I got one for the car windows at your recommendation and can honestly say it does a better job, out side and in. Would be interesting if you did a short vid on things you absolutely would not do (to a car), might be a bit obvious, but anyway, Cheers David
Great idea Simon, that's something I can feature. I got a car potentially lined up for Halloween. Not got it yet but made an offer to the owner as it's probably the most famous, iconic film car ever made so praying I get the gig next week
Excellent video David. Interesting distinction between the driveway detailer spending all day Sunday cleaning his pride and joy to the guy trying to earn a decent living 💵💵 Keep the content coming mate 👍
I think you hit the nail right on the head there with a real word and sensible take on what is after all a business. And business exist to make money, otherwise your ‘buying your work’ what’s the point in that? Great channel, keep up the excellent work, liked and subscribed!👍
Just adding car valeting into the services for my cleaning business. Been stressing out trying to workout what to include and what not to include. Great video.
Excellent straightforward advice. You are running a business and customers can often want 'something for nothing' so to speak - not appreciating just what is involved in the job. Ensuring customers know what they get for what price point is critical. Fairness then all round. Peter
Amazing to watch honest real life situation . It's a hard job to be in and making money from it is tough especially when most videos out there show you super clean workshops with more lights than a dentist and a car that's barely a month old nice to see what happens in the real world Who hasn't seen a flash car in a hand car wash ? Some people like you say just want clean top vid Dave...
If you cleaned my car like this it would break my heart lol. That's why I would pay more to get the extra detailing. You get what you pay for , and you are trying to make a living , not run a charity... Spot on man 👍
Yeah its a bit of reality check video I set up. So i know loads of people who actually work like this but have no choice because the money just isnt there for them so hopefully it reaches out to the right people
Epic. So much truth spoken. I'm an enthusiast do it part time. And how many times have I felt exactly what you describe. I always do too much. Then get demotivated. Takes a long time to do complete a thorough clean and but the reality of a fair cost of that time is different.
You obviously have your own methods and techniques, but if that’s the way you want to do them, then why should you get stuck. You’re doing a great hob by showing young entrepreneurs on how to start out a business and showing them YOUR methods (which have got you where you are now) so people should all be liking your videos and asking for more videos to be put up. Keep up the good work mate, if only their were more good hearted people like yourself on this planet. Take care and all the best. Thanks for the videos man 👌😉
Nice one and I agree, keep your business head on. Many owners just aren't knowledgeable and wouldn't even notice if you got the car perfect. They're probably going to change the car every couple of years anyway. Keep it up.
I've just started working at a professional business and I was taught to use the chammys and in my opinion there amazing they get any dirt you have missed and great for people starting out for that reason
Hi mate the Chamois leathers are pretty bad for paintwork in terms of risking potential scratching it wouldn't really show after the odd clean. For luxury cars and valets yes use towels but average Joe cars definitely not worth it unless they pay what your worth
Just went tru that yesterday with 2 cars. They paid for a regular in n out wash and interior plus wax and my detailed instincts kicked in n I ended up taking 3 hours on each. Great video btw!
Great video you defo talk sense as I'm a valeter myself for over 20 years its great to see that you know how to do it properly but not as well as each car and customer are different makes sense it's all about time and and using your experience to change from car to car. It can't aways be perfect in the real world and even your quick clean will be ten times better then your local hand wash site with ten men with dirty clothes
If you got a new car and you love it then 2 bucket is recommended for best results. But it's just something that serves a purpose then one bucket is fine 👍
I do find it very hard when doing a basic clean to find a stop point for what is acceptable and where I should stop. For me I always want perfect but this isn’t cost affective. I think I’ll def use the TFR method more going forward on unprotected cars
Can always offer additional things as extras on top of the standard price for a basic mini valet. A lot of mobile guys use the upselling approach. Using TFR as opposed to snow foam easily sheds 10 mins off a mini valet. You can always offer a premium mini valet whereby you use snow foam and charge accordingly for the additional time, cost of product etc Content is a total breath of fresh air compared to the usual detailer videos you see online
Hello Sean, wow that's pretty amazing of you to say. If you're new to the channel yes I've done some videos all about upsells and got some great business video's if you check out my business playlist you will find all sorts of information. If you're into that of course lol. Thanks mate 👍
Spot on video. To many videos show full on complete detailing. A basic wash is just that. Time is money at the end off the day. I will be this year trying to start my on little moblie business. Currently working out the most cost effective products. Played around last year with a £50 quid budget to start. Managed to upgrading my pressure washer, get a henry hover, and restock chemiclas with the profits. Your videos have been a massive help so thank you. Next for me is basic chemical set, steam cleaner, and a wet vac for the extras i could be charging. For me personally Bilt hamber autofoam and surfx are both amazing value for cost performance.
Your in luck. I have a video coming up which breaks down the cost of everything you need and I look at cheap alternatives for people getting started 👌. Thanks for watching mate
I'm really glad I watched this,he is right in the fact that u have to make money, and be clear to the customer about how they want it done ✅. Cars don't take 5 minutes to do,you could spend 6hours on a full clan Al over.great video
Top vid mate. It’s exactly what I’m trying to get across in my own videos. My problem is I take the comments to heart so you feel an obligation to do it “right”......... but what is right ?? Lol Thanks again and stay safe.
Hello mate. Its a nightmare some people will only point out mistakes and never point out the fact you spend hours on end to try and make it. I respect anyone for trying. The problem is the more bigger you become the more people attack so you got to just switch off to it. I get about 5 negative comments per day and just hide the user and over time it has become the norm for me so its not as bad as it was as its something i just get used to now
Excellent video Dave, you made loads of extremely valid points. Key point is to always value yourself and your time. Life has taught me the more you do for people, the more they expect. Regarding the 2 bucket method. Honestly for all car washing ditch those buckets completely. A much quicker way is to fill a spray bottle with diluted car shampoo 10:1 and use a hose to rinse the wash mitt or pad. It's so much quicker and uses less product and your rinsing the wash mitt with clean fresh water.
@@epicautomotivedetailingThank you Dave for putting watchable and useful content out there. Honestly Dave, if you have outside tap access the spray bottle method saves so much time rather than fannying about with buckets and grit guards.
To be fair you only get what you pay for. A £35 valet should be no more than an hour or so. Synthetic chamois is fine as i have one on standby! I don't valet cars for a living but i am a strict weekend warrior!! I am in the cleaning business so time is money any extra should never be given for free and your right about keeping the client informed if any area needs extra attention. Great vid david as ever, really appreciate your tips on car care.
I have been having problems coming up with the right price especially in relation to time, on one side I don't want harm on the car, but the two bucket method honestly takes time even on an mid range SUV, in a third world country like mine I still have to explain myself a lot before the clients understand, even then I hardly get a call because I seem expensive, so this tutorial helps a lot. I will now be able to have a flexible price list that also doesn't frustrate my time per vehicle.
Date, brill vid as usual. I do this as a hobby but use the 1 bucket method but have a shampoo solution of 50 ml to 450 ml of water, bucket with grit guard, get the mott wet, then spray the solution onto the mitt before you apply, then scrub against grit guard and rinse and onwards, works well and saves so much on my view
Brilliant well done Phil. I know many people love the 2 bucket method but my own car is a dump so I don't use 2 bucket method on my own car. As long as it looks good to you that's all that matters 😃
Nice one. No shame in this method. I think people need to wake up and stop having a go at valeters and realise they can't do full snow foam 2 bucket etc standards for a £20 clean 👏 power to you! 🙏
@@epicautomotivedetailing that's the problem with people they will never be happy. You give them your hand they bloody want your elbow. Nothing is ever enough. But carry on with what you doing beacuse end of the day if they think they can do it better why don't they show the world how to do it properly. Truth is these people are all talk. Or as we say keyboard bull*****😂
Really good and informative video. I’ve recently got a really good car and wanted to find out how the professionals cleaned cars. I’ve never been into cars a lot and never cleaned them much but when I have I’ve used a bucket of warm water with washing up liquid, made sense to me, but of course it looked crap. So I used a good car shampoo, still didn’t look good. So I given up... Until a few days ago getting my 19 plate car. Trouble is I’m on the side of a busy road. So It was interesting that you say about the 1 or 2 bucket method. But surely just giving a dirty car a rinse off would take maybe a couple of buckets. Or do you pressure wash it first? Also I have been a self employed gardener for a long time now so I’m looking this from how I usually do pricing work and my regular rounds. My concern is the cost of materials and the time it takes to get from customer to customer. I’m amazed that you don’t need to charge more than you do. I would be really interested to know how much you are aiming at per hour. I’m guessing/hoping around £20 to £25? What you are doing is hard work! You really need to make it pay and pay well enough to cover overheads inc cleaning materials and travelling etc and of course the van depreciation, taxes, insurances etc. Ultimately giving the quality service you are aiming for the customer I’m sure would be happy paying the rate for that.
Hello Edward id say £25 per hour is a fair rate but you need to make sure you can make it a profitable business. It is hard graft and it takes something special to keep momentum going
Super duper advice man, well done and gosh don't you video makers work hard! Must take flipping ages to edit and compile. I use a damp microfiber with my bilt hamber auto wash for interior windows, then a dry microfiber to wipe over. Works a treat and then use the solution for the exterior as usual. Wax on, wax off!
As a pure customer i would like to add my own view, This is exactly what i would expect from a Mini valet, just a basic clean up of the daily driver school run bus. Your competitors are not the other detailers, its the drive through car washes staffed by lots of guys, you know the ones. I have a kia ceed, its a newish company car and i pay £30 at the "drive through" they do the tfr pretreat, snowfoam ( i suspect thats more for looks as its on for about a minute), hand wash and glass/vaccum cleaning. and its a conveyor belt system, quick easy and usually "good enough" What i expect from a home mini valet is similar, nothing special, BUT... more attention to detail, nothing been missed, windows lowered to get the rim of the glass, essentially the same job, but better. Will i pay £80 ( which most are asking for) hell no. its a family work hack the only reason someone is going to look at it for more than 5 seconds is if they are going to pinch it.
Great, somebody that is actually realistic about the job. Far too many internet detailers that think every 25 quid valet should be done to detail standards. The simple truth is that the majority of customers just want a clean car and dont know what a swirl is.. Only thing id add is one of the cheap rinse aids as they are so fast and easy to apply and cost pence per application and make drying much easier whilst giving a nicer finish but thats just my opinion. Out of interest, how many of these do you do on an average day?
Well not being mobile, I'm tackling things in a different way. And constantly thinking outside the box for solutions, and it's great your content shows all the problems perfectly. My technique for the wash is two big buckets and when it's quiet I clean the MIT's out as much as possible or chuck them in a quick wash machine cycle .. there isn't really anyone doing content on location valeting or regular washbay & as you can imagine I want to do it better than other places I see. I atleast don't use the big yellow sponges, I also prefer to have someone with me on a high pressure steam gun and blasting out the hard to reach areas, wich is great for busy days or just myself when it's less busy, that cost varies with run costs bt yeah inovations are where I'm at.. I know this is something I want to go forward with, I'm not an expert tho I do know how to get the job done.. any feedback greatly appreciated, I know I'm doing things a bit differently
thanks so much for getting in touch. This Content is a bit old now So i have a brand new channel which is straight to the point. It may help you 😀 th-cam.com/channels/RcnBHHmSSoCVddBC3bI25Q.htmlvideos
Absolute class video! I'm just starting out, and when it comes to car cleaning the perfectionist in me comes out which a number of people have noticed and want me to clean their cars, however like you say, I end up shooting myself in the foot by charging for a mini valet but doing far more. Just done a car today and ngl it took me HOURS!! Definitely going to be taking away these tips! Any advice for carpets? Have been hoovering and shampooing them over and over again but just takes so long. Cheers!
Brilliant glad you could take something from this video. With all best intentions we all want to do our best but if the client pays little then it gets hard to get motivated
Hi Dave, loving your video's, packed full of real world advice and fun to watch. I'm a bit of a weekend warrior and do friends car's for free to practice getting it right. Been using Meguires mainly but have now jumped onto the Yum range after watching your vids. Thinking of starting up for real now after watching your channel 👍👍👍
I applaud your honest viewpoint. Just curious as to your opinion on the hand car washes that seem to be popping up everywhere !! They offer a quick 'in & out' for around £10, which basically covers the procedure you explained here. Do you ever have this mentioned when you quote for jobs & what is your response?
Thank you. If I'm honest they have done mobile valeters a big favour. They clean all the crap cars no valeter wants. The thing is the majority are not skilled enough. The personal touch is everything
All makes sense....I do a 1bucket on my own car nowadays, hardly ever any dirt at the bottom...maybe two bucket for dirty cars, and depending on time of year...doesn’t take that much longer really imo. Btw did u blast out the shuts with the pressure washer didn’t see that bit? Good video tho keep’em coming 👍
Hello Chris yes I cut footage short to keep things fresh. If that makes sense. So it stops it all being the Same throughout. Next video coming in few days 👌
Awesome mate, I'm just planning on starting & this has helped a lot 👌 The main thing I'm stuck on is how much water you need to carry in the van & how to get the pressure from the water tank to the power washer 🤔 Cheers mate!
Hello so K series pressure washers are all able to draw water from a tank provided the tank is gravity fed. So water tank above the washer so the weight of water presses down if that makes sense
Hi Dave, awesome video,doing mini valets you got to be specific about what's involved,2 things on here I do myself,1)1bucket method 😔,2) use a leather but I use two separate mitts for top and bottom of the car.but it comes up well.
As long as you're happy doing it how you want then that's all that matters. These days too many people put the bar so high that it's not practical for everyday people. What car do you have? Have you tried the flunky yet?
Still on the stage about thinking about get my own up and running. Subscribed as you've made me want to do it more and get out of the contracted hours from an employer! Can you get a full mini valet done in an hour?
Awesome video I'm thinking on starting a car valet where I stay as there is nothing here the closest car valet is about 68km away. Could you please send me the products that you use thank you for sharing your video
Great video Dave, I can definitely relate to this as I also run my own mobile valeting business (12 years now) Sometimes you just don't have time to mess around especially when you get to a job and customer says I need the car shortly 😂. Keep up the good work 👍
Thank you mate. Well done on 12 years. Bet you got some stories to tell? If you got anything interesting or that disgusting I may even share it. I'm thinking about making a video on valeters worst experiences
Thanks mate, definitely had my fair share of dirty ones as I'm sure you have too. That would be a good video. Recently started insulating my van before the frost starts freezing up the chemicals again 😂
There is a price for everything , people must understand it . There is a saying in my country, it is better to lie down at home for free than working for free . You gotta retrive what you invested and get the profit out of it ...
I’m not a pro and spend hours detailing my cars but when I do family vehicles, I don’t bother with two buckets etc. What a waste on cars that aren’t meticulously looked after and I’m doing for free. My daughter for example couldn’t care less and just wants a clean car. A vacuumed interior makes her day!
Epic information. While we don’t use the term ‘valet’ in Australia, your point is well taken. Communicate clearly with your client and make sure they pay for the service you provide. My problem is I can’t imagine not doing the wheel barrels. Also, I never use 2 bucket method. I use 5 mitts in my wash bucket and use a fresh, clean mitt face for each panel working top to bottom, discarding the used mitt into a second empty bucket. Clients love the amount of care shown. Lloyd
Epic Car Show Detailing while I’m use to the heat 90% of our summer days are only around 29°C-32°C. I use a 3’x3’ marquee if I’m outside in the middle of the day or plan the detail to be inside the car during the middle of the day. I usually consume about 3 litres of water too. Lloyd
Epic Car Show Detailing ha ha. If I did that, I’d rarely work! I’m actually a high school teacher transitioning to retirement. I’m a car nut and want to stay active in retirement and it’s a great way to exercise my back after spinal surgery. All your tips are appreciated as I’d like to make a bit of pocket money along the way.
@@indetailcarcaresolutions3770 Amazing well done mate. So the teacher is becoming the student. I do feel blessed. Man hope your back doesnt cause you too many problems as car cleaning can be a real pain the back and the shoulders
Bit late on this one, but this video is perfect and has made me decide to add a “mini valet” to my services, what wheel cleaner are you using in this video? I use incinerate on my bigger price ticket cleans but wondering if theres a cheaper alternative for a mini valet ontop of a tfr
@@epicautomotivedetailing yeah incinerate is my go to, mainly at 10:1, although I have had to use it neat before, which wasnt fun haha! Need to mix up a 5:1 bottle aswell really, gonna give their “big red” tfr a go too for mini valets
Well done mate,your contents are amazing .myself I’ve got hand carwash business the best chemical sprayer is IK ones they are best quality .I’ve had most of the sprayers but they are not as good as IK.
Brilliant video. I am hoping to go into mobile valeting myself. And this has shown me alot already. Just one question so a mini valet is just a basic clean with no car wax or polish on the outside. What would you class it as to your customers if they wanted a mini valet inside and out and a machine wax or wash and wax on the outside. Thanks for your information I will be following you from now on 👍 and what's the stuff you are spraying on the bottom of the car passenger doors
Hello thank you for watching. The spray on the bottom is a tfr which breaks down the dirt which I prefer over snow foam of your going for speed. So I would charge machine polish as an extra. But then I wouldn't Machine polish without offering a clay bar so there is lots of possibilities to charge extra
You are correct we can’t use 2 bucket method as we have to go the client, fuel, chemicals, washing our mits etc, however someone having a £25 valet doesn’t care about those issues, because they can go to the local car wash and get the same service for £20 so increasing costs although essential doesn’t mean you’ll get the business
I really like this 'zero bullshitery' video. I think the industry has gone a bit mad with all the fancy pants chemicals and equipment. Its al.ost like the DETAILER POLICE will come round if you don't use the 2 3 4 or 5 bucket method. Great video.
@@dalydetailz2120 its basicley down to what the customer wants if they want to pay out thousands for it but most just want it cleaned and left up to them to get it done
A little thing I do on pea shingle and gravel drives. I use rubber mats under the tyres to avoid extra dirt or worse still damage to lower body or wheels.
Welcome. It’s true so so important to be organised saves so much time and looks so professional. Check out my TH-cam van set up videos. Where are you working from??
Hello mate, thank you for watching. I think these days people get over complicated with detailing and products. Customers always think differently to how we would
@@epicautomotivedetailing Oh brilliant. I'm sure if you keep working at it it will come eventuallty. I find these all really helpful. I am wanting to start my own detailing / washing business but I am really just trying to get some ideas and knowledge on the best ways to do so. I've just watched your video on how to get started and have been taking notes and hopefully ill be able to get going soon. :)
@@epicautomotivedetailing Oh definitely. Ill take a look. I cant find anything that is more satisfying than a lovely polished cleaned car. Thats why i want to do it as a career.
I have helped a friend detail his car a few times over the year and we've had the idea of starting our own business for mobile car detailing. We work full-time but are happy to make it a side hustle on the weekends and even make it our full-time job in the future if all goes well. Neither of us have any experience in business or detailing cars other than the few times we've done it on personal vehicle nor have we ever had training. Do you think it's a good idea and could you give any advice regarding: certificate/training required, insurance,how to begin the business, what's needed for the business, how to deal with winter + bad weather, how to price for a vehicle & just any general advice for an aspiring detailer looking to turn this passion into something :)
Hello I couldn't give all that advice in one comment but I have a business playlist that I'm adding content to on a regular basis and happy to make more
Hi, Did you begin your valeting career with a water tank and pressure washer in the van, or did you find most customers have an outside tap accessible?
Hello I began my valeting business with a pedal bike and a watering can. Took me 6 months before I could even drive so made do with trailer and watering can and a bucket
I always use the 2 bucket method but dont use snowfoam due time fucking about back and forward like you said. As you said if you running a business time is money. Used to use the flanky but every car is now dried with drying towel (unless its covered in rust its a decision is made on the day and verys from vehicle to vehicle) Mini valets £30 - £35 pending on type of vehicle and than additional cost for dirtier vehicles. I also say to them to try and have there car as clear and empty as possible.
@@epicautomotivedetailing totally agree on that. Everyone runs there business different yes try do it as safe as possible getting as much crap off before the contact wash. As long the job is done to the standard you set out for each and individual valet which is the most important part.
Coming from the North (Finland), my winter to Summer set up varies also to speed things up. I do the pre wash, rinse and ONR to get a wash and shine in one step. At - 20 deg C on average in winter, who the hell wants to do 2 bucket method. Funny enough I started all that years and years ago and it just changed. Its not laziness, dont get me wrong, its smartness. At 50€ a mini valet is setting you back 25-40% on overheads so you just cant keep severing customers with a red carpet cleaning set up....they get my great smile instead :)
@@epicautomotivedetailing cheers mate! Yes I would honestly swap it for a valet in Spain instead :) Bloody right horrible in Jan when its chucking it down with snow and water is freezing on the panel before you wipe it away. Still all that fresh air, cant complain. As to a vid, sorry mate, I am pretty terrible at doing videos.
When I use one bucket I use extra soap because I hose the mitt after two selections at a time, It still takes a but not as long as the two bucket method.
You speak the truth simple, 9.5/10 cars are absoutkey covered in swirls marks so who cares about 2bm? Aslong as you know you have removed all debris of the vehicle then no problems
Great video.. I've spent hours detailing when I should really just be valeting, I will definitely be taking a lot of this on.. I just have one question.. Should you not at least rinse the car off with a hose/pressure washer to remove surface dirt and also to rinse the TFR off the lower 3rd of the car body before the contact wash? Thanks again for very informative video.
Hello mate ,yes you should sorry sometimes video sequences get shortened but to be honest the majority of tfr is washed off before the contact wash Stage
@@epicautomotivedetailing Nice one, I actually watched your video again after I posted my comment and did notice you using the pressure washer.. I must have blinked the first time lol.. Anyway thanks again buddy, I've subscribed to your channel and requested to join the fb group.. I'm sure I will learn a lot from your channel and reduce my time valeting cars and save myself time and money.
Great video as normal David. I’ve got that Jaguar in the same colour. What products do you recommend to make the paintwork really pop and glossy? Thanks
What about a TFR, rinse and then rinseless wash with 5 towels for a quick valet? Can use it on wheels, paint and glass and safter than a 1 bucket method and only uses 2 products... Just a thought?
Q. bought from Temu Lance-Splitter so can Foam Cannon and then rinse off with a switch not unconnected re-connect, etc etc Used these, tad heavy on forearm..... Unsure a game changer or a ZERO changer? Bought 2, one per site £12
If you want to watch more car cleaning business related videos then do check out our Business Playlist!
Love video
This is incredible. Finally somebody has the guts to speak the truth about car valeting. Its not all about sticking the car under a bright light looking for scratches. Thank you so much for sticking up for the British Car valeting industry! 💪
Thanks for that. I can't believe how many people have related to this video I just want to help others 👍🇬🇧
I've told you my views in private but this is 100% spot on... To do this the way some 'TH-cam detailers' imply they should be done simply isn't realistic for people trying to do this professionally. Not every car needs an award winning finish and if everyone wanted that then roadside car washes wouldn't exist. Sometimes expectations have to align with pricing!
Epic video Dave 😉👍🏼👍🏼😁
Thanks my friend. From now on my content is going to be more relatable to the valeter and not the Detailer 👌. This is a passion I love what I do
Hi just found your channel I use to valet 25 yrs ago and glad to see someone can see the difference between detailing , valeting, and car cleaning . Ps thought it was only us old blokes who called it a flunkie 😂🤣
You Just found me lol, Where have you been mate??? 😂. You gotta love the flunky! Thanks for watching mate and welcome to the madness
You’ve hit the nail firmly on the head. There’s a big difference between car cleaners, valeters, and detailers. There’s also got to be a difference in the cost, the level of “clean”, and the expectations. Communicate with the customer clearly about what they are getting for their money and there shouldn’t be too many issues.
For the weekend warrior it doesn’t matter if I spend 4 hours tarty about “detailing” my car, it’s a different story when you’re doing it for a living.
I’m not watching your videos because I’m going to valet anyone else’s car, but I am learning a lot from your site on cleaning and maintaining my own car. You explain things so well and give really useful advice on what products to use and how to use them. Really helpful, well made videos. Thank you very much for posting such useful stuff! Best of luck to you
Thank you very much. Appreciate it 🙏
I"m in Southern California. You are exactly right. So many buy into the hype with 2 bucket methods and foam cannons creating more work for themselves. Time is money. What you did here applies to nearly every car except those that went through mud. Detailing has been around before everyone here was born. They weren't using 2 bucket methods and foam cannons and still produced great results. Majority of customers just want their cars clean and maybe a wax. Great video
Thanks mate. Glad it made sense 👍👏 thanks for watching
Truthful and helpful. Not every customer is bothered about swirls, just a clean looking car. Well done for being honest👍
Thanks Andrew. was hard video to get the point across but greatful you understood the meaning behind it
@@epicautomotivedetailing you nailed it 👌
I'm hooked and you've totally inspired me After this I subscribed to you channel. Now I'm writing my business plan and getting organised whilst my job is still paying the rent. Who knew a bloke on TH-cam would show me my next chapter. Thanks buddy
Hello Micky that's kind of you to say. I have a business playlist with ideas about starting up and go through what it's really like running a car valeting business. Thank you 🙏
Finally someone from the UK giving us business advice. Everything you said will help me. I felt the same but was worried because people get so obsessed with the 2 bucket method. Nice to see someone out there with a camera instead of hiding their garage 😂
pleasure happy to help anyone!
I’m just starting out/ trying to get going and this is honestly really really going to help me out massively. Love the vidz 🤙🏻
Hello Thank you and well done mate. Glad to hear you starting out. These videos are all a bit different. I have a business playlist that may be able to help you and have start up videos coming very soon to add to that!
I agree. Since I came across his channel I've watched a ton of his videos. Even made a business instagram for my own mobile detail and followed him haha
Try find a lorry company get good money for MOT wash
“He had more accidents more than Prince Philip”🤣🤣🤣🤣pmsl
The rubbish I come out with 😅
Too funny😂
What a load of sense coming out of this video! Not even being sarcastic. Communication and being organised is key.
Thanks very much my friend. Just telling it like it is 👍
Brilliant - even though I'm not a professional I can feel my OCD getting better!
Lol glad they help mate. I prefer watching car cleaning videos to actually doing the job myself 😂
Utterly brilliant reality check, be organised and set expectations for yourself and the customer. Thank you bringing the flunky out of retirement. I got one for the car windows at your recommendation and can honestly say it does a better job, out side and in.
Would be interesting if you did a short vid on things you absolutely would not do (to a car), might be a bit obvious, but anyway, Cheers David
Great idea Simon, that's something I can feature. I got a car potentially lined up for Halloween. Not got it yet but made an offer to the owner as it's probably the most famous, iconic film car ever made so praying I get the gig next week
Excellent video David. Interesting distinction between the driveway detailer spending all day Sunday cleaning his pride and joy to the guy trying to earn a decent living 💵💵 Keep the content coming mate 👍
Thank you my friend. Happy to share light on every aspect of car detailing & valeting
I think you hit the nail right on the head there with a real word and sensible take on what is after all a business. And business exist to make money, otherwise your ‘buying your work’ what’s the point in that? Great channel, keep up the excellent work, liked and subscribed!👍
Thank you so much. Glad to help 😁
This is a reality struck on all our faces. Good job for speaking the truth.
Thank you
Just adding car valeting into the services for my cleaning business. Been stressing out trying to workout what to include and what not to include. Great video.
Thanks very much. I have a load of business videos if you check out the business playlist. It's full of info that may help you
Try make a service list and add bits like wash and dry ££ then same but add polish ££ bit more and keep going
Excellent straightforward advice. You are running a business and customers can often want 'something for nothing' so to speak - not appreciating just what is involved in the job. Ensuring customers know what they get for what price point is critical. Fairness then all round. Peter
Thanks Peter appreciate the feedback
Being mobile and literally having just started up,this is appreciated
nice one well done mate
@@epicautomotivedetailing Thank you buddy. Started following you on instagram as well🙂
Amazing to watch honest real life situation .
It's a hard job to be in and making money from it is tough especially when most videos out there show you super clean workshops with more lights than a dentist and a car that's barely a month old nice to see what happens in the real world
Who hasn't seen a flash car in a hand car wash ? Some people like you say just want clean top vid Dave...
Thank you that's nice of you to say. From now on I'll be keeping it real 👌🇬🇧
If you cleaned my car like this it would break my heart lol.
That's why I would pay more to get the extra detailing.
You get what you pay for , and you are trying to make a living , not run a charity...
Spot on man 👍
Yeah its a bit of reality check video I set up. So i know loads of people who actually work like this but have no choice because the money just isnt there for them so hopefully it reaches out to the right people
Totally agree with everything you have said. The trick is to know when to stop. Great vid 👍
Thanks Matt, agree the perfectionist inside your mind is the biggest enemy
Epic. So much truth spoken. I'm an enthusiast do it part time. And how many times have I felt exactly what you describe. I always do too much. Then get demotivated. Takes a long time to do complete a thorough clean and but the reality of a fair cost of that time is different.
Yeah mate it can be demotivating sadly but that's the nature of the business. Summer is when the good times roll
You obviously have your own methods and techniques, but if that’s the way you want to do them, then why should you get stuck. You’re doing a great hob by showing young entrepreneurs on how to start out a business and showing them YOUR methods (which have got you where you are now) so people should all be liking your videos and asking for more videos to be put up. Keep up the good work mate, if only their were more good hearted people like yourself on this planet. Take care and all the best.
Thanks for the videos man 👌😉
Thanks so much. Definitely like to show people how it works in the real world. Definitely not an easy job
@@epicautomotivedetailing I hope everyone is like me and greatly appreciates your videos, and likes and subs 👌🏻👍😁
@@blackwatch9803 Thank you very much im filming my price list video today so will hopefully be live within 24 hours
@@epicautomotivedetailing Good luck mate, I hope it all goes well and to plan.
Nice one and I agree, keep your business head on.
Many owners just aren't knowledgeable and wouldn't even notice if you got the car perfect. They're probably going to change the car every couple of years anyway.
Keep it up.
Absolutely honestly the richer clients care less than the rest of them so sometimes this method is totally acceptable! Thank you for watching Philip
I've just started working at a professional business and I was taught to use the chammys and in my opinion there amazing they get any dirt you have missed and great for people starting out for that reason
Hi mate the Chamois leathers are pretty bad for paintwork in terms of risking potential scratching it wouldn't really show after the odd clean. For luxury cars and valets yes use towels but average Joe cars definitely not worth it unless they pay what your worth
Definitely providing a full valet at a mini valet price currently. Watching this video has made it so clear! Changing my ways ASAP!
Thanks mate appreciate it
Just went tru that yesterday with 2 cars. They paid for a regular in n out wash and interior plus wax and my detailed instincts kicked in n I ended up taking 3 hours on each. Great video btw!
Thank you Dario . Well done mate 🙏
Great video you defo talk sense as I'm a valeter myself for over 20 years its great to see that you know how to do it properly but not as well as each car and customer are different makes sense it's all about time and and using your experience to change from car to car. It can't aways be perfect in the real world and even your quick clean will be ten times better then your local hand wash site with ten men with dirty clothes
Thank you mate. I'm glad it made sense. Not everyone sees it. Sometimes you can't do a perfect job because you won't earn any money 💰
Perfect attitude!!
Tidy and organize !!
Time is time!!
Money is money!!
As the owner of a new car I needed this.
If you got a new car and you love it then 2 bucket is recommended for best results. But it's just something that serves a purpose then one bucket is fine 👍
@@epicautomotivedetailing going for the 2.
I do find it very hard when doing a basic clean to find a stop point for what is acceptable and where I should stop. For me I always want perfect but this isn’t cost affective. I think I’ll def use the TFR method more going forward on unprotected cars
You gotta do what you gotta do. You can still get great results with tfr
Tfr?
@@salutetahuna2741 traffic film remover
Makes total economic sense, well done fella.
Thank you. So many nice people here in the comments section today 🙏🎉
Can always offer additional things as extras on top of the standard price for a basic mini valet. A lot of mobile guys use the upselling approach.
Using TFR as opposed to snow foam easily sheds 10 mins off a mini valet.
You can always offer a premium mini valet whereby you use snow foam and charge accordingly for the additional time, cost of product etc
Content is a total breath of fresh air compared to the usual detailer videos you see online
Hello Sean, wow that's pretty amazing of you to say. If you're new to the channel yes I've done some videos all about upsells and got some great business video's if you check out my business playlist you will find all sorts of information. If you're into that of course lol. Thanks mate 👍
Wow this is mind blowing for me you're using minimal product yet it looks like you gave more value for you and the car you are cleaning great video
Thank you very much. Keep it simple. These days people over complicate things
Really informative & down to earth video, especially for someone like myself who's a detailer just starting out
Thanks mate. I'll keep on making videos like this
Spot on video. To many videos show full on complete detailing. A basic wash is just that. Time is money at the end off the day. I will be this year trying to start my on little moblie business. Currently working out the most cost effective products. Played around last year with a £50 quid budget to start. Managed to upgrading my pressure washer, get a henry hover, and restock chemiclas with the profits. Your videos have been a massive help so thank you. Next for me is basic chemical set, steam cleaner, and a wet vac for the extras i could be charging. For me personally Bilt hamber autofoam and surfx are both amazing value for cost performance.
Your in luck. I have a video coming up which breaks down the cost of everything you need and I look at cheap alternatives for people getting started 👌. Thanks for watching mate
I'm really glad I watched this,he is right in the fact that u have to make money,
and be clear to the customer about how they want it done ✅.
Cars don't take 5 minutes to do,you could spend 6hours on a full clan Al over.great video
Thanks Mate appreciate it
Top vid mate. It’s exactly what I’m trying to get across in my own videos.
My problem is I take the comments to heart so you feel an obligation to do it “right”......... but what is right ?? Lol
Thanks again and stay safe.
Hello mate. Its a nightmare some people will only point out mistakes and never point out the fact you spend hours on end to try and make it. I respect anyone for trying. The problem is the more bigger you become the more people attack so you got to just switch off to it. I get about 5 negative comments per day and just hide the user and over time it has become the norm for me so its not as bad as it was as its something i just get used to now
Excellent video Dave, you made loads of extremely valid points. Key point is to always value yourself and your time. Life has taught me the more you do for people, the more they expect. Regarding the 2 bucket method. Honestly for all car washing ditch those buckets completely. A much quicker way is to fill a spray bottle with diluted car shampoo 10:1 and use a hose to rinse the wash mitt or pad. It's so much quicker and uses less product and your rinsing the wash mitt with clean fresh water.
Thanks mate appreciate the kind words as always. Haven't tried that method yet but always up for it
@@epicautomotivedetailingThank you Dave for putting watchable and useful content out there. Honestly Dave, if you have outside tap access the spray bottle method saves so much time rather than fannying about with buckets and grit guards.
This location in the video had a hot tap so I filled that tank up with hot water like a bath lol
To be fair you only get what you pay for. A £35 valet should be no more than an hour or so. Synthetic chamois is fine as i have one on standby! I don't valet cars for a living but i am a strict weekend warrior!! I am in the cleaning business so time is money any extra should never be given for free and your right about keeping the client informed if any area needs extra attention. Great vid david as ever, really appreciate your tips on car care.
Thanks Robert 🙏 always appreciate the support my friend
I have been having problems coming up with the right price especially in relation to time, on one side I don't want harm on the car, but the two bucket method honestly takes time even on an mid range SUV, in a third world country like mine I still have to explain myself a lot before the clients understand, even then I hardly get a call because I seem expensive, so this tutorial helps a lot. I will now be able to have a flexible price list that also doesn't frustrate my time per vehicle.
Where are you from my friend?
Date, brill vid as usual. I do this as a hobby but use the 1 bucket method but have a shampoo solution of 50 ml to 450 ml of water, bucket with grit guard, get the mott wet, then spray the solution onto the mitt before you apply, then scrub against grit guard and rinse and onwards, works well and saves so much on my view
Brilliant well done Phil. I know many people love the 2 bucket method but my own car is a dump so I don't use 2 bucket method on my own car. As long as it looks good to you that's all that matters 😃
Great video. I’m a valeter in the south coast and this is exactly my method. Great job
Nice one. No shame in this method. I think people need to wake up and stop having a go at valeters and realise they can't do full snow foam 2 bucket etc standards for a £20 clean 👏 power to you! 🙏
Mate your so funny! I see this channel growing so much. You get to the point, share some amazing knowledge, plus throw in jokes! Keep it up!!
Thanks mate. Wish everyone was like you. I get a lot of stick for these videos but people fail to understand that it is just a free video 😬
@@epicautomotivedetailing that's the problem with people they will never be happy. You give them your hand they bloody want your elbow. Nothing is ever enough. But carry on with what you doing beacuse end of the day if they think they can do it better why don't they show the world how to do it properly. Truth is these people are all talk. Or as we say keyboard bull*****😂
@@moseedat Thank you mate. it makes me happy so i wont stop ever!
Really good and informative video. I’ve recently got a really good car and wanted to find out how the professionals cleaned cars. I’ve never been into cars a lot and never cleaned them much but when I have I’ve used a bucket of warm water with washing up liquid, made sense to me, but of course it looked crap. So I used a good car shampoo, still didn’t look good. So I given up...
Until a few days ago getting my 19 plate car. Trouble is I’m on the side of a busy road. So It was interesting that you say about the 1 or 2 bucket method. But surely just giving a dirty car a rinse off would take maybe a couple of buckets. Or do you pressure wash it first?
Also I have been a self employed gardener for a long time now so I’m looking this from how I usually do pricing work and my regular rounds. My concern is the cost of materials and the time it takes to get from customer to customer. I’m amazed that you don’t need to charge more than you do. I would be really interested to know how much you are aiming at per hour. I’m guessing/hoping around £20 to £25? What you are doing is hard work! You really need to make it pay and pay well enough to cover overheads inc cleaning materials and travelling etc and of course the van depreciation, taxes, insurances etc. Ultimately giving the quality service you are aiming for the customer I’m sure would be happy paying the rate for that.
Hello Edward id say £25 per hour is a fair rate but you need to make sure you can make it a profitable business. It is hard graft and it takes something special to keep momentum going
Super duper advice man, well done and gosh don't you video makers work hard! Must take flipping ages to edit and compile. I use a damp microfiber with my bilt hamber auto wash for interior windows, then a dry microfiber to wipe over. Works a treat and then use the solution for the exterior as usual. Wax on, wax off!
Thanks Very much i appreciate your kind words
As a pure customer i would like to add my own view, This is exactly what i would expect from a Mini valet, just a basic clean up of the daily driver school run bus.
Your competitors are not the other detailers, its the drive through car washes staffed by lots of guys, you know the ones.
I have a kia ceed, its a newish company car and i pay £30 at the "drive through" they do the tfr pretreat, snowfoam ( i suspect thats more for looks as its on for about a minute), hand wash and glass/vaccum cleaning. and its a conveyor belt system, quick easy and usually "good enough"
What i expect from a home mini valet is similar, nothing special, BUT... more attention to detail, nothing been missed, windows lowered to get the rim of the glass, essentially the same job, but better.
Will i pay £80 ( which most are asking for) hell no. its a family work hack the only reason someone is going to look at it for more than 5 seconds is if they are going to pinch it.
Thanks for sharing that's good feedback for others watching
Great, somebody that is actually realistic about the job. Far too many internet detailers that think every 25 quid valet should be done to detail standards. The simple truth is that the majority of customers just want a clean car and dont know what a swirl is.. Only thing id add is one of the cheap rinse aids as they are so fast and easy to apply and cost pence per application and make drying much easier whilst giving a nicer finish but thats just my opinion. Out of interest, how many of these do you do on an average day?
Hi John thank you. It depends because my main focus is doing valets up from this but I like to do these ones in an hour at tops
Well not being mobile, I'm tackling things in a different way. And constantly thinking outside the box for solutions, and it's great your content shows all the problems perfectly. My technique for the wash is two big buckets and when it's quiet I clean the MIT's out as much as possible or chuck them in a quick wash machine cycle .. there isn't really anyone doing content on location valeting or regular washbay & as you can imagine I want to do it better than other places I see. I atleast don't use the big yellow sponges, I also prefer to have someone with me on a high pressure steam gun and blasting out the hard to reach areas, wich is great for busy days or just myself when it's less busy, that cost varies with run costs bt yeah inovations are where I'm at.. I know this is something I want to go forward with, I'm not an expert tho I do know how to get the job done.. any feedback greatly appreciated, I know I'm doing things a bit differently
thanks so much for getting in touch. This Content is a bit old now So i have a brand new channel which is straight to the point. It may help you 😀 th-cam.com/channels/RcnBHHmSSoCVddBC3bI25Q.htmlvideos
Best guy on here,learning loads of things thanks mate
Thank you 🙏
Absolute class video! I'm just starting out, and when it comes to car cleaning the perfectionist in me comes out which a number of people have noticed and want me to clean their cars, however like you say, I end up shooting myself in the foot by charging for a mini valet but doing far more. Just done a car today and ngl it took me HOURS!! Definitely going to be taking away these tips! Any advice for carpets? Have been hoovering and shampooing them over and over again but just takes so long. Cheers!
Brilliant glad you could take something from this video. With all best intentions we all want to do our best but if the client pays little then it gets hard to get motivated
Hi Dave, loving your video's, packed full of real world advice and fun to watch. I'm a bit of a weekend warrior and do friends car's for free to practice getting it right. Been using Meguires mainly but have now jumped onto the Yum range after watching your vids. Thinking of starting up for real now after watching your channel 👍👍👍
Thanks mate sorry for late reply. Only just saw this
I applaud your honest viewpoint.
Just curious as to your opinion on the hand car washes that seem to be popping up everywhere !!
They offer a quick 'in & out' for around £10, which basically covers the procedure you explained here.
Do you ever have this mentioned when you quote for jobs & what is your response?
Thank you. If I'm honest they have done mobile valeters a big favour. They clean all the crap cars no valeter wants. The thing is the majority are not skilled enough. The personal touch is everything
All makes sense....I do a 1bucket on my own car nowadays, hardly ever any dirt at the bottom...maybe two bucket for dirty cars, and depending on time of year...doesn’t take that much longer really imo. Btw did u blast out the shuts with the pressure washer didn’t see that bit? Good video tho keep’em coming 👍
Hello Chris yes I cut footage short to keep things fresh. If that makes sense. So it stops it all being the Same throughout. Next video coming in few days 👌
I'm just doing some research .. Good blog mate, i like the way people describe 2 buckets as a method, similar to a scientist .. 🤣
lol agreed mate, think it makes them feel better
Awesome mate, I'm just planning on starting & this has helped a lot 👌 The main thing I'm stuck on is how much water you need to carry in the van & how to get the pressure from the water tank to the power washer 🤔 Cheers mate!
Hello so K series pressure washers are all able to draw water from a tank provided the tank is gravity fed. So water tank above the washer so the weight of water presses down if that makes sense
I always say you get what you pay for and by the way brilliant channel mate keep the good work up and keep safe
Thank you Martin that's so nice of you to say. I've got a very special video going out at Halloween which may put a smile on everyone's face
so inspiring and helpful for beginners - you're the man
Thanks very much sorry this is old video wasn't my best back then
@@epicautomotivedetailing time goes on ...
Hi Dave, awesome video,doing mini valets you got to be specific about what's involved,2 things on here I do myself,1)1bucket method 😔,2) use a leather but I use two separate mitts for top and bottom of the car.but it comes up well.
As long as you're happy doing it how you want then that's all that matters. These days too many people put the bar so high that it's not practical for everyday people. What car do you have? Have you tried the flunky yet?
@@epicautomotivedetailing I have a 2016 Meriva B Life,no I haven’t tried the flunky.?
@@stevenjones19-m8i they are so quick and easy. No arm strain at all
Still on the stage about thinking about get my own up and running. Subscribed as you've made me want to do it more and get out of the contracted hours from an employer! Can you get a full mini valet done in an hour?
Mini valet yes provided you have the right strategy in place
Awesome video I'm thinking on starting a car valet where I stay as there is nothing here the closest car valet is about 68km away. Could you please send me the products that you use thank you for sharing your video
Hello Thank you. I list every single product in every video my friend all links below
Great video Dave, I can definitely relate to this as I also run my own mobile valeting business (12 years now)
Sometimes you just don't have time to mess around especially when you get to a job and customer says I need the car shortly 😂. Keep up the good work 👍
Thank you mate. Well done on 12 years. Bet you got some stories to tell? If you got anything interesting or that disgusting I may even share it. I'm thinking about making a video on valeters worst experiences
Thanks mate, definitely had my fair share of dirty ones as I'm sure you have too. That would be a good video. Recently started insulating my van before the frost starts freezing up the chemicals again 😂
@@torque2695 yeh the winter is a nightmare but i know a guy on here who lives in norway and works in -20 so its not too bad lol
There is a price for everything , people must understand it . There is a saying in my country, it is better to lie down at home for free than working for free . You gotta retrive what you invested and get the profit out of it ...
very good point thanks for watching
Which TFR remover and also alloys that are black with dirt what product? 🙏thanks for the vid 😊
I’m not a pro and spend hours detailing my cars but when I do family vehicles, I don’t bother with two buckets etc. What a waste on cars that aren’t meticulously looked after and I’m doing for free. My daughter for example couldn’t care less and just wants a clean car. A vacuumed interior makes her day!
Very good way to look at it. Glad I'm not the only one lol. Thanks for watching
Epic information. While we don’t use the term ‘valet’ in Australia, your point is well taken. Communicate clearly with your client and make sure they pay for the service you provide. My problem is I can’t imagine not doing the wheel barrels. Also, I never use 2 bucket method. I use 5 mitts in my wash bucket and use a fresh, clean mitt face for each panel working top to bottom, discarding the used mitt into a second empty bucket. Clients love the amount of care shown. Lloyd
Hello thank you for watching. That's an alternative method even I've not considered. How do u do cope in the summer with the heat?
Epic Car Show Detailing while I’m use to the heat 90% of our summer days are only around 29°C-32°C. I use a 3’x3’ marquee if I’m outside in the middle of the day or plan the detail to be inside the car during the middle of the day. I usually consume about 3 litres of water too. Lloyd
@@indetailcarcaresolutions3770 respect to you. In the UK we just take a day off if the sun comes out as its so rare these days.
Epic Car Show Detailing ha ha. If I did that, I’d rarely work! I’m actually a high school teacher transitioning to retirement. I’m a car nut and want to stay active in retirement and it’s a great way to exercise my back after spinal surgery. All your tips are appreciated as I’d like to make a bit of pocket money along the way.
@@indetailcarcaresolutions3770 Amazing well done mate. So the teacher is becoming the student. I do feel blessed. Man hope your back doesnt cause you too many problems as car cleaning can be a real pain the back and the shoulders
Hi Dave. You make some interesting points. I have been valeting & detailing for 25 years. I would like to chat with you soon. Mark
Hi mark yes please get in touch on Instagram if you can 🙏
Thanks Dave for your response. I will be in touch soon. Happy valeting mark
I only use on bucket but two washmits. Wash the top areas first with one and the lower areas with the other. Rocker panels and lower rear area last.
I'm going to try this, I feel it may half my valeting time.
Brilliant if it's speed your going for then this is the fastest way 👍🇬🇧
Bit late on this one, but this video is perfect and has made me decide to add a “mini valet” to my services, what wheel cleaner are you using in this video? I use incinerate on my bigger price ticket cleans but wondering if theres a cheaper alternative for a mini valet ontop of a tfr
I actually mainly use Incinerate nowadays anyway
@@epicautomotivedetailing yeah incinerate is my go to, mainly at 10:1, although I have had to use it neat before, which wasnt fun haha! Need to mix up a 5:1 bottle aswell really, gonna give their “big red” tfr a go too for mini valets
Well done mate,your contents are amazing .myself I’ve got hand carwash business the best chemical sprayer is IK ones they are best quality .I’ve had most of the sprayers but they are not as good as IK.
Thanks Paul
Hi good info there .
I can see a few ways you can improve on time. Tfr door shut then jet,leather off is 1
Also do door panels first then windows. This way if u slip or anything like u don't have to do windows again
Brilliant video. I am hoping to go into mobile valeting myself. And this has shown me alot already. Just one question so a mini valet is just a basic clean with no car wax or polish on the outside. What would you class it as to your customers if they wanted a mini valet inside and out and a machine wax or wash and wax on the outside. Thanks for your information I will be following you from now on 👍 and what's the stuff you are spraying on the bottom of the car passenger doors
Hello thank you for watching. The spray on the bottom is a tfr which breaks down the dirt which I prefer over snow foam of your going for speed. So I would charge machine polish as an extra. But then I wouldn't Machine polish without offering a clay bar so there is lots of possibilities to charge extra
@@epicautomotivedetailing thanks for your reply I have just added a clay bar to my basket on eBay to try on my own car 👍
You are correct we can’t use 2 bucket method as we have to go the client, fuel, chemicals, washing our mits etc, however someone having a £25 valet doesn’t care about those issues, because they can go to the local car wash and get the same service for £20 so increasing costs although essential doesn’t mean you’ll get the business
you need a vlog on how to aproach the customer and explain what they get for the money even though most just say clean it
100% mate will add that to the list
I really like this 'zero bullshitery' video. I think the industry has gone a bit mad with all the fancy pants chemicals and equipment. Its al.ost like the DETAILER POLICE will come round if you don't use the 2 3 4 or 5 bucket method.
Great video.
@@dalydetailz2120 Thank you mate appreciate it.
@@dalydetailz2120 its basicley down to what the customer wants if they want to pay out thousands for it but most just want it cleaned and left up to them to get it done
Wonderful insight video can you please also give a guide or two on how you push on the marketing side
Thanks mate yes next week I will have few more. Try my business playlist
@@epicautomotivedetailing thanks i am going through it as we speak rilly informative thnks a lot
What about doing a pre wash, and then a rinseless wash with ONR? Much quicker, and cleans great
That would be interesting to feature that method in a video thank you
A little thing I do on pea shingle and gravel drives. I use rubber mats under the tyres to avoid extra dirt or worse still damage to lower body or wheels.
Very good point mate 👌
Welcome.
It’s true so so important to be organised saves so much time and looks so professional.
Check out my TH-cam van set up videos.
Where are you working from??
@@viperautovalet4479 south of UK my friend 🇬🇧
Great video, thanks for sharing your experience and for being so honest.
Hello mate, thank you for watching. I think these days people get over complicated with detailing and products. Customers always think differently to how we would
This is a really good video, speaking the truth 💯
Thank you 🙏
This channel is so under-rated
Thank you for noticing 🙏 I'm pretty new to TH-cam so sadly it's not quite working yet in my favour. My next video tomorrow is the biggest one yet
@@epicautomotivedetailing Oh brilliant. I'm sure if you keep working at it it will come eventuallty. I find these all really helpful. I am wanting to start my own detailing / washing business but I am really just trying to get some ideas and knowledge on the best ways to do so. I've just watched your video on how to get started and have been taking notes and hopefully ill be able to get going soon. :)
@@WingsOfNovaaris nice one well done mate. I got a business playlist that may help
@@epicautomotivedetailing Oh definitely. Ill take a look. I cant find anything that is more satisfying than a lovely polished cleaned car. Thats why i want to do it as a career.
finaly there is a god im in the exact valeting bracket myself cut past the bullshit and get real and this is it thank you
Thank you Russell 🙏
I have helped a friend detail his car a few times over the year and we've had the idea of starting our own business for mobile car detailing. We work full-time but are happy to make it a side hustle on the weekends and even make it our full-time job in the future if all goes well. Neither of us have any experience in business or detailing cars other than the few times we've done it on personal vehicle nor have we ever had training. Do you think it's a good idea and could you give any advice regarding: certificate/training required, insurance,how to begin the business, what's needed for the business, how to deal with winter + bad weather, how to price for a vehicle & just any general advice for an aspiring detailer looking to turn this passion into something :)
Hello I couldn't give all that advice in one comment but I have a business playlist that I'm adding content to on a regular basis and happy to make more
@@epicautomotivedetailing Okay no worries, I'll be sure to watch them all
I have what I use for the contact wash in the foam gun and only use one bucket with clean water to rinse off the mitt. Super quick method.
Hi mate what shampoo do you choose via foam lance and what dilution as that is indeed alot faster time wise
Hi,
Did you begin your valeting career with a water tank and pressure washer in the van, or did you find most customers have an outside tap accessible?
Hello I began my valeting business with a pedal bike and a watering can. Took me 6 months before I could even drive so made do with trailer and watering can and a bucket
I always use the 2 bucket method but dont use snowfoam due time fucking about back and forward like you said. As you said if you running a business time is money.
Used to use the flanky but every car is now dried with drying towel (unless its covered in rust its a decision is made on the day and verys from vehicle to vehicle)
Mini valets £30 - £35 pending on type of vehicle and than additional cost for dirtier vehicles.
I also say to them to try and have there car as clear and empty as possible.
Yeh I only use flunky if it's a real cheap valet that the owner doesn't car about too much. It's an interesting topic because its often frowned upon
@@epicautomotivedetailing totally agree on that. Everyone runs there business different yes try do it as safe as possible getting as much crap off before the contact wash.
As long the job is done to the standard you set out for each and individual valet which is the most important part.
@@LothianValet couldn't of put it better myself 👌
Coming from the North (Finland), my winter to Summer set up varies also to speed things up. I do the pre wash, rinse and ONR to get a wash and shine in one step. At - 20 deg C on average in winter, who the hell wants to do 2 bucket method. Funny enough I started all that years and years ago and it just changed. Its not laziness, dont get me wrong, its smartness.
At 50€ a mini valet is setting you back 25-40% on overheads so you just cant keep severing customers with a red carpet cleaning set up....they get my great smile instead :)
Brave man that's some serious cold weather my friend. You should do some videos I'd watch any day. It's so fascinating
@@epicautomotivedetailing cheers mate! Yes I would honestly swap it for a valet in Spain instead :) Bloody right horrible in Jan when its chucking it down with snow and water is freezing on the panel before you wipe it away. Still all that fresh air, cant complain. As to a vid, sorry mate, I am pretty terrible at doing videos.
@@declanflaherty8958 Ill have to come out there and film you in a video then lol. Thanks for sharing that im not sure i could work in those conditions
Love this great video. Lots of rich information to digest!
Thank you
When I use one bucket I use extra soap because I hose the mitt after two selections at a time, It still takes a but not as long as the two bucket method.
You speak the truth simple,
9.5/10 cars are absoutkey covered in swirls marks so who cares about 2bm? Aslong as you know you have removed all debris of the vehicle then no problems
Thank you very much. Nice to be noticed 🙏
Great video.. I've spent hours detailing when I should really just be valeting, I will definitely be taking a lot of this on..
I just have one question..
Should you not at least rinse the car off with a hose/pressure washer to remove surface dirt and also to rinse the TFR off the lower 3rd of the car body before the contact wash?
Thanks again for very informative video.
Hello mate ,yes you should sorry sometimes video sequences get shortened but to be honest the majority of tfr is washed off before the contact wash Stage
@@epicautomotivedetailing Nice one, I actually watched your video again after I posted my comment and did notice you using the pressure washer.. I must have blinked the first time lol..
Anyway thanks again buddy, I've subscribed to your channel and requested to join the fb group.. I'm sure I will learn a lot from your channel and reduce my time valeting cars and save myself time and money.
Great video as normal David.
I’ve got that Jaguar in the same colour. What products do you recommend to make the paintwork really pop and glossy? Thanks
Im only using few brands now , Yum cars , Autoglym, meguiars as im sticking with what works for me. A good ceramic spray adds nice gloss
What about a TFR, rinse and then rinseless wash with 5 towels for a quick valet? Can use it on wheels, paint and glass and safter than a 1 bucket method and only uses 2 products... Just a thought?
I did this years ago and is very hard work NCCC at Ford in Bedford and local customers took 3/4 hours for £50 each car
it sure is but having siad that with the right kit it does make life so much easier
Can you send the video link on when or why we use the one or two bucket methods please. Thanks
How to Wash Your car for BEGINNERS | Easy Step by Step Guide
Q. bought from Temu Lance-Splitter so can Foam Cannon and then rinse off with a switch not unconnected re-connect, etc etc
Used these, tad heavy on forearm..... Unsure a game changer or a ZERO changer? Bought 2, one per site £12
Great video Dave. Especially the TFR being used on alot of areas.
Thank you. Tfr not as bad as everyone says honestly