A squeegee is a useful tool for applying vinyl wrap smoothly and evenly over the surface of a vehicle, helping achieve a professional finish where graphics are not warped and air bubbles are not present.

However, whilst it can be extremely helpful for a convenient application process, a squeegee can also act as a slight obstacle if not cleaned regularly. If neglected, a buildup of dirt and residue can then transfer to the vinyl, hindering it from looking as good as it can possibly be.

Luckily, this outcome can be easily avoided when you follow our recommended cleaning practices, both before and after wrapping your vehicle wrap vinyl. With these outlined cleaning steps and tips, you can ensure that your squeegee is up to the task of seamlessly applying wrap to your vehicle, greatly enhancing its appearance and professionalism.

Why Cleaning Matters

When dirt, dust, or other debris accumulate on your squeegee, there’s a great chance that at least some of it will transfer onto the vinyl during application. This can possibly lead to tiny air bubbles that are difficult to remove. As well as this, the surface of the vinyl could be scratched or prevented from adhering properly due to interfering particles. Even just one of these things might stop your vinyl wrap from looking its very best.

Recommended Cleaning Products

The cleaning solution you use will depend on the type of squeegees you have. For felt squeegees, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals and opt for mild soaps and non-abrasive cleaners. For rubber squeegees, however, you can use isopropyl alcohol to remove adhesive residue and grime.

Recommended Tools

Microfibre cloths are great for drying, as they are gentle on surfaces, helping keep your squeegees in working order. For residue that won’t budge with regular lint-free cloths, soft brushes are the next available option, as they can offer more scrubbing power.

Cleaning Your Squeegee Before Wrapping

Starting with a clean squeegee means that there is nothing on it that will compromise the placement of your vehicle wrap, leading to a smooth application and a desirable result.

Cleaning Steps:

  1. Inspect for Visible Debris

Hold the squeegee under bright light to check for dust, debris, or residue, ensuring the edges and corners are also looked at.

  1. Wipe with a Lint-Free Cloth

Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently remove surface dirt. Avoid using any tissues or paper towels, as these can leave fibres behind that can then be trapped under the wrap.

  1. Wash with Warm, Soapy Water

Mix mild soap with water in a bucket, then submerge the squeegee and gently scrub it with your fingers or a soft sponge.

  1. Dry with a Microfibre Towel

Pat the squeegee dry with a microfibre towel, making certain that no moisture remains on the surface or edges.

Cleaning Your Squeegee After Wrapping

You started your wrapping project with a clean squeegee, and now, you’ve got a vehicle with a finish that looks bold, vibrant, and professional. You might think that the job is now done, but you mustn’t forget to give your squeegee another clean. Otherwise, leftover adhesive residue can accumulate on its surface, which will be harder to get off if not removed promptly.

Cleaning Steps:

  1. Remove Adhesive Build-Up

Apply your chosen cleaning solution to a clean, lint-free cloth. Once this is done, rub the cloth over the squeegee to dissolve that stubborn, sticky residue.

  1. Focus on the Corners and Edges

Once you have given the tool a quick once-over, turn your attention to the corners and edges and give them a thorough clean. If a cloth isn’t doing the trick, then try a soft brush.

  1. Rinse Thoroughly with Water

Once the residue has been taken care of, thoroughly wash off the solution with warm water.

  1. Dry with a Microfibre Towel

The drying process is the same as before. Pat dry with a microfibre towel until no wet spots remain. Once fully dry, store in a moisture-free location.

That’s a Wrap!

All in all, cleaning your squeegee before and after wrapping is essential for maintaining its ability to achieve great results. By adopting these practices, you’ll not only have a pleasant wrapping experience but also a vehicle at the end of it to be proud of.

ATC: Sealing the Deal on Car Wrapping Solutions

We can proudly say that our vehicle wrapping films only consist of premium materials and strong adhesives. As well as this, we also offer handy application tools, like squeegees and scrapers, which can be used to neatly apply our wrap to your emergency vehicles, fleet vans, or personal cars. Be sure to browse our website in order to discover all your options. If you have any questions, then get in touch by calling 01706 633043 or emailing Sales@apptape.co.uk.