Questions
Straight answers, including the unhelpful ones.
Some of these say no. We would rather tell you what detailing cannot do before you book than explain it while you are standing next to the car.
Do I need to provide water and power?
Yes. We need access to an outdoor water spigot (a standard hose bib works) and a nearby electrical outlet at the service address. We bring the vacuums, the extraction machine, brushes, buckets, chemicals and towels. Relying on your water and power instead of hauling a tank and a generator to every job is what keeps our prices straightforward.
What if I don't have an outdoor spigot, like at an apartment?
Then exterior work usually is not possible at that address, and we will tell you that honestly before booking rather than after arriving. Interior-only work needs just a power outlet, so that is often still workable. Tell us your situation when you reach out and we will say plainly whether it is a fit.
Why do you ask for photos and a detailed message?
A quote is only as good as what it is based on. A phone description like "pretty dirty" can mean a lot of different things, and heavy pet hair, a soaked carpet, or years of built-up grime all add real time. Photos and a few details up front mean the price we give you is the price you pay, and we can bring the right supplies the first time instead of coming back.
What do you actually need from me on the day?
Access to the water spigot and the outlet, a parking space we can work around, and the keys. For interior or furniture work, take out anything valuable or personal beforehand, since we would rather not move your belongings around.
How long does a job take?
A car exterior runs one to three hours. A full interior detail runs two to six hours depending on size and condition. Furniture cleaning depends on the number of pieces, and we will give you a real estimate once we see photos. We would rather quote long and finish early.
Do you work in the rain? This is the Pacific Northwest.
Interior and furniture work go ahead regardless of weather, since it happens under cover or with the doors closed. Exterior car washing can happen in light rain, but we will reschedule a wash timed right before a heavy downpour, since there is no point washing a car that is about to get soaked again.
What is the real difference between this and a drive-through car wash?
Two things. First, contact: a drive-through brush or a shared wash mitt is what puts most of the fine scratching into clear coat in the first place, so a careful hand wash exists mainly to avoid adding damage. Second, attention: wheel wells, door jambs, and the wheel faces themselves get cleaned by hand, which a drive-through never touches.
Can you get pet hair out?
Usually, and it is one of the more common jobs we do. Embedded hair in woven carpet and cloth seating needs mechanical extraction rather than vacuuming. It takes time, and heavy cases add to the labor. Tell us there is a dog or cat in the picture when you reach out and we will schedule the hours for it instead of running short on the day.
Do you clean furniture that isn't in a car?
Yes. Sofas, sectionals, dining chairs, mattresses and rugs indoors, and cushions and outdoor furniture outside. It is the same hot-water extraction equipment we use on car interiors, so the capability carries straight over. Send photos of the piece and any stains and we will quote it.
How far do you travel?
Both sides of the Columbia. Vancouver, Camas and Ridgefield in Clark County, plus Portland, Lake Oswego, West Linn and Happy Valley across Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties. If you are just outside that ring, call and ask. It is often still workable.
Still not answered?
Call and ask. We would rather spend five minutes on the phone than have you book the wrong thing.