The Pre-Storage Clean: Why Proper Preparation Protects Your Investment

Before a car is tucked away for winter or long-term rest, there’s one essential ritual every owner should prioritise — a professional pre-storage clean. It’s the difference between preservation and deterioration, between waking your car to perfection in spring or discovering corrosion, odours, and water marks.

At Birch, our in-house detailing partners follow a method that goes far beyond a typical valet. Every vehicle undergoes a complete wash, inspection, and decontamination process before entering our climate-monitored facility.

The First Stage: Removing the Dirt You Can’t See

A pre-wash solution is applied to encapsulate and break down surface grime. “We let it dwell for a few minutes so the dirt lifts away safely,” explains our detailer. “Then we rinse and go in with a lubricated foam for the contact wash.”

That layered approach prevents micro-scratches and ensures no residue is sealed in when the car goes into storage.

Attention to the Details Others Miss

After the main wash, every badge, grille and emblem receives a fine detailing-brush treatment. Dirt hidden in these areas can trap moisture and cause staining. “It’s the bits people skip that cause issues over time,” our expert notes.

Drying: The Most Critical Step

Once rinsed, each car is towel-dried using plush microfibres — and then air-dried with blowers. Moisture trapped around trim, wheel nuts or badges can lead to corrosion or white streaks. “We blow out every gap — especially wire wheels or vintage components — to make sure nothing lingers,” he adds.

Interior Checks and Cleaning

Inside, carpets are vacuumed, leather wiped down, and any deep areas steam-cleaned to remove bacteria or hidden moisture. Cars must enter storage completely dry and scent-free to avoid mould or condensation.

The Final Inspection

Every Birch car is inspected again before entering its space. Our philosophy is simple: preserve, don’t patch. A clean car stays stable. A contaminated one quietly deteriorates.

Before dropping your car off, remove personal items, empty drink cans or bottles, and clear out food. You’d be surprised how many “storage surprises” we’ve discovered over the years — from soft drinks that explode under pressure to more colourful finds best left untold.

When properly prepared, your car sleeps safely, and you can look forward to a perfect start when the sun returns.