Comparison ·
Exterior wash vs interior clean vs deep clean: which do you need?
Short answer
Book an exterior wash if only the outside needs attention, an interior clean if the cabin is the problem, and a deep clean when both inside and outside need a thorough reset. A deep clean combines exterior and interior work in one longer visit and suits cars that haven't been properly cleaned in a while.
| Feature | Exterior wash | Interior clean | Deep clean |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand wash of bodywork and glass | Yes | No | Yes |
| Wheels and wheel arches | Yes | No | Yes |
| Exterior decontamination | No | No | Yes |
| Vacuum of seats, carpets and boot | No | Yes | Yes |
| Dashboard, door cards and trim | No | Yes | Yes |
| Interior glass | No | Yes | Yes |
| Heavily soiled or neglected areas | — | — | Yes |
| Best for | Regular upkeep | Busy cabins | A full reset |
Choose an exterior wash when…
The cabin is fine but the paintwork, wheels and glass are dirty. An exterior wash is the service most people keep on a regular routine, because clean paint is easier to maintain and dirt left sitting on it for weeks is harder to shift.
It's also the right choice if you're planning paint protection: the protection has to go onto clean paint, so a wash comes first.
Choose an interior clean when…
The outside is presentable but the inside isn't: crumbs in the seat seams, muddy footwells, dusty vents, marked seats or smeary glass. Family cars, work vehicles and cars that carry pets usually need interior attention more often than exterior.
An interior clean can be booked on its own, which makes it the easiest service to fit in when the car is parked on a street or at a flat — we only need access to the vehicle.
Choose a deep clean when…
Both the inside and outside need a proper reset. Typical reasons are a car that hasn't been cleaned in months, a second-hand car you've just bought, getting a car ready to sell, or the end of a long winter.
Because it covers the whole vehicle and goes further on heavily soiled areas, a deep clean is the longest of the three visits.
Still not sure?
Describe the car's condition when you book — a couple of photos help — and we'll suggest the service that fits. You can also choose "Not sure yet" on the booking form.
Common questions
What's the difference between a valet and a deep clean?
"Valet" is often used loosely for any car clean. A deep clean is the most thorough of the three services here, combining exterior and interior work and targeting heavily soiled areas.
Can I book an interior clean and an exterior wash together?
Yes. If both need doing, a deep clean covers the inside and outside in one visit and goes further on heavily soiled areas.
Related services & areas
Rather have it done for you?
JS Car Detailing Colchester comes to your home or workplace — open 7 days a week from 8am.