Ceramic Coating Maintenance Schedule: Month-by-Month Guide
One of the most common questions we get at Infinity Detailing Studio is:
“How do I actually look after my ceramic coating?”
This guide breaks down a realistic, month-by-month maintenance schedule to help you maximise gloss, hydrophobic performance, and longevity.
First 7 Days: Critical Curing Period
During the first week after application, your ceramic coating is still curing.
What to do:
Avoid washing the vehicle
Keep it out of rain where possible
Do not apply any products to the paint
If the car gets dirty, contact your detailer for advice.
Month 1: Gentle Introduction
At this stage, the coating has cured but is still settling.
Best practices:
Hand wash only
Use pH-neutral shampoo
Dry thoroughly
Avoid automatic washes entirely.
Months 2–3: Establish a Routine
Consistency is key.
Recommended:
Wash every 2–3 weeks
Use clean wash mitts and towels
Inspect for bird droppings or sap regularly
This is where most coatings either thrive or begin to degrade due to neglect.
Months 4–6: Performance Check
You should still see strong water beading and gloss.
If performance drops:
The coating may be contaminated
A professional decontamination wash may be required
Month 6: Professional Maintenance Wash
At the 6-month mark, we strongly recommend a professional maintenance wash.
This typically includes:
Safe chemical decontamination
Coating-safe iron removal
Hydrophobic performance restoration
This step alone can add years to a coating’s lifespan.
Months 7–12: Ongoing Care
Continue regular washing and contamination removal.
Avoid:
Cheap detail sprays
Abrasive products
Skipping washes for long periods
12 Months: Annual Inspection
After one year, an inspection helps determine:
Coating health
Whether a topper is beneficial
If light polishing is required
This is especially important for daily-driven vehicles in Sydney conditions.
Long-Term Maintenance (2–5 Years)
With proper care, professional ceramic coatings can last several years.
The key factors are:
Washing habits
Environmental exposure
Regular professional maintenance
Final Thoughts
Ceramic coatings reward good habits. A simple, consistent maintenance routine will keep your vehicle looking better for longer and protect your investment.
If you’d like a tailored maintenance plan or professional aftercare, Infinity Detailing Studio offers ongoing support and maintenance services to keep your coating performing as it should.
