Keeping Your New Car Looking New with Ceramic Coating
September 24, 2025
How to Keep Your New Car Looking Showroom Fresh with a Ceramic Coating
Congratulations on your new car! That pristine paint, gleaming chrome, and flawless finish are enough to make any car enthusiast’s heart skip a beat. But let’s face it—life happens. Road grime, UV rays, bird droppings, and even those pesky parking lot scratches can quickly dull your car’s shine. If you want to preserve that just-rolled-off-the-lot look for years to come, a ceramic coating might be your secret weapon. In this post, we’ll dive into what ceramic coatings are, why they’re worth considering, and how they can keep your new car looking brand new.
What is a Ceramic Coating?
A ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to your car’s exterior surfaces, most commonly the painted surfaces. Once cured, it hardens to form a durable, protective layer that chemically bonds with the surface. Unlike traditional waxes or sealants, ceramic coatings create a semi-permanent shield that can last for years with proper care. Think of it as an invisible force field that guards your car against environmental hazards while enhancing its appearance.
Why Choose a Ceramic Coating for Your New Car?
- Superior Protection Against the Elements
From harsh UV rays to acid rain, tree sap, and bird droppings, your car’s paint is constantly under attack. Ceramic coatings provide a hydrophobic (water-repelling) barrier that makes it harder for contaminants to stick. This means fewer chances of etching or staining your paint. - Easier Cleaning and Maintenance
The slick surface of a ceramic coating repels dirt, dust, and grime, making washing your car a breeze. Water beads up and rolls off, often taking dirt with it. Many owners find they can skip frequent waxing and still keep their car sparkling clean. - Enhanced Gloss and Shine
Ceramic coatings amplify your car’s natural shine, giving it a deep, wet-look gloss that turns heads. The coating enhances the paint’s clarity and depth, making colors pop like never before. - Long-Lasting Results
Unlike wax, which might last a few months, a high-quality ceramic coating can protect your car for 2–7 years or more with proper maintenance. Our new Ceramic Pro ION Ceramic Coating even offers a Lifetime Warranty! This long-term solution saves you time and money compared to regular waxing.
The Application Process: What to Expect
- Thorough Cleaning and Decontamination
Yes, even New Cars need decontamination. The car’s surface is washed, clay-barred, and decontaminated to remove any dirt, tar, or iron particles. This ensures the coating bonds properly. - Paint Correction
If your new car has minor swirl marks or imperfections (yes, even brand-new cars can have them!), a professional detailer may perform a light polish to perfect the surface before applying the coating. - Application of the Coating
The ceramic coating is carefully applied in small sections using an applicator pad. It’s left to cure for a specific time, forming a hard, glossy layer. - Curing Time
The coating may need 12 to 24 hours to fully cure. During this time, avoid exposing the car to water or extreme conditions.
Tips for Maintaining Your Ceramic Coated Car
While ceramic coatings are low-maintenance, a little care goes a long way to maximize their lifespan:
Wash Smart: Use a pH-neutral car shampoo and the two-bucket method to avoid scratching the surface. Avoid automatic car washes with harsh brushes (we call them Scratch-O-Matics).
Regular Maintenance: Rinse your car frequently to remove loose dirt. Apply shampoo with a Foam Cannon can help rinse away debris.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners or polishes that could degrade the coating.
Periodic Inspections: Have your coating checked annually by a professional to ensure it’s performing as expected.
Is Ceramic Coating Worth It?
The upfront cost of a professional ceramic coating can be significant. For a new car, this investment is often worth it, especially if you plan to keep your vehicle for several years. Not only does it preserve the car’s aesthetic appeal, but it can also boost resale value by maintaining the paint in near-perfect condition. Some manufacturers even provide transferrable warranties with CarFax registration. If you’re on a budget, DIY ceramic coating kits are available in various price ranges and quality, but they require skill and patience to apply correctly. For best results, especially on a new car, professional application is recommended to ensure flawless coverage and durability.
Final Thoughts: Keep that New Car Glow
A ceramic coating is like a suit of armor for your new car, shielding it from the elements while keeping it looking showroom-fresh. With its long-lasting protection, easy maintenance, and head-turning shine, it’s a must-have for anyone who wants to preserve their vehicle’s beauty and value. Whether you’re cruising through the city or parked at a car show, a ceramic-coated car stands out for all the right reasons. Ready to give your new ride the ultimate protection? Contact us to get started. Your car—and your future self—will thank you for it!
Spring is the season classic car owners look forward to all winter long—the open roads, car shows, cruises, and that unmistakable feeling of cruising with the top down or windows open. But after months of storage (or limited cold-weather driving in places like Indiana), your vintage ride needs more than just a key turn to be ready. From a professional detailing perspective, proper prep isn't just about making it look good—it's about preserving originality, preventing damage, and ensuring the car performs and shines like the rolling piece of history it is. Winter storage or infrequent use can leave classic cars vulnerable: dust buildup, moisture trapped in interiors, rodent damage, flat spots on tires, dried-out seals, and oxidized or swirled paint from improper covers or condensation. Spring detailing sets the stage for a safe, enjoyable season while protecting your investment. Step 1: Initial Inspection & Safe De-Storage Before touching any product or water, do a thorough walk-around: Check for rodent nests, chewed wires, or droppings (common under hoods and in interiors after storage). Inspect tires for flat spots, dry rot, or cracking—classic bias-ply or vintage radials can develop issues from sitting. Look underneath for fluid leaks, rust progression, or debris. Pop the hood: Examine belts/hoses for cracks, battery terminals for corrosion, and fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake, transmission). Gently exercise doors, windows, and convertible tops to check seals and mechanisms without forcing anything. Pro tip: If the car has been stored long-term, change the oil/filter right away—old oil can turn acidic and harm internals. Step 2: Gentle Exterior Cleaning (Preserve That Original Paint!) Classic paint (especially single-stage lacquer or enamel from pre-1980s cars) is thin and delicate—aggressive products or machines can burn through or leave holograms. Pre-wash : Use a pH-neutral foam or snow foam to loosen dust/dirt without touching the paint. Rinse thoroughly. Two-bucket wash : Hand wash with a grit-guard bucket system and soft microfiber mitt. Avoid automatic brushes or harsh soaps—stick to dedicated car shampoo. Clay bar decontamination : Gently remove embedded contaminants (tree sap, industrial fallout) with a fine-grade clay and lubricant. Be extra light on older finishes. Paint correction (if needed) : For oxidation, light swirls, or water spots, use a very mild polish (hand or DA polisher on low speed) with wool or foam pads. Test in a hidden spot first—many classics only need a jeweling polish rather than heavy compounding. Protection : Apply a carnauba-based wax or hybrid ceramic spray sealant for UV/water resistance. Don't forget chrome, trim, and rubber: Use dedicated chrome polish, trim restorers, and rubber/vinyl conditioners to prevent cracking. Step 3: Interior Revival (Bring Back the Smell & Feel of History) Interiors in classics (leather, vinyl, wood, wool carpets) age uniquely and need gentle care. Vacuum & brush : Remove dust/debris with soft brushes and crevice tools—avoid aggressive brushes on delicate carpets. Leather/vinyl cleaning : Use pH-neutral cleaners and conditioners formulated for vintage materials. Wood & metal accents : Clean with mild soap and apply protectant—never use harsh abrasives on original finishes. Odor & mold check : If musty smells persist, use enzyme treatments or ozone (professionally) to eliminate trapped moisture odors from winter. Glass & mirrors : Clean with ammonia-free glass cleaner to avoid streaking on old windshields. Step 4: Final Touches & Protection for the Season Tire dressing : Use a non-sling formula to restore sidewall shine without attracting dirt. Clean white walls with Bleche-wite and fine steel wool. Engine bay : Degrease lightly (avoid high pressure on old wiring), dress hoses/plastics, and detail for show-quality look. Test drive & re-check : After everything dries, take a short drive and re-inspect for any issues that appear under heat/load. Why Professional Detailing Makes Sense for Classics DIY is rewarding, but pros bring experience with vintage materials, proper lighting to spot imperfections, and access to low-aggression products that won't harm irreplaceable finishes. A good detailer can spot early rust, dry rot, or hidden damage you might miss. At My Baby Detailing | Ceramic Pro Indy, we specialize in classic and vintage vehicles—whether it's a gentle hand polish on single-stage paint, safe interior revival, or adding modern protection (like Ceramic Pro ION ) that won't alter the original look. We understand the balance between preservation and perfection. Don't let winter neglect shorten your spring driving season. Schedule a pre-season detail now—your classic will thank you with smoother rides, deeper shine, and fewer headaches all summer long. Ready to wake up your ride? Contact Us today for a personalized spring prep plan! Happy cruising! #ClassicCarDetailing #SpringPrep #VintageCarCare #CeramicPro #MyBabyDetailing #IndyDetailing
Winter in Indiana is beautiful—until the salt trucks roll out. Road salt and brine may be beneficial for safety, but they’re brutal on vehicles. Corrosion from salt exposure causes thousands of dollars in damage every year: rusted frames, compromised brake lines, underbody rot, and expensive repairs. Many drivers turn to undercoating for protection, but is it the best option? Or is there a better way? In this 2026 guide, we compare traditional undercoating (oil-based, rubberized, wax-based) with Salts Gone™ , the chloride-neutralizing treatment we use at My Baby Detailing | Ceramic Pro Indy. As Central Indiana’s only Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, we’ve seen both methods in action on everything from daily drivers to luxury exotics and fleet trucks. Here’s the real-world breakdown. The Problem: How Indiana Road Salt Damages Cars Indiana Department of Transportation spreads millions of tons of salt and brine each winter. When mixed with moisture, it accelerates oxidation (rust) on exposed metal. Common trouble spots include: Undercarriage and frame Wheel wells and rockers Brake lines and suspension Exhaust components Traditional undercoating aims to block this, but many drivers discover it can trap salt underneath, leading to hidden rust that’s worse than no protection at all. What Is Traditional Undercoating? Traditional undercoatings are thick, tar-like or oil-based sprays applied to the underbody. Types include: Rubberized/asphalt-based : Thick barrier, often black and sticky. Oil-based/wax-based (e.g., Fluid Film, Woolwax): Penetrating formulas that creep into seams. Pros : Upfront cost is low ($200–$600 for full application). Creates a physical barrier against moisture and debris. Cons : Traps existing salt/brine underneath → hidden corrosion continues. Cracks/peels over time (especially in freeze-thaw cycles). Hard to inspect or reapply. Can attract more dirt and hold moisture. Not ideal on modern vehicles with Ceramic Pro, PPF, or factory coatings (may degrade them). Many owners report rust bubbling through undercoating after 1–3 winters—sometimes worse than untreated cars. What Is Salts Gone™? Salts Gone is a non-hazardous, eco-friendly chloride neutralizer and surface protectant. It’s sprayed on (often during a hand wash or underbody clean), instantly breaks the bond of salt/brine, removes it completely, and leaves a protective film that prevents re-adhesion. How it works : Chelating agents dissolve and neutralize chlorides on contact. Safe on paint, Ceramic Pro coatings, PPF, glass, wheels, and underbody components. No residue or trapping—salt washes away clean. Can be reapplied seasonally (quick spray/rinse). Pros : Removes existing salt instead of covering it. Prevents hidden corrosion. Complements Ceramic Pro ION (our specialty) for full protection. Easy to apply/maintain—no thick buildup. Eco-friendly and biodegradable. Cons : Requires regular application (every few washes in heavy salt season). Not a "set it and forget it" thick barrier like some undercoatings. Head-to-Head Comparison: Salts Gone vs. Traditional Undercoating Feature Traditional Undercoating Salts Gone™ How it works Covers/seals surface Removes/neutralizes salt + adds barrier Handles existing salt Traps it underneath Dissolves and removes it Long-term rust protection Can trap moisture/salt → hidden rust Prevents adhesion → less hidden corrosion Compatibility with coatings May degrade ceramic coatings/PPF Safe & enhances Ceramic Pro Maintenance Difficult to inspect/reapply Easy seasonal spray Cost (initial) $200–$600 full vehicle Lower per application (often bundled with wash) Cost (long-term) Higher if rust forms underneath Lower with prevention Eco-friendliness Varies (some oil-based) Biodegradable, non-hazardous Best for Older trucks/fleets on tight budget Modern cars, luxury/exotics, Ceramic Pro users Real Results from My Baby Detailing We’ve treated hundreds of vehicles in Indiana winters. Here’s what we see: Traditional undercoating : Some older trucks hold up okay, but many develop rust bubbles within 2–3 years (especially on seams/rockers). Salts Gone + Ceramic Pro ION : Vehicles stay cleaner longer, with minimal corrosion even after heavy salt exposure. Luxury clients (Corvettes, Teslas, Panigales) love it—no trapped salt, easy maintenance, and preserved resale value. One example: A 2016 Buick we treated with Salts Gone after one winter showed zero rust progression, while a similar undercoated vehicle had bubbling issues. When to Choose Each Go traditional undercoating if: You have an older work truck, want a thick one-time barrier, and don’t mind potential hidden rust. Choose Salts Gone (our recommendation) if: You drive a modern car, luxury/exotic, or already have Ceramic Pro/PPF. It’s proactive, safe, and works with modern protection systems. The Bottom Line for Indiana Drivers In our salt-heavy winters, removing and preventing salt adhesion beats trapping it. Traditional undercoating has its place, but for most vehicles in 2026, Salts Gone offers better long-term protection—especially when paired with Ceramic Pro ION coatings and PPF. As Indy's ONLY Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, we combine Salts Gone with premium ION protection and PPF for total winter defense. Your car deserves more than a cover-up—it deserves real prevention. Ready to protect your ride before spring? Book your Salts Gone treatment or full Ceramic Pro package today! Call (317) 360-9222 or message us. Stay rust-free, Indiana.
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Salts Gone Solution: The Ultimate Defense Against Winter Salt Damage Winter in Indiana means one thing for your vehicle: road salt. While it keeps roads safer, it’s a silent killer for your car’s underbody, frame, and components. Salt accelerates corrosion, leading to rust that can cost thousands in repairs or even shorten your vehicle’s life. That’s where Salts Gone comes in. It's a powerful, pH-neutral salt and brine remover that doesn’t just wash salt away; it neutralizes it and leaves a protective barrier. At My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, we’ve seen firsthand how effective Salts Gone is as part of our winter protection services. Here’s why it’s become a go-to solution for keeping vehicles rust-free through the salt season. How Does Salts Gone Work? Salts Gone uses a proprietary chelation process to break the chemical bonds in salt (like NaCl) and brine deposits. Instead of just rinsing salt off, it binds to the salt molecules, separates the elements, and prevents them from reforming or re-adhering. This neutralization stops the corrosion process at the source. After application, Salts Gone leaves behind a thin protective layer that repels future salt and moisture, making it harder for new buildup to stick. It’s safe on all surfaces — paint, metal, rubber, plastic, glass — and is eco-friendly, non-hazardous, and biodegradable. Why Road Salt Is So Destructive? Road salt lowers the freezing point of water, creating a brine that sticks to your vehicle. When combined with moisture and oxygen, it creates the perfect electrolyte for rust (oxidation) to accelerate. The undercarriage, wheel wells, frame rails, exhaust, and suspension components are especially vulnerable because salt hides in crevices and seams where regular washes can’t reach. Without treatment, rust starts small but spreads fast leading to structural damage, safety issues, and big repair bills. Salts Gone stops this cycle by removing existing salt and preventing re-deposition. Key Benefits of Salts Gone for Your Vehicle Removes embedded salt and brine — Even in hard-to-reach areas underbody and in seams. Prevents rust formation — Neutralizes corrosive salts before they cause damage. Leaves a protective barrier — Helps repel future salt and moisture. Safe for all surfaces — No harsh chemicals that strip wax, damage paint, or harm rubber/plastic. Easy application — We spray it on with a pressure washer and under-body trolley to reach every crevice underneath your car, truck, or SUV. Cost-effective — One treatment now can save thousands in rust repairs later. Real-World Use at My Baby Detailing We use Salts Gone as a key step in every wintertime Hand Wash and Exterior Detail . We spray it directly onto the undercarriage, focusing on high-risk areas like the frame, suspension, and exhaust. Customers with trucks, SUVs, and daily drivers love how it leaves the underbody cleaner and better protected than a standard wash alone. One recent client with a Ram truck said: “After last winter’s salt, I was worried about rust starting. The Salts Gone treatment plus our undercoating made a huge difference — no visible corrosion after months of heavy salt exposure.” Is Salts Gone Right for You? If you drive in Indiana (or any salt-belt state), the answer is yes — especially if: You have a newer vehicle you want to keep rust-free You plan to keep your car long-term You want to avoid expensive rust repairs or frame damage Pair It with Full Protection For maximum winter defense, combine Salts Gone with: Ceramic Pro coatings on paint and trim Front-end PPF for rock chip protection This combo creates a complete shield against salt, grime, and corrosion. Ready to stop winter salt before it destroys your ride? At My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, we offer Salts Gone underbody treatments with every Hand Wash and Exterior Detail throughout winter months. Call 317-360-9222 to book and keep your vehicle rust-free all season long.
Exciting News: My Baby Detailing Becomes an Official Sponsor of IndyHoodRats for 2026! We're thrilled to announce that My Baby Detailing is now an official sponsor of IndyHoodRats — the Midwest's premier automotive event organizations right here in Indianapolis! IndyHoodRats is all about creating safe, family-friendly, inclusive car experiences for enthusiasts of every kind. From massive block parties and cars & coffee gatherings to epic road rallies, trunk-or-treat events, and indoor car shows at venues like the Indiana State Fairgrounds and the old airport parking garage, they bring together trucks, muscle cars, sportscars, classics, luxury rides, motorcycles, and everything in between. Their mission? Deliver octane-fueled fun while promoting responsible, legal automotive culture — no take-overs, no reckless behavior, just pure community vibes. As a Greenwood-based shop specializing in premium detailing , partnering with IndyHoodRats feels like a perfect fit. We see the passion these car lovers pour into their rides every day and we know how important it is to protect that investment from Indiana's harsh winters, road salt, rock chips, UV damage, and everyday wear. Being part of the IndyHoodRats 2026 season means we'll be supporting some of the biggest and best events on the calendar, including: Block Parties (kicking off April 25th at the airport garage!) Cars Night Out events Indoor car shows Road rallies And more family-friendly gatherings throughout the year We'll be on-site at select events, offering consultations, giveaways, special sponsor perks, and showing off real-world examples of our work. This partnership is about more than just business, it's about contributing to the local car community that keeps our shop thriving. We love seeing Hoosiers roll up in their pride-and-joy vehicles, and we're honored to help keep them looking sharp and staying protected for years to come. Stay tuned for more details on where you'll spot us in 2026! Follow IndyHoodRats on Instagram, Facebook , and their website ( IndyHoodRats.com ) for the full event schedule, and keep an eye on our pages for sponsor highlights. Ready to protect your ride before the next cruise-in? Give us a call at 317-360-9222 or book online today. Here's to an epic 2026 season filled with clean, shiny rides and great times!
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The new year is the perfect time to give your car the care it deserves without lifting a finger yourself. A professionally maintained vehicle looks sharper, stays more comfortable, holds its value longer, and avoids costly repairs down the road. Here are realistic New Year's resolutions centered on handing your car over to the pros at My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, Indiana, so it stays showroom-fresh all year. 1. Resolve to Schedule Regular Professional Washes Commit to dropping your car off every 2 weeks (more often in Indiana winters with road salt and grime). Our expert team removes contaminants that eat paint before they cause damage. (For deep savings and VIP treatment consider our Premium Membership .) See the dramatic difference professional washing makes: We use safe, pH-balanced products and techniques that leave your paint glossy and protected. 2. Upgrade to Long-Lasting Professional Protection Skip the DIY wax kits. This year, let us apply a premium Ceramic Pro ceramic coating or Paint Protection Film (PPF) that repels water, dirt, UV rays, and contaminants for year, not weeks. Our Elite-level Ceramic Pro packages create a deep, hydrophobic shine that makes every wash easier and your car look better longer.
The holiday season is all about giving thoughtful, meaningful gifts that show you care. While socks, gadgets, and gift cards to big retailers are always safe bets, why not surprise your loved ones with something truly unique and practical this year? A gift card from My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, Indiana, is an exceptional choice that combines luxury, convenience, and genuine appreciation for their prized possession—their vehicle. My Baby Detailing, established in 2021, has quickly become the go-to spot for premium auto care in the area. As Indy's only Ceramic Pro Elite Dealer, they specialize in everything from meticulous interior cleans to stunning ceramic coatings and paint protection film (PPF). Their motto? "Your baby is our baby at My Baby Detailing." Now, imagine gifting that level of expert care! Here are some top reasons why a My Baby Detailing gift card shines brighter than the rest under the Christmas tree: 1. It's Thoughtful and Personal Everyone loves their car (or truck, SUV, or even boat!) and showing you notice how much they care about it hits different. A professional detailing session revives that "new car" feeling, making every drive more enjoyable. It's a gift that says, "I know you love your ride, and I want it to look its absolute best." 2. Practical Luxury They’ll Actually Use Unlike gadgets that gather dust or clothes that might not fit perfectly, a detailing gift card is guaranteed to be redeemed. Winter road salt, holiday travel crumbs, and everyday wear take a toll on vehicles, especially in Indiana. A full detail removes grime, protects the paint, and refreshes the interior, making it a timely post-holiday treat. 3. The Wow Factor: Before-and-After Magic Nothing beats the jaw-dropping transformation of a professionally detailed car. Exteriors gleam with mirror-like shine, while Interiors feel fresh, clean, and odor-free. Recipients will be thrilled every time they hop in their sparkling vehicle, thinking of you fondly. 4. Flexible and Stress-Free for Everyone Gift cards let the recipient choose exactly what they need—whether it's a quick interior refresh, full package detailing, or even advanced services like Ceramic Pro Coating . No guessing sizes or preferences! Plus, it's easy for you: visit My Baby Detailing at 4981 W. Smith Valley Road in Greenwood, Indiana or purchase one online here . 5. It is a Gift Everyone Appreciates One of the challenges of gift-giving is knowing the preferences and desires of the recipient. Do they like this color? Is this the right size? Etc. But with a My Baby Detailing Gift Certificate your worries are over. Anyone with a car, truck, or motorcycle will appreciate a ticket to its enhancement and preservation. Can you really think of anyone who doesn't prefer a clean vehicle to a dirty one? 6. Boosts Vehicle Value and Protection Professional detailing isn't just cosmetic, it preserves the car's finish, prevents wear, and can even increase resale value. In the harsh Midwest winters, it's a smart investment in longevity. This Christmas, skip the ordinary and give the gift of a showroom-ready ride. Head to My Baby Detailing in Greenwood, or click here to purchase gift cards. Your friends and family will thank you every time they turn the key! 7. It Supports Small Business and Your Local Community Many shoppers pay lip service to supporting local small businesses but in the end, they end up buying from Big Box Stores or online retailers. When you purchase a My Baby Detailing Gift Card, you are truly supporting a small business with its roots firmly in the Greenwood, Indiana soil. Our business is locally owned and operated. You are dealing with your friends and neighbors who live beside you in the Center Grove Community of Johnson County. Shop Local.
