How to Properly Wash a Pickup Truck Bed

Pickup trucks are extremely versatile both on and off the road thanks to the utility of their open beds. If you own a pickup truck, you probably understand that this luxury also means sacrificing some time and effort to keep your pickup truck bed clean. 

Your pickup truck and truck bed are vulnerable to the elements and constantly trap debris and dirt. Before you dedicate time to cleaning your truck bed, there are a few essential ways to make cleaning go quickly and smoothly. Read on for a step-by-step guide on how to make your pickup truck bed shine from the best truck wash near you.

Step 1: Sweep Out Debris and Remove Items

The first thing you need to do is use a simple push broom to remove any dirt, rocks, sticks and other debris that may be laying around in your truck bed. Sweep all the debris into a dust pan to dispose of it easy.  When it gets cold, it would be wise to have a shovel handy to get rid of accumulated snow. Also remove any items or miscellaneous possessions from your truck bed during this stage. Detach your toolbox if you have one installed as it can get in the way of the cleaning process.

Step 2: Spray the Bed Liner

Use water from a high-pressure washer to spray the truck bed’s surface. This will help remove any leftover debris or dirt trapped in the corners and prepare your truck bed for cleaning. Make sure you spray the bed liner from side to side, beginning from the rear window and working your way towards the tailgate. Leave your tailgate open and angle the pressure washer in a way that allows the dirty water to flow directly out of the bed.

Step 3: Wash the Truck Bed

Before you begin, make sure you’re not using cleaning chemicals that could ruin your bed liner’s material. If you’re not sure, play it safe and use a simple car wash soap for cleaning. Start applying the car wash soap throughout the bed liner and use a heavy-duty, nylon scrubbing brush to get rid of the dirt and stains.

Step 4: Rinse and Dry the Bed Liner

After thoroughly cleaning the bed liner, use the pressure washer on its highest setting to thoroughly rinse your truck bed. Rinse both front to back and side to side, and don’t forget to get the corners and cracks throughout. After rinsing your truck bed, let your pickup truck dry in the sun or use a dry cloth to speed up the process. Make sure it’s fully dry to avoid mildew and fungus growth. Find a truck wash near you to help keep your pickup shining year round.

Dusty’s is the Best Truck Wash Near You

While it’s true that you have options to wash your pickup truck at home, save yourself the hassle and drive it over to Dusty’s instead. Our extra large self-serve wash bays give you all the space you need to wash your pickup truck quickly and easily. We have high-pressure wash wands and the finest selection of soaps, conditioner, protectant, tire cleaner, and wax, ready for you to make your pickup shine. Our water is softened through a multi-step filtration system including a water softener, filter tanks and reverse osmosis so you can count on a spot free vehicle!  Whether you’re stopping by for a routine clean or urgent clean up after a particularly messy trip, we are standing by 7 days a week from 4AM to midnight. For more information, on truck care and our other services, including our deluxe car wash, visit our website