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6 Ways To Keep Your Car Clean

We spend a lot of time in our cars. In fact, the average person’s daily commute is between 60 – 90 minutes round-trip. With the amount of time we spend in our automobiles, it is important to know how to keep them clean and smelling fresh. Here are 6 tips for keeping your vehicle in tip top shape.

Wash Routine

First, start by establishing a wash routine. It is important to wash your car at least once every two weeks as dirt and grime can have a negative impact on your vehicles paint. Additionally, salt and bug splats would require immediate care as salt can cause chemical reactions while the bugs release toxins and acid that can eat away the paint surface. Luckily, your friends at Caliber Carwash will be there to accommodate whatever car washing needs you desire.

Have Cleaning Products

Let’s face it. Accidental spills happen. You may need more than a napkin to clean up the mess, so we recommend keeping a pack of multi-purpose or multi-surface wet wipes to clean on the go (if you have leather or other delicate material in your vehicle, make sure the wipes are gentle on said material. They’ll usually say it on the back of the bottle or in the description for the online shoppers). You can also stop by Caliber for use of our quality multi-purpose and window cleaner.

Replace Air Filter

The air that enters through a car’s vents is filtered. Air filters prevents debris, dust, sand, and insects from entering and ensures cleaner air. How often air filters need replacing varies on the vehicle, distance traveled, and travel conditions. Replacing air filters are often overlooked and can have a negative effect on your car’s performance so it is important to change them regularly. Many air filters are easy to access and replace as most are found in the back or underneath the glove compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. You can usually grab a new air filter for as low as $15 and it will last for months. Also, when getting an oil change, most mechanics will change this for free if you have a replacement filter handy.

Use A Mini Trash Bin

From old receipts to gas station napkins, trash can fill up in our vehicles quickly if we are not careful. Keeping a mini car trash bin in arms reach can prevent clutter and unwanted trash out of sight. Do not forget to empty your bin regularly as trash can attract unwanted pests, begin to smell or it could make your car look junky.

Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are essential to keeping your car smelling fresh. Odor can consume the breathable space in your vehicle very quickly, and air fresheners help keep that in check. Did we forget to mention that Caliber offers free air fresheners with every wash?

Seat Covers & Kick Mats

If you are a parent or pet owner, messes are bound to happen. Waterproof seat covers will keep your car’s interior clean, dry, and free of stains. They also help protect expensive materials such as leather, from getting scratched, stained, or damaged by the sun during the summer months. Kick mats are also effective at making sure you do not bring unwanted debris inside your car as to stain it in anyway. You can easily vacuum these at Caliber or many are machine-washable. And for any of those carper floor mats that get dirty, don’t forget to try Caliber’s complimentary carpet mat cleaner.

Have ideas for keeping your car #CaliberClean that we didn’t mention? Let us know on our social media so we can share your tips!

How Do I Clean My Car Mats?

As careful as we may try to keep the inside of our car clean, dirt and dust still accumulate. Oil, crumbs, and other substances will stick to the bottom of our shoes and will inevitably track dirt inside of our car and end up on our floor mats. Over time, both rubber and cloth mats will retain dirt, causing discoloration and lack of appeal. Don’t worry though, here’s your go-to guide for cleaning dirty mats!

How Do I Clean Rubber Car Mats?

Rubber mats are the easiest to clean since they are waterproof and do not hide dust and particles. To keep your rubber mats looking their best, follow these easy steps:

Step 1 – Remove Mats From Vehicle
Always begin cleaning your mats by removing them from your vehicle and giving them a good shake to remove loose debris.

Step 2 – Remove Loose Debris
After you give your mats a good shake, vacuum mats on both sides to get rid of any excess dirt and particles. Make sure to vacuum under pedals, seats, and in any other cracks and crevices. And for those hard-to-reach nooks between mat treads and doors, use detailing air to blow away crumbs that don’t shake off.

Step 3 – Wash Mats With Cleaning Solutions
Once your mats are free from dirt, thoroughly saturate mats using a cleaning solution such as Caliber’s multi-purpose cleaner. Avoid using any harsh chemical solutions such as chlorine bleach as this will cause damage. Grab a towel and begin wiping the mat to clean away any build-up or stuck-on dirt.

Step 4 – Rinse Or Wipe Off
Once you have finished scrubbing, take a clean towel to wipe away any residue, and reinstall mats.

How Do I Clean Carpet Car Mats?

Cleaning cloth mats require a little extra work to clean than rubber mats unless you have an automatic mat cleaner handy (don’t worry Caliber customers, we have you covered).

If you’re visiting Caliber, cleaning carpet mats are as easy as one, two, three.

  • Step 1 – Locate the complimentary mat cleaner located near the vacuum booms.
  • Step 2 – Place your mat facedown on the silver tray.
  • Step 3 –  Hit the “start button” and wait less than 15 seconds for your vacuumed mat to appear. Feel free to hit “stop” when you’re done or walk away and the cleaner will turn off.

It’s as easy as that!

Of course, we understand that you may not always be able to visit a Caliber for that quick mat clean, so here’s an effective way to clean carpeted floor mats at home:

Step 1 – Remove Mats From Vehicle
Similar to cleaning rubber mats, begin by removing your carpet mats from your vehicle to shake off loose debris.

Step 2 – Remove Loose Debris
After shaking mats, vacuum both sides of your mats to eliminate excess dirt, dust, and any other disguising particles. Be sure to vacuum under pedals, under and around seats, and any other areas that need vacuuming.

Step 3 – Wash Mats With Cleaning Solution
Apply a cleaning solution such as carpet cleaner or detergent onto mats saturating them evenly. Using a brush or towel, scrub mats to agitate dirt. For tougher stains in mats, allow the cleaner to sit for additional time, then scrub away.

Step 4 – Vacuum Mats
Vacuum your mats again, as this will help suction up traces of cleaner and leftover dirt particles from the mats. Once this is completed, allow mats to dry thoroughly. Do not put them back in your car until they are completely dry, as they will cause a damp smell.

If your mat has rips or tears, consider hand-washing to prevent more damage.

No matter how you choose to clean your mats, be sure to do them frequently. Keeping your car mats clean makes your car feel and fresher.

If you have more mat cleaning tips, feel free to tag us online at #CaliberClean. We hope to see you soon!

Caliber Team Member Hojeen Shares Her Passion For People and Cosmetology

At Caliber, we know that people are at the heart of our organization. We focus on putting people first, and recognizing our team members that go above and beyond. In Phenix City, team member Hojeen Yonis is known for her bright outlook, ambition, and drive to be the best.

Hojeen, a Nashville, Tennessee native, joined the Phenix City Caliber family more than a year ago, and says it’s the people that keep her passionate.  In fact, she shares that the best part of her day is building those relationships with the people around her.

“My favorite part about my job is the friendly community of Phenix City. What I love most about the Phenix City community is the customers are so lovely which has made our wash a really positive, bright, and friendly environment. I absolutely love seeing my regular customers come through and getting to know them.”

Hojeen also knows what it takes to make a great team. When she started in July 2020, her attitude and determination became apparent, and she quickly moved up the ranks. Along with her work ethic, Hojeen attributes much of her success to the collaborative, goal-oriented mindset of her team.

“My co-workers are beyond amazing, and I’ve had the chance to learn something from everyone on my team. Caliber is also very focused on promoting growth within the organization, which has really motivated me to build my leadership skills so I can be prepared for the future.”

It doesn’t stop there. In her free time, Hojeen stays busy focusing on several other personal passion projects. A driving force behind her attitude is her passion for creativity and inspiring others.

“My biggest motivation in life is to grow to be the best version of myself and succeed in all my passions. In my free time, I’m a makeup artist. I’ve been studying cosmetology since I was 12 years old. I love doing makeup for my clients, and it’s something I’ve loved doing since I was young.”

The ultimate goal for Hojeen is for every customer to leave with a smile and shine, and she says she’s always willing to go that extra mile to make that happen.

“Here at the Phenix City location, we really take pride in giving the best customer service to everyone who comes through our wash. My best tip for our customers is utilizing our prep station, this ensures you are getting the most out of your experience. Our prep station is great for things like removing hard stains, dried bugs, and hard to reach areas, you’ll notice the difference after exiting our wash!”

Stop by today and meet Hojeen at our Phenix City location – make sure to say give her a wave!

Cheering And Routing for the Winter Park Wildcats

Caliber’s school spirit is at an all-time high as we announce our partnership with the Winter Park Wildcats Varsity Football team for 2021! Our sponsorship will help the Wildcats on their road to the top, and Caliber is thrilled to be able to support the success of our local sports teams. With a big season ahead, Caliber will be cheering on the Wildcats both on and off the field.

For store manager Carlos, the chance to support the Winter Park community is a chance he couldn’t turn down.

“The future of our community is our people. We are proud to help build programs that will grant students and athletes the ability to grow, thrive and move into their futures with important skills,” said Carlos. “Of course, it’s also amazing to see firsthand how much our sports programs bring us together. Our teams really enjoy seeing customers and neighbors out sporting orange and black!”

Caliber is on a mission to help support our local schools, organizations, and communities with sponsorships and fundraisers. If you are interested in learning more about our opportunities, check out our website or reach out to us on social media. If you want to learn more about the Winter Park Wildcats, head to their Athletics website for more information. We hope to see you soon, Winter Park!

Dedication Drives Caliber-Sponsored Hoggard High School Vikings

When you think of the Hoggard High School Vikings, the word ‘dedication’ may come to mind. Their football program is well-known within the local community, dating back to 1967. They have spent several decades perfecting their craft and building a strong foundation. Their mission statement reads, “We will build on the winning tradition of Hoggard Football by focusing on mental and physical training and by supporting one another as we build both individual and team character.” It’s that team-building mindset that makes Caliber thrilled to announce our support and sponsorship for the 2021 Hoggard High Vikings!

The Vikings are starting off the year big with a strong coaching staff, a hardworking team, and an extensive support system on Friday nights. Whether it’s on or off the field, Caliber’s support of the team is a way to invest in the future of our communities.

“When we get involved in the local community, it’s because we know that people make all the difference. Caliber was built on people and understanding the importance of bringing neighbors together. We’re honored to support a program that aligns with Caliber’s values of teamwork and dedication. We especially love to celebrate and invest in the success of our Wilmington schools because these students are our future!” said Wilmington site manager Natalie.

One of Caliber’s missions is to continue to empower area students. We have sponsorship and fundraiser opportunities available. You can find out more on our website. If you’re interested in learning more about the Hoggard Vikings schedule or roster, check out their website!

Campbell High Spartans are Ready to Crush the Competition with the Help of Caliber

At Caliber Car Wash, we focus on more than just cars. We focus on people and local communities. We sponsor over a dozen local schools across the Southeast and hope to continue contributing to the future of our students. With that in mind, we’re thrilled to support the Campbell High School Spartans for their upcoming 2021 football season! As a sponsor, our donations help provide travel support, equipment, meals, and more for the team.

“Investing in our local schools, students, and families is a priority at Caliber Smyrna. We want our community to be the best it can be. Seeing students and parents sporting their Spartan blue puts a huge smile on my face, as I know our Caliber support can help make a difference in their futures,” said Caliber Manager Josh Johnson.

With a big win under their belt against the East Paulding Raiders, the Spartans are already hitting the ground running this fall. High school football is a pillar of the Cobb County community, and Friday nights are a highlight for students, teachers, and neighbors alike.

Caliber was built on clean cars through innovation, great people, and superior service at our core. Our mission is to continue to invest in great people, including those in our surrounding areas, to help build and support communities.

If you are interested in learning more about Caliber sponsorships and fundraisers, send us an email at info @ calibercarwash or reach out on social media – we’re always excited to support our local community!

Fort Walton Football Player Loves to Hear From Fans and Customers

It’s once again time for the Big Green Indians to hit the field! As a proud supporter of our local schools, Caliber is excited to be a Warrior Sponsor for the Choctawhatchee High School 2021 football season. Caliber employee Jaden, who you can catch working the tunnel in Fort Walton Beach, is also part of the Choctawhatchee High School Football team. Jaden says be prepared for big things to come this year.

“Community runs deep on Friday nights in Fort Walton Beach. We have a new coach this year and we’re coming off a big Friday night win, so we’re excited to keep working hard and putting in the time to be successful. When we have the community’s support, it makes our hard work worth it. There’s nothing better than hearing our fans screaming in the stands,” said Jaden.

Caliber believes that when local schools and businesses partner together, it helps sustain a healthy and growing sense of local community, while also setting up our students for future success.

“I’m grateful for the support of our local businesses in Fort Walton, but especially to Caliber. As a high school student and football player, I’m proud to be part of a company that supports me both at work and on the field.” said Jaden.

Caliber is excited to be able to partner with our local schools, and wishes the best to the Indians for their 2021 season. If you are interested in learning more about Caliber sponsorships and fundraisers, send us an email at info @ calibercarwash or reach out on social media – we’re always excited to support our local community!

Cheering for the Lake Wales High School Highlanders This Season

With a blowout victory already under their belt for the 2021 season, the Lake Wales Highlanders are gearing up for a huge season – and Caliber is thrilled to cheer them on as a proud sponsor!

The black and orange had a big start with a 26-0 win against Winter Haven. Caliber employee and Highlander player TJ Pierstorff says the community is in for an exciting year of Friday night lights.

“Our team has been working non-stop this summer to make sure we’re in the best shape possible both mentally and physically. We want to keep our momentum up going into our next few games – and it really makes a difference when we have fans cheering us on in the stadiums and local businesses supporting us. Football is extremely important to this community, and it means they world when they show up for us.”

As both a high school student football player and Caliber employee, TJ finds many similarities between working at the wash and playing on the field.

“I’ve always been taught that teamwork is the key to success, both on and off the field. At Caliber, our team highly values working together. Management fosters a supportive environment for our team, which allows us to grow and celebrate our successes together. It’s the same on the football field- we are stronger together than we are apart. When one of us wins, we all win- and that’s the mentality that’s so important in these team environments,” said TJ.

It’s that team mentality that TJ has been taught since a young age – he started playing when he was 11 years old in 6th grade. TJ has played several different positions in his career, including defensive end, defensive tackle, offensive tackle, nose guard, and center. He says football means the world to him, as his father won two state championships as a coach and also played in high school.

“The Lake Wales program has definitely changed my life. I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to play with some of my best friends. And there were also a few of the older, more experienced players who would always be there for me when I needed it, and those bonds translate on the field,” said TJ.

Caliber is honored to support our Highlanders as a 2021 Banner Level sponsor. If you are interested in learning more about their upcoming season or would like to see a schedule, you can check it out here.

If you are interested in learning more about Caliber sponsorships and fundraisers, send us an email at info @ calibercarwash or reach out on social media – we’re always excited to support our local community!

This Sports Enthusiast Is Ready to Show Smyrna How to Shine

Meet Josh, our Atlanta Braves fanatic, who is ready to show you the superior customer service and shine Caliber has to offer!

Josh joined the Caliber family in 2021 as manager of the new Smyrna location. The Georgia native has a passion for community, and is most looking forward to getting Caliber involved in local events and organizations, as well as meeting his new neighbors.

I love Smyrna and I love the community aspect that they have. They have a lot of community events that I’m excited to get Caliber involved in. Knowing Caliber, we love the community, and the community loves us back!” said Josh.

Growing up, Josh says he was taught the importance of hard work and dedication, and he’s now excited to build a Caliber team on those same foundations. He says he’s also proud to have opportunity for growth within a company that values people.

“My dad is a veteran and I grew up in a military family. We pride ourselves on hard work and achieving every goal we set out to do. That was one of the main attractions about Caliber- we offer military discounts. I love a company that prides themselves on taking care of veterans of all branches,” said Josh.

During his free time, you might find Josh spending time with the friends and family or enjoying the local community. You definitely won’t see Josh passing on a Braves game- he’s an Atlanta sports enthusiast to the core!

“I’m an avid Atlanta fan, and I go to a lot of Braves games! When my teams do well, I feel great.”

At Caliber, Josh is an avid believer that teamwork is vital to the success of every location and is ready to foster a positive environment for his entire team.

“It starts with the employees. We do a great job of taking care of our employees and that translates to our customers. That’s a huge plus of my day – I love being able to interact with customers and showing them a high quality, high Caliber wash,” said Josh.

Come by and meet Josh today at our Smyrna location – and don’t forget to ask him about our Limitless membership options!

Three Cheers for the Forest High School Wildcats in Ocala

Caliber is excited to sponsor the 2021-2022 Forest High School Football and Cheerleading team! We’re a proud supporter of our local community schools and look forward to what this season has to bring for the Ocala area.

As the birthplace of Caliber’s owners and home to our flagship wash, Ocala holds a special place in the history and journey of Caliber. We are thrilled to be able to support a program that brings our community together while also enriching the lives of our future athletes and leaders. With several Forest alumni currently on staff at Ocala, we’re proud to back the talented Wildcats in their upcoming season.

“The Wildcats Football and Cheerleading programs helped shape me into the person I am today. As a former football player, the strong leadership skills and work ethic I learned through being on the team has given me the chance to be successful in all areas of life. I’m proud to say I’m a Wildcat alumnus and can’t wait to see what this season has to offer!” said Caliber employee Johnny.

With the season kicking off mid-August, the Wildcats are in for an exciting season on the field competing with surrounding schools- all to bring them to the top. If you want to check out a game, you can find their schedule here.