(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best automotive tools & equipment

I've always struggled to keep my vehicles clean because 1) they were always old, 2) I've lived in condos, 3) car washes did a terrible job / detailers charged too much, and 4) I didn't realize you could do all of this yourself pretty effectively.


When I bought a new truck at the beginnging of the year, I randomly stumbled upon an Ammo NYC video and the nerd / clean-freak was intrigued. A couple dozen videos later, and I was hooked. Shout out to Larry for your passion - thank you for the insane amount of information on your channel. (Wish I could afford all of your products, or that you had some of them on Amazon!).

Living in a condo, I have to swing by my local coin wash and take up a bay with a few buckets during off-peak hours, but I've gotten it down to 1.5 hours and looking like this every time.

I've only been doing this for a few months, but thought I'd share the products I've researched and selected based on reviews and costs. Hope this helps save someone time!

TOOLS

• McGuire-Nicholas 22015 15-Inch Collapsible Tote - https://amzn.to/2HXGsvd - I love this thing. Handle is sturdy and holds every chemical I need.
  
• Relentless Drive Ultimate Car Wash Mitt - https://amzn.to/2KJC7td - Great mitt and would strongly recommend it. I've only used the mitt for a few washes so I can't comment on durability, but if I had to guess I think it's going to hold up. My only complaint is that it's so voluminous that it's difficult to rinse / wring out the dirt when using the two-bucket method. Not a big enough problem to look for another mitt, though.
  
  BUCKETS
  
  
• Chemical Guys ACC_101 Detailing Bucket Kit - https://amzn.to/2KJb552 - a good starter bucket, but it's worth calling out how much of this stuff is BS marketing: the bucket is only 4 gallons, the gamma lid can be bought for cheaper on amazon, the citrus gloss is OK, and the wash mitt is worthless / isn't going to hold up. I barely used the mitt once and fuzz falls off constantly when handling.
  
• Adam's Grit Guard Wash Bucket with Lid - https://amzn.to/2IoSflo - Better value than chemical guys, but the bucket is just a regular bucket ($4 at Home Depot) and the gamma lid can be purchased for $10-15 on Amazon. I'm not convinced grit guards are worth it, but more on that later.
  
• Grit Guard Washboard Bucket Insert - https://amzn.to/2HW4juZ - the product is well made and does what it's intended to do, but I'm skeptical of its value. Yes, rubbing your mitt on a washboard would intuitively get dirt to fall off, but is it actually more effective than using your hands (which you do anyway to wring out the mitt)? And I'm not buying that the fins "trap dirt." Anybody who looks at their rinse bucket while washing wheels for example can plainly see the water's black. Dirt's floating everywhere.
  
  
  CHEMICALS
  
  
• Mothers 08216 California Gold Instant Detailer - https://amzn.to/2KJ2f7t - this stuff has done a pretty good job for quick wipe-downs, spot cleans, etc.
  
• Griot's Garage 11108 Window Cleaner - https://amzn.to/2Iq5CSF - The spray bottle itself is awesome and works really well. The solution also seems to work well, though I've only ever used it after washing the truck and so I'm not sure how much it helps.
  
• Meguiar's G3626 Ultimate Waterless Wash & Wax - https://amzn.to/2jFg3DJ - I used this a few times with the microfiber directional pass method after some serious pollen clouds invaded Austin, and it worked surprisingly well. Ran through 3-4 towels to do my entire truck, then spot-cleaned with an instant detailer. Even though wheel wells and a few pieces were still dirty, it was a huge improvement without the hassle of a full wash. Will definitely be using this as my in-between wash method.
  
• Chemical Guys V7 High Gloss Spray Sealant and Quick Detailer - https://amzn.to/2HXiQ9R - I'm new to detailing, but this stuff is probably the most impressive chemical of everything I've used. The combination of a damp microfiber + V7 produces the result everyone thinks about when they think about car washes: a clean car with no streaks or water spots. Wringing out my microfiber towel can get old, but the end result is just awesome.
  
• Chemical Guys Citrus Wash and Gloss - https://amzn.to/2I1knvx - I don't have the luxury of a frother right now, but from simply adding some in a bucket and using a power washer to generate suds, I get decent foam and the soap seems to work well. That said, it's not earth-shattering and I will probably try other washes when I run out.
  
  
  INTERIOR
  
  
• Mothers 06512 All-In-One Leather Care - https://amzn.to/2IlawAg - This stuff works great and smells even better.
  
  
  WHEELS
  
  
• Adam's Deep Wheel Cleaner - https://amzn.to/2K09l6f - The spray bottle is terribly difficult to press and I always end up using way more than I want. I'm not confident I need to use this instead of just using soap. Maybe it's for exceptionally dirty cars or those with tons of brake dust, but I'm rarely in either camp so I may not buy some more after I run out.
  
• Adam's Hex-Grip Pro Tire Dressing Applicator - https://amzn.to/2HYtb5y - Works well and easy to handle.
  
• Mothers Wheel Brush - https://amzn.to/2K0Ky1Y - really like how easy this is to handle and how soft the bristles are. Highly recommended.
  
• Optimum Opti-Bond Tire Gel - https://amzn.to/2KJsxGP - This is a good low-gloss gel, though I need to try additional coats to see if I can get those tire shinier.
  
• ABN Car Wheel Rim Cleaning 3-Piece Kit - https://amzn.to/2KFgSIR - Yes the big woolie has good reach and allows you to clean the inside of your rims effectively, but the handle is annoyingly difficult to hold after it becomes saturated / heavy to hold.
  
  
  TOWELS
  
  
• Chemical Guys Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold - https://amzn.to/2HY8Q0a - these things are outsidanding and are a great value. Definitely watch Larry's video on microfiber care, which fixed all of my annoyances with microfibers accruing fuzz in the dryer.
  
• THE RAG COMPANY EAGLE EDGELESS 500 Korean 70/30 Super Plush 500gsm Microfiber Detailing Towels - https://amzn.to/2HYVmky - very high plush and high quality, though I end up using the Chemical Guys towels more often and save these for random spot details. Probably not ideal.
  
• THE RAG COMPANY Premium Window, Glass, Mirror & Chrome Korean 70/30 Microfiber - https://amzn.to/2rrveVg - work great for cleaning windows and mirrors.
  
• Nylon Laundry Bag - https://amzn.to/2rtYOcP - I have one bag for clean and one for dirty. Has done a great job of keeping dust off the rags during storage.

I'm reposting some suggestions I made from a previous similar thread, hope it works out for you (the last person's budget was $100; not sure what yours is, but you can pick and choose!)

 

Optimum No Rinse: Concentrated and capable of being diluted as a wash, quick detailer, clay lubricant, window cleaner, light interior cleaner, and more.

Optimum Opti-Seal: Incredibly easy to use sealant (wipe on and walk away!), can be used in place of RainX on windows, good drying aid, and useful as an interior dressing as well. Opti-seal ALL the things!

Detailing brushes: Because every detailer can use more brushes!

Nanoskin Autoscrub Sponge: Makes the process of decontaminating your paint much faster. Much longer life than clay and can be used even after dropped on the ground! Use the ONR as lubricant and you save tons of money.

The Rag Company Eagle Edgeless Towels, 4 pack: These will be the best towels he's ever used.

The total for all of this should be $97.96, just under your budget :)

 

A couple other suggestions if you want to mix and match:

Smaller Opti-Seal: Since it's the biggest budget item here and a little goes a long way, you can go with the small one to include more items in your bundle.

Adam's Wheel Cleaner: The least terrible smelling wheel cleaner, but extremely effective as well. Good if that truck throws a lot of brake dust.

CarPro PERL: For protecting exterior plastics as well as dressing them, and for use as a satin look tire dresing.

Wheel Woolies: Makes cleaning wheels a much nicer experience, and won't fling brake dust into your face like the brushes do.

Hope this helps! If you want any more specific recommendations for any category, feel free to ask! As for things to avoid, Armorall, Turtlewax and Chemical Guys in my opinion.

This a a copy reply to a post from yesterday with pretty much the same question. This should help. YouTube the "Garry Dean Wash method" and do it that way.
___
Look into towels from The rag Company the [Eagle Edgeless] (https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B00GXRG64I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465578999&sr=8-1&keywords=rag+company) , [platinum pluffle] (https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B01691FHKQ/ref=pd_sim_263_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51ZnYnkDerL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=T72HWKSGJSNY28KCRR5N) and the [creature edgless] (https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Dual-Pile-Microfiber/dp/B01CW21D9U/ref=pd_sim_263_23?ie=UTF8&dpID=61mdEodibyL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=4930TCHKYCSNPB5QDMAF) are my favorite. They are just better quality then CG towels and are perfect for using the "Garry Dean" wash method which is good for apartment dwellers.

EDIT: Also look into [WolfGang Uber] (https://www.amazon.com/Wolfgang-WG-3700-Uber-Rinse-less/dp/B017KSJ5ZK/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1465579171&sr=1-1&keywords=wolfgang+uber) rinseless wash. Its more costlier but WELL WORTH it to me. I just got a gallon of it from their website. I use it for my business on some customers vehicles and they notice when I do. Its by far my favorite rinseless out there that I have used. I have tried numerous different ones. [ONRWW] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GG9FB8U/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465708329&sr=sr-1&keywords=optimum+no+rinse+wash+%26+wax) is good, don't get me wrong but I've had it streak and [ONR] (https://www.amazon.com/Optimum-NR2010Q-Rinse-Wash-Shine/dp/B00D8DR0AO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1465708329&sr=8-2&keywords=optimum+no+rinse+wash+%26+wax) stains my wash media. I've never had a single issue with WG Uber and it smells like cherry candy. I feel like drinking the bottle every time I use it which makes it great to work with.

lol why would you use a toothbrush unless you're a masochist!?

You can buy brushes that are like $6-$11 each, with varying bristle stiffness, and they last years.

I bought 3 Mothers brushes like 3 years ago and I'm still using them.

wheel contour brush. Hard bristles, great for tires and rim face.

long handle brush. Medium bristles, great for wheel wells and your wheel's barrel.

Wheel brush. a bonus brush if your feeling a bit extra. Has really soft bristles. Really gets a great lather going on your wheels.

Here's all the stuff I use :)

• Cobra Guzzler HD Waffle Weave Drying Towel 16 x 24 inches http://www.autogeek.net/cobra-guzzler-hd-towel.html (this is a must-have)
  
• Pinnacle Signature Series II Carnauba Wax http://www.autogeek.net/pisisepawax.html (by far my favorite wax for my CW GTI)
  
• Chemical Guys Silk Shine http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-TVD10916-Sprayable-Dressing/dp/B001TI1F5Q (works great as a tire dressing and to shine up the plastics)
  
• Stoner Invisible Glass Cleaner http://www.amazon.com/Stoner-92196-6PK-Invisible-Glass-Cleaner/dp/B00BUL1KRK
  
• Nu Finish Liquid Car Polish http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BPSW7C/ (this is an amazing polish...)
  
• Viking Blue Microfiber Wax Applicator http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051MYL8E/ (cheap and they work well, even after throwing them in the wash after several times)
  
• Meguiar's Ultimate Quik Wax http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O7PNS2/ (I use this for the quick wax jobs, like inside the trunk hood/trunk/door.)
  
• Meguiar's Ultimate Quik Detailer http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RXNLK6/ (I use it for basically everything outside the car to touch up. I even clean the inside of the rims and exhaust tips with it)
  
• Meguiar's Quik Interior Detailer Cleaner http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G13616-Interior-Detailer-Cleaner/ (better than Armor All IMHO and it works well. Doesn't leave any nasty grease/shiny spots)
  
• Griot's Garage Micro Fiber Wheel Wand http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004YMRIC8/ (love these)
  
• Sonax Wheel Cleaner http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003UT3S6Q/ (the chemical smell is harsh, but it works wonders!)
  
• Eurow Microfiber Towels 16in x 16in 36-Pack http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0031B4YU2/ (some cheap microfibers and they hold up pretty well. I like the fact that they're yellow so you know when you should throw one out.)
  

Wow. I should get into paint correction. <$250 for all the tools and polish and waxes. As a car guy, I don't mind waxing my car every 6 months (or 4 months if you're in the frigid north or are anal). I also feel it's foolish to drop $2k-4k on these nano-quartz-bullshit schemes that a lot of car guys swear by nowadays. If you want to drop $4k on paint protection, go for it, but I can get a full window-out repaint for the same price!

Here's what I learned:

Buy the equipment:

https://www.amazon.com/PORTER-CABLE-7424XP-6-Inch-Variable-Speed-Polisher/dp/B002654I46

https://www.amazon.com/Dual-Action-Hook-Flexible-Backing-Plate/dp/B0008G1RDK

https://www.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature-Microfiber-Towel-Case%2C-324-count.product.100341124.html

https://www.amazon.com/Collinite-Liquid-Insulator-Wax-845/dp/B000JK2D06

http://www.autogeek.net/lake-country-beveled-pad-kit.html (MIN: 2 orange, 2 white, 1 black, 1 blue -- I prefer doubling this order; Autogeek almost always has 10-25% off coupons on their mailing list)

You will also need an extension wire with the appropriate gauge (too thin/cheap cables might cause you to burn your Porter Cable motor!)


Buy the compounds (start with UC; if swirls aren't getting cut, move up to 50%/50% UC and 105 on the pads; finish with 205 regardless):

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G17216-Ultimate-Compound-15-2/dp/B001O7PNNM (medium aggressive)

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Glaze-Ultra-Cut-Compound/dp/B003LMGDHI (most aggressive)

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Glaze-Finishing-Polish/dp/B001O7PNXC

Wash your car with this, and the two-bucket method:

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G7164-Class-Shampoo-Conditioner/dp/B0009IQXFO

https://www.amazon.com/Zwipes-Chenille-Microfiber-Premium-Scratch-Free/dp/B002J7KCOG

Claybar the car:

https://www.amazon.com/YGDZ-Quality-Detailing-Claybar-Shipping/dp/B01MF4BVVS

It took me about 5-6 relaxed hours on a Sunday with a few beers for the full correction. Now I simply top up the wax every few months (and that only takes 30 min).

The thing is, once you do the full correction and get rid of all your swirls and scuffs and whatever clearcoat damage (wash + claybar + M105/UC + M205 + wax), then you don't have to do the FULL correction ever again.

Ever again meaning, if you wash the car properly thereafter with the two-bucket method. You'll simply need to top up the wax once it stops beading -- the wax will protect the clearcoat from damage and swirls.

My wax lasted 6+ months being daily driven in the California sun with three coats of Collinite 845 -- I assume if yours will see more snow and ice and rain, perhaps it'll only last 3-4 months. But since a bottle costs <$20 and you'll get at least 36+ layers out of it, I always recommend this versus the "nano coatings" that people are shelling out $2-4k for.

Here's the Collinite fanboy thread:

https://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles/40243-collinite-845-definitive-how-guide-legendary-wax.html

Any other questions, feel free to ask. Good luck!

Am I on the right track? I am currently looking for all the products I need to completely detail my car. I know there is no way I could purchase all of these at once, so I am planning on purchasing the major ones first and adding the others over time. I have spent almost two weeks researching on everything I need to do. There is so much information and so many opinions that it is hard to find a definitive answer on what I need.

> Wheel

Wheel soap:

• Meguiar's Non-Acid Wheel & Tire Cleaner D143
  
  Wheel cleaner:
  
  
• Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus
  
  Tire dressing:
  
  
• Optimum Opti-Bond Tire Gel
  
  Wheel wax:
  
  
• Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845
  
  > Paint
  
  Paint soap:
  
  
• Meguiar's Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner
  
  Paint soap addition:
  
  
• Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine
  
  Leaf blower:
  
  
• Worx Turbine WG520
  
  Clay bar:
  
  
• YGDZ Auto Detailing Magic Claybar
  
  Dual action polisher:
  
  
• Heavy Duty Dual Action Variable Speed Polisher from Harbor Freight
  
  Backing plate:
  
  
• Astro 5" PU Velcro Backing Pad
  
  Pad:
  
  
• Lake Country 5.5" CCS Orange Polishing Pad
  
  
• Lake Country 5.5" CCS White Smart Pad
  
  
• Lake Country 5.5" CCS Black Finessing Pad
  
  Compound:
  
  
• Meguiar's M105 Mirror Glaze Ultra-Cut Compound
  
  Polish:
  
  
• Meguiar's M205 Mirror Glaze Ultra Finishing Polish
  
  Sealant/wax:
  
  
• Collinite Liquid Insulator Wax #845
  
  > Interior
  
  Carpet cleaner:
  
  
• Adam's Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
  
  Dashboard cleaner:
  
  
• Nextzett Cockpit Premium or Meguiar's Ultimate Interior Detailer
  
  Leather cleaner:
  
  
• Nextzett Cockpit Premium or Meguiar's Ultimate Interior Detailer
  
  Leather conditioner:
  
  
• Lexol Leather Deep Conditioner
  
  Glass cleaner:
  
  
• Rain-X Glass Cleaner
  
  There are a bunch of other tools not listed here, but the ones listed above are the areas I am most concerned about.
  
  > Other Concerns
  
  I am still anxious about spraying water in my engine bay, so I decided to use a spray bottle with soap and water and a microfiber towel to wipe down the engine bay while it is still decently clean. Can I use diluted Meguiar's D143 or will I have to purchase Meguiar's D101 instead? Can the Optimum Tire Gel be used on the black plastics of the engine bay, as well as the other black trims of my car?
  
  I want to protect my interior, in addition to cleaning it. I am very confused on what product I need to use to protect my dashboard from the sun. The same goes for the leather seats, where the creases are forming. I have been using a conditioner (although I am unsure of the exact name) to slow down the crease formation. Should I use the same product for both the dashboard and leather seats (with Lexol Conditioner on top of that)? I have heard of Leatherique Leather Rejuvenator/Prestine Clean, but I am unsure of when I should use that.

Looks like they make them in blue as well, but this is what I referring to: https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Diamond-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B07GWXQSPZ/ref=sr_1_11?keywords=the+rag+company+glass&qid=1573575387&sr=8-11

Honestly, not 100% sold on these as the low pile side of the creature seems to do a pretty good job on glass as well. They're not super expensive, so you're not out a bunch of money if you don't like them.

You don’t have to use the brush or anything. You can just do the prewash or first setting to get the car wet. Then the pressure soap and wax, and then the rinse setting. After that use a micro fiber drying towel like this to dry your car and then you are done. The drying towel absorbs water better so it will dry the car better. Also, if you want to learn to detail your car and make the paint look excellent I recommend watching YouTube videos on the two bucket cleaning method where you use buckets and a microfiber wash mitt.

These look nice for the price https://www.amazon.com/Zwipes-879-2-Professional-Microfiber-Waffle/dp/B01F6KPL6Q

And yeah you don’t absolutely
Need the pressure washer, I would spray the car down really good with a hose before starting with the mit though as being wet will keep friction way down and hopefully reduce grinding anything in to the paint.

That’s basically what the soap cannon does is help reduce friction drastically.

Just remember not to go I circles.

Pick a panel and go left to right or right to left from
Top to bottom and always rinse before going back up. You’ll get the hang of it

COCODE Detail Brush (Set of 5), Auto Detailing Brush Set Perfect for Car Motorcycle Automotive Cleaning Wheels, Dashboard, Interior, Exterior, Leather, Air Vents, Emblems https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0716T78KV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_b4g8Cb7MV9JBE

I recently got these. Good quality with 5 different size brushes at a great price.

Electric power wash my pretty lady (pic linked here).

YouTube "sheeting your car dry". This helps SO much with towel drying.

Meguiar's G10307 ScratchX 2.0 for removing small scratches and swirls. Has worked great for me.

Electric Power Washer

TriNova Foam Cannon

Chemical Guys Honeydew Snow Foam

I think you are over-thinking this man. Cleaning a tire is pretty basic stuff. Get a brush made for cleaning tires (I use this one), spray the tire liberally with cleaner or APC, let the solution dwell for a minute or two, and then scrub the tire in a circular motion around the rim. You'll see the dirt and whatnot in the foam of the cleaner. It the cleaner doesn't turn brown or black then you are good. If it looks really gunky, then do another application.

Edit: You are only cleaning the sidewall and maybe a small bit of the tread on the edge. Don't bother cleaning the tread of the tire.

I’m not sure if the rag company sells them on amazon as I got them direct from them but their black diamond towel is awesome.

Edit: heres a link

I would recommend something like this, which is a stiffer, but safe brush. Otherwise, you can use something like these for more sensitive jobs in & out of the car.

You can take paint transfer off your car with some polish and an applicator pad:

Polish: https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G19220-Ultimate-Polish-fluid_ounces/dp/B004HCOE8Q/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=meguiars%2Bpolish&qid=1556888366&s=gateway&sr=8-3&th=1

Applicator: https://www.amazon.com/Viking-Car-Care-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B001GJ9JV0/ref=sr_1_3?crid=TF14W8WDIISK&keywords=polish%2Bapplicator&qid=1556888486&s=gateway&sprefix=polish%2Bappl%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-3&th=1

I've used this method before, works great. Just remember to clean the area before and after, and consider adding some wax after.

Ah, I see!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDN72WK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZK7Uzb2QRVCKE

These are my favorite multipurpose towels, I mainly use them for buffing off compound and wax residue but they're actually listed in the drying section of the websites product page so they should be perfect for what you're describing.

All of the other advice mentioned and: Lint-free cloths. Yes, indeed. If you do a lot of records at once you'll be happy you bought them. Got my from Amazon, this:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0031B4YU2/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00

Note: wash them first before using them. "Lint-free" is an earned name.

Sure thing! $18 on Amazon. Here you go:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DKC6IY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_MWRaBbN5EZXP7

And I used Meguiar’s Gold Class soap, $10 for a gallon at Advance Auto. And I picked up four (2 2-packs) of these in X-Large size (having 4 is nice because you clean one section of the car with one, then grab a brand new one for the next section of car, no rinsing required):

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iYRaBb1CG00GR

And lastly, a 9-pack of these:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S1U5TWA?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Oh, and a wheel brush:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GJ3DZS?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I purchased these [ (9-Pack) THE RAG COMPANY 16 in. x 16 in. Professional 70/30 Blend 420 GSM Dual-Pile Plush Microfiber Auto Detailing Towels - Spectrum 420 DARK PACK https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00S1U5TWA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_fIccBb9QV7B0T ] since I'm new to the detailing world and so far I've been blown away by the quality. I didn't wanna break the bank but wanted something that was of quality and I think this is the sweet spot. I've used cheapo towels before on my shitty cars and they always left behind fibers and didn't do a very good job. These however are perfect compared to what I've used in the past. I'd highly recommend them.

(5-Pack) THE RAG COMPANY 16 in. x 16 in. Premium Window, Glass, Mirror & Chrome Professional Korean 70/30 Microfiber LINT-FREE, STREAK-FREE Detailing Towels

These have been a godsend for me. I clean my glasses every day with one of those cloths and I haven't washed it in 6 months!

I sure hope that's the the case! what threw me off is the yellow fuzz that's around the backing plate I guess I need to just scrape that off?

Lake Country - Dual-Action Hook & Loop Flexible Backing Plate - 5 Inch Diameter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0008G1RDK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XvxDDb5JCZ0H7

If you decide to go street wash route, I suggest you consider this foam sprayer as well. Worked great for me. I may not need to use sponge.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MWHSLMY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I use this Trinova with my spx3000, and it works great. ive used meguiars gold class as well as chemical guys blacklight soaps.

Looking at microfiber towels. Is a polyester / polyamide blend desirable? I can't tell if 100% polyester would generally be better.

This one is 100% polyester, and you get 30 rags.

This one is a 80/20 blend and you get fewer. I suppose I would guess that a blend is more "premium" then?

No worries! My personal preference to clean consoles and buttons is to spray product onto a soft brush and then go over the electronics, that way there's no risk of product running down into the cracks and seeping in.

With that said, I also highly recommend brushes like these, they're much easier to work with than tooth brushes (although you still definitely want to keep a few of those in your kit for the tight nooks and crannies), especially for spots like the cup holders, door pockets, and air vents.

Microfiber for cars. I use a huge one I got off of Amazon (LINK). While I wash dishes, I'll spread one out onto my counter and stack all my dishes on there to partially drip dry, and use the second one to polish and clean everything.

I use automotive glass towels to clean all glass whether that is screens, my glasses, or the coffee table. I recommend these by The Rag Company.

I bought these brushes for $15.

I would definitely get a sealant. I like Blackfire.

Pro Tip: Only use high quality Korean microfiber cloths. Night and day difference between the usual cheap ones you find in the store.

I picked up some of these recently. Wash before first use...
THE RAG COMPANY (4-Pack) 16 in. x 16 in. Eagle EDGELESS 500 Professional Korean 70/30 Super Plush 500gsm Microfiber Detailing Towels (16x16, Ice Grey) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079Y1N9YJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_DcCDCbKJ9ESJJ

This is VERY similar, I'm guessing he just had a new bottle designed but he must have a bulk discount. The Adams one is probably a better buy, i have used both, i nether prefer one over the other.

Recently bought this Zwipes 2 pack on Amazon and have been happy with them. If you use a price tracker add on like Honey you can see they usually run for $9.99 but have spiked up recently.

https://amzn.com/B01CWP9UC4 I like these brushes a lot.

A lot of people top their sealants with a wax - I'm just not one of them. I prefer to just have my base coat of product and touch it up if necessary.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0716T78KV/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_BYMZBbZSCZBWZ Just picked these up cuz 2 of my other ones broke. They seem pretty good and durable, havent used them yet so we'll see

These may work ok, I may try them, i like the black color. But I would not run the lenes to hard with them, just brush off dust.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SENQIQA

IronX will help with the removal of any Iron product on your wheels.

and some tools:

• Speed Master PRO Wheel Brush
  
• Griot's Garage 15704 Micro Fiber Wheel Wand

Hello! I bought a new car a little over a month ago and I wanted to do some basic cleaning with it, stuff that can be done maybe a couple times a month, since I never personally did that with my previous car.

Anyways, I live in SoCal so I'm trying to keep water usage to a minimum. This is my current "to-purchase" list that I'd like to buy soon;

ONR

iK Sprayer

Iron X

TRC Creature Edgeless 10pack

Mother's Tire Brush

ABN Wheel Woolies

Stoner's Reach Tool

Already have: Stoner's Invisible Glass, Costco multipack MF towels.

Will I still want to get a clay bar + wax for after washing, or is just washing every so often enough?

The one thing I'd add is that the supplied towels aren't that great and will get wet fast. Drop like $25 or so and buy a brick of microfiber cloths on Amazon, etc. I got these.

Just be sure to wash them a couple of times, with no fabric softener, and store them in a sealed/clean container.

I then place 4 of them down. I use one to dry the record on (using a dry towel - I have 36 of 'em), and then place the record on one of the other three to further air-dry. After each one, I wipe any air-drying ones with yet another dry cloth (I call it "the finisher") and flip 'em. Once I fill three of my air-drying towels, and all of those records have been flipped and gone over with the "finisher", I pack up the oldest one, and go grab another one off of the stack.

I just continue in that cycle, swapping out my hand-drying towel with the "finisher", and grabbing a new dry "finisher" from my stock of clean ones.

Cleaning 40-ish records I may use 10 towels.

TriNova Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit Best Set for Detailing Trucks or SUVs (Foam Gun Only) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072JNQQY9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_QZMvCbVF7FAZF

I got this set and they are nice.. my old ones are better but they're not sold anymore..


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0716T78KV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_uTi9BbM52FSV9

I already noticed that cleaning causes those tiny microscratches you can see under light at an angle, so I was trying to go gentle :c

using these btw: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IDN72WK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

maybe I will go with the Sprayway but harder

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00GXRFOVE

I got them from amazon because I have prime so I got free two day shipping. I love them. I cannot say enough how much the process I described helped me in Windows. I do 5-20 cars a day... No matter what I did I always had issues with windows. Whether streaking, smearing or haze.. . Now it only happens if the rag is dirty

They seem to be these ones but I'd rather let my (currently anonymous) santa chime in :P

https://www.amazon.com/Detail-Buddy-Premium-Interior-Leather/dp/B01CWP9UC4/ref=lp_14334740011_1_2?srs=14334740011&ie=UTF8&qid=1500185602&sr=8-2

WARNING: The post above is full of referral links.

Here's a copy with all of OP's referral links removed:

CART

• WEN 7300 Utility Cart
  
• Tornado Hooks of Various Sizes
  
• Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
  
• Basic Wood Screws
  
  
  PRODUCTS
  
  
• CG Best Selling Products Kit
  
• CG Honey Dew Snow Foam
  
• CG Butter Wet Wax
  
• CG Diablo Wheel Gel
  
• CG V7 Hybrid Quick Detailer
  
• CG Jet Seal
  
• CG VRP Dressing
  
• CG Bug and Tar Remover
  
• CG Glossworkx Glaze
  
• CarPro Iron X
  
• Shine Society Glass Cleaner
  
• Black Mamba Black Gloves
  
• Zwipes Waffle Weave Towel
  
• 50 Pack of Microfiber Towels
  
• Detailers Brush
  
• Wheel Brush
  
• Viking Wheel Brush
  
  EQUIPMENT
  
  
• Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer
  
• Sun Joe Pressure Washer Extension Cord
  
• MATCC Snow Foamer
  
• Extension Cord 50ft
  
• TORQ Orbital Polisher
  
  
  

I picked up these similar brushes, and they're nowhere near as nice as these that I get at Lowes.

If you go this route, do yourself a favor and throw the backing plate that comes with the HF DA in the trash. I returned my first one because the stem was bent and the second one was just as bad.

I picked up one of these to go with my Lake Country 5.5 inch pads
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0008G1RDK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

do the knockdown pass with whatever microfiber, do a follow up buffing pass with a glass specific towel. no product on the second pass. https://smile.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-STREAK-FREE/dp/B00GXRFOVE/

Some of these are handy

https://www.amazon.com/COCODE-Detailing-Motorcycle-Automotive-Dashboard/dp/B0716T78KV/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1499994546&sr=8-9&keywords=detailing+brush

I have this particular set. I use the big one for scrubbing my wheels and the smallest one for interior. Spray some apc on em, or even some optimum no rinse, and scrub away. Though, you may want to be careful around piano black surfaces. Im not sure if theyll scratch or not. They seem pretty soft, though.

I used the nanoskin sponge to clay the entire car since the car is pretty new. I let the wax sit for an hour. I've never had much success with 845 even on different cars. I get about maybe 2 weeks MAX. That's on all waxes I have used. I always just wrote it off as my car not being able to be garaged and maybe dirty/mineraly hard water that my city has to use. Also, the way that I'm checking if the wax is still there is by observing how/if the water beads after rinsing and how the paint feels. Most of the time, it's no longer silky smooth and the water doesn't bead in nice circles anymore. The water beads in messy blobs.

 

My process goes:

1. Foam (let sit 3-5 minutes or until foam falls off)
   
2. Rinse
   
3. 2 bucket hand wash with gritgaurds panel by panel
   
4. Dry and/or nanoskin or clay
   
5. Apply wax panel by panel (let sit 1 hour after all panels have wax applied)
   
6. Clean windows and interior as I wait for wax
   
7. Wipe off wax
   
   This takes me about 4 hours...
   
    
   
   The products I use:
   
   

• Adams Car Shampoo
  
• The Rag Company Microfiber Mitt
  
• The Rag Company Window Towels
  
• The Rag Company Drying Towels
  
• The Rag Company Eagle Edgeless (to remove wax)
  
• Collinite 845 Insulator Wax
  
• SunJoe Electric Pressure Washer w/ MTM Foam Cannon
  Optum
  
• Optimum No Rinse & Shine as quick detailer/drying aid/clay lube
  
• Meguiar's Glass Cleaner

These Griot's ones on Amazon are cheaper, though still a bit pricy, but I've had them for over a year and have no complaints. Have held up well. https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B004YMRIC8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1