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.

/u/daniell61 is all about that detailing. Here's a recent comment from him

---

do you know if that [bike] is primarily plastic or primarily metal?

for metal polishes (non painted) I can recommend marine 31's metal polish. shit works wonders on oxidized metals!!! (its my go to for non painated)



leather? any car marketed leather cleaner would be fine. I prefer mckees37 or meguiars to be fair.

for plastics I like this. a lot

leahter cleaner here

for learning these microfibers are a good cost effective start and you wont be hurt when they die and you replace them.

I can recommend any mckees37 towels or the rag company microfibers.

this or 3D pink soap (dirt cheap but i love it) is a great soap for washing without stripping waxes!


if you're like me and dont have time to clean...

once you're done. spray this and wash it off and boom bam you're set to go and have a good quality glass silia coating! here

I like mckees products a fair bit ;)

for sake of easy ass waxing I like extender wax but I do also like meguiars quik wax. that stuffs damn cheap but good. sadly its carnuba only :(

---

here's another one

---

TLDR rinse bucket and bucket with soap. use auto products. dont drop your MF cloths.


Personally I'd pick up a shampoo/conditioner and a basic wash mit thats microfiber made (attracts dirt better and wont mar your question)

(I can recommend 3D pink shampoo. cheap AND I love it)

next up a light compound (you can use meguiars ultimate compound. cheap inexpensive and hard to mess up) this brings out that POP in paint pretty easy to use with a hand applicator which are also cheap :)

next upppp paint polish. this is VERY subjective. I prefer mckees37 stuff but its more expensive than most like. I can also recommend meguiars ultimate polish. good and inexpensive :)

after wards you'll need a wax. meguiars ultimate liquid wax is a great starter and once again inexpensive. (I prefer trademark extender/policoat form mckees37) easy on easy off if you're taking you're time.

afterwards you can call it quits and bam you're done.

or keep going and seal your paint to keep that POP lasting. I HIGHLY recommend collinite 845 as its inexpensive as hell and STUPID easy to apply!!

also Mckees 37 SIO 2 ceramic coating is even easier but $.

then theres coatings. you can use something like Cquarts or even carpro....I personally juse use SIO2 from mckees37 currently. spray on wash off bam. not as effective but beyond stupid easy.


oh and also pick up some microfiber cloths of your choice. theres no right/wrong for them other than DONT DROP EM AND KEEP EM CLEAN.


links to products named

ultimate megs wax

ultimate polish megs

sio 2 coating 10% off ad warning


trademark extender wax spray

3D pink car soap/shampoo


collinite 845

ultimate compound megs

ultimate liquid wax -bigger AG carried

megs ult polish AG carried

Autogeek also price matches to a fair extent! and IF you're local you can pick up. :D


these microfibers are damn nice but $

I personally use these and they're lit. 16 pack and heavy duty enough to last a while

wash mitt I use


even NEW I can highly recommend clay baring your paint dis or the kit if you're new


oh and IF your brake pads literally ooze brake dust....this stuff takes time but takes care of the dust easily linky smells WAY better than carpro even at a lower concentration :p

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.

Detailing products are usually not cheap. The best way to save money is to buy in bulk (gallon size), you'll save over time rather than having to go to autozone to buy more soaps, waxes, microfiber towels, wheel cleaners.

Will save you money for years. For instance Meguiar's glass cleaner (gallon concentrated). $20, dilute 10-1 with distilled water, you just bought yourself 10 years worth of glass cleaner. I'd say buying in gallon concentrated gives you a 5x better value over buying the parts-store consumer stuff. I know because ive already spent probably hundreds at autozone / parts stores on just car shampoos and glass cleaner just taking care of a Camry.

Meguiar's Shampoo Plus (amazon link)

Meguiar's Glass Cleaner (amazon)

Meguiar's Xpress Spray Wax (amazon)

Also the Last Touch detailer, wheel cleaners, interior cleaners, leather products. All good value.

etc. Compare the costs to parts-store grade products.



Kirkland microfiber towels (amazon) good for basic jobs that you don't want to use more expensive towels on.

Save all your spray bottles bottles of spray wax, interior cleaners, glass cleaner sprays, etc to recycle & reuse. Put the gallon-sized concentrated versions in them, re-label the bottle with a sharpie. You just saved $25 in bottles costs.

Invisible Glass Reach and Clean tool. This saves your back and neck muscles from becoming dislocated trying to reach into corners while cleaning glass. This tool is an essential in my book. I think its $15-20.

For DA polishing, look into the meguiar's DA microfiber system. You want the one with the 5" backing plate. Also buying in bulk principle also works here, you'll want a lot of buffing wheels so buy the 12-pack. amazon link

You'll want a clay bar kit. Meguiar's clay bar kit is a good value, I like that it comes with a case to store the clay.

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.

I would have taken more photos but I didn't set out with the intention of making a post; however, when I saw the results I knew I had to.

Like I said, this mini van only set me back $300. But just because it's a cheap turd doesn't mean you can't take some pride in it and at least put a ribbon on it.

Anyways, I'll add some more details left out of the post.

First I mixed up regular ole dish soap and water and grabbed some 1000 grit wet/dry sand paper, dunked it in the solution and let it soak while I taped off my headlights. I don't think you have to let it soak, but that's what I did. Once I finished taping off the lights, I started wet sanding and just redunked as needed for adequate lubrication.

Now I've read some posts on here about people saying it's easier to see when you're done sanding if you go in one direction for a certain grit and the opposite in another so you can see sanding lines. I didn't do that either. I just sanded it til I felt it was smooth and/or had been doing it for a couple minutes; up, down, left, right, circles. Whatever. It worked out for me.

Repeat exact same procedure for 2000 grit wet/dry sand paper.

Now, if you've never done this before you might start to get nervous, because at this stage your headlights look (somehow) even worse than when you started. Fret not my friend. Patience is a virtue.

Now I have a DA polisher, but these headlights are narrow. So I opted at just purchasing a generic named 3" backing plate, drill adapter and pad combo set off amazon. Some of the reviews said it wasn't the greatest. But that was fine by me. I just wanted them for this headlight. Those reviewers are wrong. I think they were thinking you could do an entire vehicle with these 3" pads. The pads and backing plate were high quality and for that price, even if they weren't I wouldn't have been all that upset. I highly recommend these.

I used the two flat top oranges pads for this project. First I used M105. Polished til it "flashed" then buffed it off with a microfiber towel. Switched to my other orange pad and polished with M205 following the same procedure.

Then I stood in awe of how great they came out. Did a wipe down with isopropyl alcohol, and two coats of collinite 845 that I applied with some cheap microfiber applicators for future uv protection.

Then I went and excitedly rushed my girlfriend outside to see. She was impressed but decidedly less than me.

Also, while I was doing this, a man approached me and asked me how much I'd charge to do his car. I talked with him a bit, and informed him that for the price I would charge to do his one car he'd be better off doing some research, buying his own supplies and just learning a new skill. He thought about it and excitedly told me he already had a drill and that he decided he'd do it. He went on to say he was also going to do not just his car, but also his mom's car and his girlfriend's car. He wrote down everything I said! Haha,I hope his come out as well as mine!

Edit: formatting/spelling

First of all, here's a link with some pictures: https://imgur.com/a/DdDMX8f

I just bought this car two weekends ago and I'm stoked. I have washed it once (normal two-bucket method, no polish/wax). I'm going to plan for a more in-depth detail this coming or the following weekend, so I'm planning on making some purchases and wanted to run them by you guys! My general plan is do a foam cannon spray, rest a little bit, rinse, decontaminate w/ Griot's Speed Shine and Griot's Synthetic Clay.

After decontamination, in the long run, I would like to put a coat of CQuartz. Beforehand, obviously, I need to remove as many of the swirls/scratches as possible. I don't have any experience yet with compounding/polishing so do you think I should try it first before buying the CQuartz, or should I just go for it?

Here's what I'd like to buy:

1. Soap - Currently I have a bottle of some basic Meguiars cheap stuff that I was using on my previous old cars. After reading around some, I was going to either go with Gold Class or Optimum Car Wash. CarPro Reset is another option for me as I would like to apply CQuartz eventually so I want something without additives and waxes. Currently I have Optimum Car Wash in my cart, any reason I should go with anything else? I know everyone raves about ONR, but is that more for maintenance washes? Haven't looked into it much yet.
   
2. Snow foam - Chemical Guys Honeydew Snow Foam. I have a small bottle of this and I like the results, so I may buy a gallon unless I'm convinced otherwise!
   
3. Drying Towel - I have plenty of normal microfiber towels for touching up and interior work, but I don't have dedicated large drying towels. The Meguiar's X2000 drying towel was recommended a couple places on the sub and it seems like a good value; but I have heard Griot's is good as well. Any thoughts?
   
4. Polisher - Griot's Garage 6" DA Polisher. From what I have read, this seems to be one of the best-rated entry-level polishers. I haven't done enough research yet to know what type of pads/liquids I will need based on my specific paint, so I'll save those decisions for another day. The car was mostly well taken care of but there are a couple etched spots from what I'm assuming was bird poop or sap. There are a couple pictures in the album of this. Other than that, there seem to be an average amount of "swirl" marks but I'll need to do more research to determine what level of liquid/pads I need. I took the photos in the morning so I didn't have a good light source to show the "swirls".
   
   I already have some good stuff for cleaning wheels and I've been using Griot's Interior Detailer for the interior and it seems to be doing a good enough job. The interior isn't very dirty so just light cleaning suffices.
   
   As for CQuartz prep, before I am more confident in the paint correction process, should I apply a wax after polishing, or will that just make it more of a pain in the ass to decontaminate the paint when I decide to apply CQuartz in the next month or so? FYI, I'm going to be reading the DA polishing guides on this sub before I buy anything related to that.
   
   Any comments or suggestions on things I have selected?
   
   Thanks!

Great timing on the question I'm looking to treat my Demonic Red leather seats and love the matte finish. My seats generally stay clean, so a dry soft microfiber is what I have been using. I'm looking to protect and treat the leather to keep it from cracking over time, while NOT adding shine.

​

I didn't do such a good job treating my scat pack seats and after 4 years noticed the beginning of wear and creases. Not really noticeable to the normal person, but my OCD was triggered... I had been using Turtle wax blue Ice which is great 1 step for cleaning and protecting normal leather or fake leather, but not really a good regimen for protecting soft leathers.

​

I've been researching for a while and found my 2 go to brands have products that "allegedly" work really well at cleaning and conditioning without adding shine. It's really tough to find good true reviews with all the sponsored content out there. These are the 2 products I plan to order and test.

​

• Chemical guys cleaner and conditioner $19.00
  
• Adam's cleaner and conditioner $28.89
  
  ​
  
  The basic process is to clean the leather with a proper leather cleaner first to remove any dirt and oils from your skin that build up over time, this can create issues with the leather even though you condition regularly. Once you have a clean surface you can then treat with conditioner, let soak in, then buff off. I'll be using my favorite microfiber towels 1 for cleaning 1 for conditioning and 1 for buffing off.

I'll give my /r/AutoDetailing inspired rundown. I live in an apartment so a lot of this is extra hassle if you have access to water.

2 Bucket (apartment) Method Wash

• 5 gallon bucket of water (w/grit guard)
  
  
• 5 gallon bucket premixed soap and grit guard
  
  
  • Lids for transportation
    
    
• Head down to the local self service wash. The kind with the foamy brush and pressure washer. (ONLY THERE FOR THE WATER)
  
  
• I follow 2 Bucket method above but my process is a bit different since I'm paying for the water.
  
  
  • Clean wheels/wheel wells, exhaust tips, rinse, wet car and remove built up debris/bugs with remaining time
    
    
  • Clean roof, windows, hood, front, rinse
    
    
  • Clean driver side (not bottom), back, passenger side (not bottom), go back and clean bottom of sides, rinse
    
    
    • If time remaining, switch to low pressure for final rinse
      
      
• Dry car and head home!
  
  My personal favorite wax is Collonite #845. I also like Griot's Best in Show since it can be found in big box stores locally.
  
  I would also recommend a paint protection such as Cquartz as extra protection against winters and daily driving.
  
  The absolute #1 rule to keeping your car swirl free, NEVER USE AUTOMATIC CAR WASHES.

thanks for the tag /u/solitudechirs

/u/CMDRHailedcaribou91 I highly doubt most car washes would be willing to do that unless its a self serve place.

do you know if that cavalcade is primarily plastic or primarily metal?

for metal polishes (non painted) I can recommend marine 31's metal polish. shit works wonders on oxidized metals!!! (its my go to for non painated)



leather? any car marketed leather cleaner would be fine. I prefer mckees37 or meguiars to be fair.

for plastics I like this. a lot

leahter cleaner here

for learning these microfibers are a good cost effective start and you wont be hurt when they die and you replace them.

I can recommend any mckees37 towels or the rag company microfibers.

this or 3D pink soap (dirt cheap but i love it) is a great soap for washing without stripping waxes!


if you're like me and dont have time to clean...

once you're done. spray this and wash it off and boom bam you're set to go and have a good quality glass silia coating! here

I like mckees products a fair bit ;)

for sake of easy ass waxing I like extender wax but I do also like meguiars quik wax. that stuffs damn cheap but good. sadly its carnuba only :(

Been slowly building up 'maintenance' type supplies and think I'm on the right track but have a few questions. Here's what I've got:

• Meg's Quick Interior Detailer
  
• 303 protectant
  
• Meg's Ultimate Quik Wax (spray)
  
• Meg's Ultimate Quik Detailer (spray)
  
• Some MF pads
  
• [Detailing brushes]
  (https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CWBDBFU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
  
• Tire dressing applicators
  
• Mother's wheel brush
  
• Costco MF towels
  
  And probably some other random stuff. Most of what I've listed above I haven't even used yet! So some quick questions!
  
  

1. I have been considering getting some Meg's APC. Am I correct that I could use this on tires, light buildup on tailpipes, Husky (like Weatherbeater) all-weather floor mats? Any guidelines on dilution for these applications; and what else could the APC be used for?
   
2. For interior cleaning, can I safely use the Meg's QID with the brushes to get inside crevices including around switchgear without risk of short-circuiting something?
   
3. QID on a MF OK to clean nav/LCD screens?
   
   We had both of our cars detailed a couple months ago by someone who has a small side business in our neighborhood, so they are in pretty good shape, and just want to keep them that way. At some point in the future, I may consider getting a DA but for now just want to get better at regular maintenance.
   
   Thanks for reading this long-winded post!

Here's a long thing I wrote for a friend just getting started. It was an email and i don't feel like fixing links.

1. Menzerna (Now called Jescar) Power lock Sealant:
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050IQH9K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
   
2. Optimum Spray Wax (this is a topper wax to go on top the sealant, or touch up areas any time):
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GG9FI8I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
   
3. Meguiar's Drying Towels (I HIGHLY recommend these, super effective) I got 2:
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009IQZFM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
   
4. Mother's detailer kit (gives you detail spray, clay bars, and micro fiber towel as a bonus)
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Mothers-07240-California-Gold-System/dp/B0002U2V1Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1476666101&sr=8-3&keywords=mother%27s+detail+kit
   
   
5. Applicator pads
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Viking-862400-Blue-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1476666178&sr=8-3&keywords=wax+applicator
   
   
6. Buffing towels (for buffing in the wax or sealant)
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Detailing-Multi-Use-Microfiber-Professional-Dual-Pile/dp/B01L4L4L26/ref=sr_1_17?ie=UTF8&qid=1476666651&sr=8-17&keywords=microfiber+buffing+towel
   
   
   
7. Proper wash mitt (just a microfiber towel won't cut it) - there's also a 2 pack with prime.
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-X3002-Microfiber-Wash-Mitt/dp/B000RXKR6M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1476667551&sr=8-1&keywords=meguiars+wash+mitt
   
   
8. Car wash (this can be found at any autozone like store as well, this is a big bottle)
   
   https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-05664-California-Gold-Wash/dp/B0009H51B2/ref=sr_1_9?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1476668207&sr=8-9&keywords=car+wash&refinements=p_85%3A2470955011
   
   
   
   
   Do you have 2 buckets to use? Always set one bucket up with the soap water, and the other with just water. Soak up your mitt, wash the car, rinse the mitt, then soak again in the soap water. This helps reduce contaminants. If you want to go the extra mile, get these for the buckets to prevent dirt from swashing around the bucket:
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Grit-Guard-Insert-Red-Diameter/dp/B000N3W8J0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1476667750&sr=8-2&keywords=grit+guard
   
   It fits in a home depot bucket.
   
   If you have particularly pesky tar or bugs on the car, you'll need this that you can get from any autozone type store:
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/Stoner-Car-Care-Tarminator-Remover/dp/B0002LBGWI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1476667917&sr=8-1&keywords=tarminator
   
   WARNING **
   
   When using the power lock (or any sealant / non-liquid wax), DO NOT let it touch any black plastic or rubber parts of the car!!!!! If it does, just wipe it off with a wet micro fiber cloth. Failure to follow this will result in a white hue on the black piece. You could always painter's tape off those areas that are hard to avoid.
   
   Steps for this process:
   
   
9. wash the car, two bucket method with wash mitt.
   
   1b) Bring the car to an area with as little sun light as possible for the next steps!
   
   
10. Leave car wet. Use detail spray to keep all surfaces lubricated. Rub all surfaces down with a flat piece of the clay bar (flatten in your hand). About 2" diameter or so. Every panel or when the clay bar looks dirty, just kneed it a few times, folding it and re-flattening it. Every so often, throw out the clay and get some more. If you drop the clay on the ground, it's garbage throw it out. Each clay bar should last you multiple details of your whole car, just tear pieces off.
    
    
11. Dry the car down with the MF drying towels. Buff in any water spots, streaks, etc from the detail spray. If an area needs a little extra love, spray some detail spray on it and rub her in.
    
    
12. Use applicator pad. Apply a bit of sealant on the pad, even it out in the pad, and apply a thin layer of wax across the paint surface (NOT BLACK TRIM). You can use sealant on windows if you desire. Re-apply sealant to the applicator pad whenever you need more.
    
    
13. let the sealant dry (20-30 minutes, depending on conditions). It will haze when dry.
    
    
14. Use buffing cloths to wipe the haze out. You may need to do some hand "buffing", use different angles of sight to make sure the paint is now completely smooth and clean.
    
    
15. Let dry a bit, 20 minutes?
    
    
16. Spray VERY LIGHTLY with the optimum spray wax on paint surfaces. There are 2 settings on the bottle, make sure it is on the setting that spreads out the wax not a stream.
    
    
17. Buff in the spray wax with buffing towels.
    
    
18. ENJOY protection. Watch the beads of water fly off the car for the entire season.

Hello,

I've read the wiki and its a huge resource. Thank you to all who put it together!

Some of the product reccommedations are unavailble on Amazon so I just wanted to ask a few questions with regards a brand new car I bought and see if these products are whats needed:

So firstly, washing the exterior of the car:

I have Meguiars Gold class wash, I have two buckets, and grit guards, I will do the two buckets method. Now do I dry the car with:

this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ERU0F3A/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?smid=A1RKELVBY446LD&psc=1 or

this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GXRFLY4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=A1RKELVBY446LD&psc=1

Once I have washed the outside and dried it with the towels, I then apply the wax, I will be using #845 - can I use these to apply it:

https://www.amazon.com/Viking-Car-Care-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E/ref=pd_bxgy_263_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0051MYL8E&pd_rd_r=BG4S92NE1D9CH9E2J67C&pd_rd_w=HVEIG&pd_rd_wg=6EheM&psc=1&refRID=BG4S92NE1D9CH9E2J67C

I know I needs to get a clay bar or a micro sponge I'm just not sure where/how this fits into the process, what items do I need to buy

These?

https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-07240-California-Gold-System/dp/B0002U2V1Y/ref=pd_bxgy_263_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0002U2V1Y&pd_rd_r=BG4S92NE1D9CH9E2J67C&pd_rd_w=HVEIG&pd_rd_wg=6EheM&psc=1&refRID=BG4S92NE1D9CH9E2J67C

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

Lastly, I am buying this window cleaner -

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006SH4KU/ref=ox_sc_act_title_8?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

Is it safe to use inside and out? I would imagine spray directly on outside windows and just use some microfiber towels like this - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WC5KQGE/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?smid=A1RKELVBY446LD&psc=1 to clean it off? On the inside I would imagine spraying directly onto the cloth would be better.

Do I clean the outside windows after the car has been cleaned and waxed?

I understand the basic process and with this being a new car I want to be 100% I'm doing the right thing, I fully intend on washing it every other week and taking great care of it!

Thanks

Tim

I apologize in advance for this long post. None of these are "must gets", but they are what I got for my 2016 Premium forester. I'm posting this for my own future reference as well as to help some people who are wondering what accessories might be good for their new forester. I highly recommend ordering from Jackie from Annapolis Subaru @ 443-837-1422 as she can get you some good prices on the subaru accessories as well as WeatherTech products! I saved on WeatherTech shipping costs (~$20) by ordering through Jackie and the warranty is the same as if I had bought them through their website.

Please note that some of these accessory links are for my specific car year, model and configuration. I have a 2016 Premium forester without eyesight (affects the Covercraft/heatshield sunshade - they also have eyesight compatible sunshades!).

Also, I personally didn't get my windows tinted, but I think that is something that you should seriously consider doing :)

Speaker kit

Tweeter kit


WeatherTech DigitalFit floorliner (1st & 2nd row)


WeatherTech cargo/trunk liner (without bumper protector)

Weather Tech TechCare floorliner and floormat Cleaner/Protector Kit

Gorilla mud flaps

Covercraft's UVS100 sunscreen - use promo code FREESHIP

Exterior Auto Dimming Mirror w/ Approach Lighting

Luggage Compartment Cover (manual rear gate)

Rear bumper cover

Auto-Dimming Mirror with Compass and HomeLink

Rear Seat Back Protector

Two Home Depot 5 gallon homer bucket

Heatshield sunshade (driver/passenger, second row, rear windshield, sunroof) - note that their website only shows only one side window (driver/passenger), you need to call in to ask them to add the second row side window ones - on my invoice it says part #1425S-A and #1425S-B

Antigravity Batteries AG-XP-10 Multi-Function Power Supply and Jump Starter (check eBay to see if priced cheaper)

Viair 77P Portable Compressor Kit (check eBay to see if priced cheaper)

Amazon stuff:

EZ Pass Holder for VA Flex

Aux cable

Stickershield (parking stickers, etc)

Dropstop seat gap filler (driver/passenger side)

Door panel removal kit (for speaker kit install)

Two grit guards

Microfiber Drying towel

Microfiber cloths (3 pack)

Car wash shampoo

Wheel brush

Resqme (window breaker/seatbelt cutter)

Wheel cleaner

Microfiber wash mitt

Reindeer costume for Christmas

Headrest coat hanger

Road reflective triangles

Duct tape

Odor eliminator

Tire air pressure gauge

OBDII Scanner (Bluetooth)

First aid kit

1. The starter kit comes with ultimate polish and compound. Those are less aggressive versions of M105 and M205. I would skip the kit and just get the Meguiars duo.
   
2. Instead of the mothers clay kit get the meguiars kit. IT has better clay and the spray detailer it comes with is way better.
   
3. If you're getting Collinite #845 then you wont need Poorboys world EX. Collinite #845 lasts a long time and in my opinion #845 looks better than EX.
   
4. The Meguiars wheel kit is VERY aggressive. I would get some Sonax Full Effect for the wheels and use Meguiars D101 (which is on the list) for the tires.
   
5. The Mothers tire brush is awful! Just terrible to use. The popular choice now is the tuf shine tire brush. Its simple and its the best tire brush hands down.
   
   Some things you may have forgotten:
   
   
6. Since I told you to pretty much skip most of the kits you have listed, get some cheap microfiber towels for everywhere but your paint. I recommend zwipes from amazon. I use these towels to dry tires/wheels, interior, glass, everywhere but the paint.
   
   
7. Wash mitts. I really like chenille wash mitts.
   
   
8. Nice towels for your paint. You need nice microfiber towels that will only be used on your paint. Anything from theragcompany.com will be good or some generic chemical guys microfiber. Another good brand is Cobra.

You can buy everything online, though it's easier to go to a harbor freight with a coupon if you have one. There are plenty of polishers you can buy online of course, but none are as cheap (at least with decent quality) as the harbor freight model. You can of course buy a much better polisher at your local lowes / home depot however unless you have a lot more use for it it's probably not worth it over the harbor freight one (a good polisher will cost you $200+). Everything else you can find at any auto parts store, or maybe even walmart.

Here's some links

• Polisher - http://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-variable-speed-dual-action-polisher-69924.html (no matter what you want a dual action polisher, as other kinds require more skill to avoid damaging your paint)
  
• Cutting pad - http://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-compoundcutting-foam-pad-60311.html
  
• Polishing pad - http://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-polishing-foam-pad-60309.html
  
• Ultimate compound - http://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-G17216-Ultimate-Compound-15-2/dp/B001O7PNNM?sa-no-redirect=1 (you can skip if your paint isn't bad, no bad swirl marks or scratches)
  
• Ultimate polish - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HCOE8Q/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_dp_ss_1?pf_rd_p=1944687402&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B001O7PNNM&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1P9X3VP7TVA943BYC6C7
  
• Sanding block - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009IQYZ8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (if you're going to use touch up paint)
  
• Microfiber rags - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ANZHG7C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Wax applicator pads - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051MYL8E/ref=ox_ya_os_product_refresh_T1
  
• Duragloss - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B002W0ZNIU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
  
• Color matched touch up paint (if needed) - http://www.automotivetouchup.com/
  
• Detail clay - http://smile.amazon.com/Simoniz-S57-Perfect-Finish-Detailing/dp/B0081OSRQQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1414207600&sr=1-2&keywords=clay+bar
  
• Foam applicator pads - http://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009IQZPW/ref=ox_ya_os_product_refresh_T1
  
  Basic steps:
  
  

1. Start with touch ups if needed. Apply touchup paint to chips with a toothpick, in small amounts. Let it dry and do another one, build it up until it's above the level of the surrounding paint (may take many coats). Let it dry at least several days and make sure it hasn't sunk in. After it's dried for several days, use some water and the sanding block to gently sand them down flush with the rest of the paint. It will look bad, don't worry. Give the paint a few weeks to cure before moving on.
   
2. Wash the whole car with dawn dish soap and let it dry. Mix up some dish soap (maybe 1 tablespoon) with water in a spray bottle. Spray a section with the soapy water and then rub it down with the clay. This is a very mild abrasive which will remove contaminates, tar, bugs, etc and give you smooth clean paint. Wash car after.
   
3. Use the rubbing compound with the cutting pad everywhere you can. Don't try to get into tight areas or spots where you can't put the pad flush, because you'll shred the foam pad. Do the tough spots by hand with foam pads. Wash the car to remove any residue.
   
4. Repeat with the polish pad and polish, same technique as with cutting.
   
5. Apply the duragloss to a clean car by hand with the cloth applicators. Use sparingly, then wipe off with microfiber rags.
   
   You are done! In most environments the duragloss will last 6+ months. If you keep your car protected with it, you won't need to do the cutting/polishing again (or at least, not for a while).
   
   The trickiest part of the whole process is the compounding and polishing. Here are some helpful videos.
   
   

• How to use a dual action polisher - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrse_DBaUbc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5MYqiBLIU9c
  
• How to touch up paint - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15T08rfuTSg
  
• How to clay your car - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqW1nzgyMNA
  
  And that's about it! It's easier if you don't do touch ups, but I figure if I'm going to put this much work in it, might as well get them. And if you do it right (with careful application and then sanding) the touch ups look nearly flawless (most look terrible because people don't bother to sand them flush).
  
  edit: two other tips...
  
  

1. If you have black rubber trim, say around the windows, mirrors, door handles, etc you either need to keep the polisher away from it or put masking tape on top of it. The rubbing compound and polisher will scuff up softer materials like rubber and it will look bad.
   
2. When working with the polisher, always turn it off while still on the surface of the car (preferably still moving it) and let it slow down before lifting it off. If you life the polisher off at full speed it might send the polishing pad flying (it's held on with sturdy velcro). When this happens the velcro is basically shot and you're going to need to get a new pad. If you make sure you always turn it off while still in contact with the car, and you don't try to put it on any sharp corners or narrow areas where you can't get good flat pressure across the whole pad, you should be able to do the entire car with a single pad.

1. What I advise you to do the following:
   
   1. Get PPF (Paint Protection Film) full front (if you can afford it)
      
   2. After the PPF, get a ceramic coating done. there’s a lot of debate of it’s actually needed or effective but I’ve seen many many cases where either side can be “correct” in the sense you can’t go wrong diy vs. getting it done professionally. There are plenty of people here who have done it themselves but please refer to r/Autodetailing if you’re interested. I choose to get mine done professionally and I don’t regret it one bit. Helps to maintain the car very easy. Here’s a pic after getting ppf and coating done: https://i.imgur.com/v3Lpn9g.jpg
      
2. I use two bucket method (LOT of tutorials on google and youtube) Here’s a list of every single thing related I purchased for doing my own car wash:
   
   1. ONR Solution
      
   2. Chemical Guys MIC_507_06 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towel, Gold (16 in. x 24 in.) (Pack of 6)
      
   3. 2 of Meguiar’s X2000 Water Magnet Microfiber Drying Towel, 1 Pack
      
   4. Relentless Drive Ultimate Car Wash Mitt - 2 Pack Extra Large Size - Premium Chenille Microfiber Wash Mitt - Wash Glove - Lint Free - Scratch Free
      
   5. Chemical Guys MIC_7071 Glass and Window Waffle Weave Towel, Red (24 in. x 16 in.)
      
   6. Grit Guard (2x)
      
   7. Solo 418 One-Hand Pressure Sprayer, 1-Liter, Ergonomic Grip for Gardening, Fertilizing, Cleaning & General Use Spraying
      
   8. Windshield Window Cleaner Tool, Unbreakable Extendable Long-Reach Handle, Unique Pivoting Triangular Head, 3 Washable Reusable Microfiber Bonnets, Car & Home Inside Interior Exterior Use - Lint Free
      
   9. Buy 2 5 gallons buckets at Home Depot/Lowe’s
      
3. Tesla should do it for free but some people do end up paying $25-60 but usually free. Hope this helps!

get these towels: https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-X2000-Magnet-Microfiber-Drying/dp/B0009IQZFM/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1497666477&sr=1-2&keywords=meguiars+drying+towel

i know they're kinda overpriced but they're amazing and as long as you dont do something stupid like drop them and keep using them, they dont swirl your clearcoat. theyre quite absorbent too, so soft. 2 of these will dry an FR-S. The first one will be soaked, but is enough to get the beaded water off your finish, then use the 2nd one to mop up.

In terms of wax, that Meguiars Ultimate Paste Wax is amazing. Synthetic so it lasts much longer than carnauba, and ive never had a wax go on and off so easily. Dries in like 5-10 minutes, and buffs right off. I was amazed! Leaves a helluva shine too. I put it on my glass and exterior lights as well.

Most of the time I'm living in a flat so what I do it use a quick detailer (US link / UK link) and microfibre (US link / UK link) to keep things clean between proper washes. In fact I keep a bottle of quick detailer and a one of glass cleaner in the car at all times (I wrap a microfibre cloth around the spray head and put the combo in the driver/passenger door pocket).

Basically if you can catch any big, obvious dirt e.g. bird crap, early then it makes things easy.

If you manage to get some time, putting on a good coat of really hard wearing wax (US link / UK link) or sealant (US link / UK link) will be really helpful. It should last a year and make cleaning with quick detailer much easier.


As for the headlights, the yellow colour comes from the plastic oxidising. You need to scrub away that layer and then protect it. Toothpaste works quite well but there are dedicated products like (US link / UK link). Afterwards I'd apply some 303 Aerospace protectant (US link / UK link) which is also great for the interior plastic.

I hang out at /r/AutoDetailing a lot also - been keeping cars clean for 50+ years. Here's the destilled version before you wade through what others do. Buy some good car wash soap, I use Meguiar's, it's red in color. I've tried their up-scale one that's yellow, I don't like the film it seems to leave on the car. Buy a good microfiber mitt for the paint, (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Car-Wash-Mitt-Microfiber/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081035&sr=8-3&keywords=microfiber+wash+mitt) and a good large sponge for the tires/wheels. Use the two-bucket method, have two buckets full of soap. When you wash a section, mitt goes first in one bucket, swish it around a bit, then put it in the other bucket to get fresh soap for the next wash section. Leave the wheels for last and DON'T use the mitt, use the sponge for them. Wash the wheels/tires a couple of times, you might need one of these to help (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Viking-862600-Black-Premium-Metal/dp/B0051MYLS4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081149&sr=8-2&keywords=microfiber+wheel+brush). When done washing use a waffle weave for drying (like this: https://www.amazon.com/Microfiber-Absorbent-Detailing-Professional-Flawless/dp/B00MA94SOS/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487081214&sr=8-4&keywords=waffle+towel+car). They are amazing at getting the water up and leaving your car streak free. When drying, start with the windows first.

You don't need separate soap for the wheels, but either do them after cleaning the car, or use a separate bucket for them because that water will get FILTHY. Could also get a dedicated wheel cleaner if soap isnt cutting it for you.

One thing I would suggest is getting a pack of bulk towels. You only have 1 on that list and believe me, you'll be glad you bought more than one. A bunch of people here grab the huge 36 pack from costco, you can find them on Amazon and the price varies between $15-$25

https://www.amazon.com/Kirkland-Signature-Premium-Microfiber-36-Pack/dp/B00GARQKII/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=kirkland%2Btowels&qid=1557168083&s=gateway&sr=8-2&th=1&psc=1 (this package is much bigger than the picture would suggest lol)

The dry me a river is a great drying towel though, I do my whole car with one. A

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.)
  

Sure thing. Use these to dry: THE RAG COMPANY (2-Pack 16 in. x 24 in. Professional Twist Loop Microfiber Drying and Detailing Towels - Korean 70/30 550gsm Microfiber https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GWXMFKP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_j-nZCbNPCF9XQ

Rinseless wash, or detailing, these will do great: THE RAG COMPANY (4-Pack 16 in. x 16 in. Eagle EDGELESS 500 Professional Korean 70/30 Super Plush 500gsm Microfiber Detailing Towels (16x16, Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GXRG64I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ScoZCbBEC3PA5

Care and Maintenance: Wash everything above together with cold water and white distilled vinegar (put the vinegar in the fabric softener tray if available) and use a fragrance free detergent. Either hang dry when done or dry on low. DO NOT USE DRYER SHEETS, it ruins the towels almost instantly.

Welcome to the rabbit hole! :)

Don't use autozone towels, the last ones I bought from there were 100% polyesther and can't absorb anything. I have a pile of these useless towels now and they're going to the garbage.

All links provided are Amazon.com links:

Get a towel that's 80% polyesther, 20% polyamide. It will absorb better. Meguiar's Supreme Shine towels. Get a bunch of them. Also a Water Magnet Towel for drying. When drying, you should get the microfiber / water magnet drying towel damp first, it will absorb more water much more easily.

Cheapest and quickest way to remove swirls, my recommendation is Meguiar's Ultimate Compound and some Gold Class wax. This kit has everything you need for $25 including the microfiber towels and foam pads: http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G3300-Brilliant-Solutions-Restoration/dp/B004EB12FS

Expensive but quickest and most effective way, get Meguiar's DA microfiber correction kit http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-DMCKIT5-Microfiber-Correction-System/dp/B00CJ69F2W and buy the porter cable polisher. Also I recommend getting the Meguiar's car correction kit I linked above with this. You'll get excellent results.

Separate all your towels. Use dring towels only for drying, wax towels only for waxing, polishing towels only for polishing, and Glass towels (rainX) only for glass.

If you're trying to keep costs at a minimum then I recommend ditching that kit. Have you googled the Gary dean method of washing? If not then check it out. Basically he uses one bucket and a couple of microfibers as washing media. The pros to this is that 1. You don't have to lug around two buckets. 2. No need for grit guards. 3. After im done washing my car. Since the water is clean I can actually save it for later use. Gary deans method has one downside which is that you have to invest in more microfibers. Honestly, you can buy the ONR, and bucket. Then buy about 6-20 good quality microfiber towels. The clay you have is good and you're on the right track. You can also never go wrong with collinite 845. For the towels I recommend these

So I decided to go for it and take better care of my car detail. Want to make sure I'm not crazy with some questions.

​

1. Because of the efficiency of pressure washing, I've decided to make my routine cleaning a rinse, foam cannon, wash, rinse, dry. Is that good enough for routine wash?
   
2. I have a Wolfgang paint sealant in my garage which I'll apply as a LSP when I'm confident enough, i haven't seen it recommended on the wiki, am I making a mistake with it?
   
3. Is it ok to use microfiber towels instead of a mitt for washing?
   
4. I've been watching this guys video where he claims using a high pH soap to strip everything and always re-sealing/re-waxing Meguiars spray wax is the way to go. He claims that over time debris gets melded _with_ the wax and so it's better to strip it all out. What are your thoughts?

I'm fairly new, myself. I've driven clunkers most of my life. Spent about five years downtown where I didn't have a car. Now I'm back in suburbia, so I've got a brand new GTI, and it's the first one I've ever cared to take good care of. Here's what I started with:

• Meguiar's D101 APC - the D103 APC+ has apparently been discontinued.
  
• Two Chemical Guys detailing bucket kits, which each have a bucket, lid, grit guard, 16oz citrus wash, and some washing pad thing I didn't really want.
  
• Two-pack of Rag Company Dry Me a River towels
  
• Five-pack of Rag Company detailing towels
  
• Bottle of Stoner Invisible Glass
  
• Two-pack of Griot's Garage microfiber wash mitts
  
• A Nanoskin wash mitt
  
• 32oz Optimum No Rinse Wash and Wax - for use as a quick detailer and easy maintenance washing.
  
• Lexol leather care kit
  
• Thee-pack of spray bottles
  
• A microfiber window towel
  
• A cheap electric blower
  
• 16oz Chemical Guys Jetseal
  
• Microfiber applicators
  
  I should have picked up some of Chemical Guys' citrus wash and clear, too, to help deal with a winter's worth of grime left by terrible touchless car washes. I've also got a tire brush, hand vacuum, and some assorted cheap microfiber towels around already.
  
  Your kit looks a lot more cost-effective, though. Throw in some cheap buckets, grit guards, wash mitts, and drying towel, and an extra stack of cheap microfibers and you're still under $100 for practically everything you would need for a proper two-bucket wash and wax.

I had this issue and aside from a tool to get in the corners, you really are simply lacking in good microfibers. Once I bought some good ones for the first time in my life, I realized how crucial towels are in the whole equation of detailing. These are the ones I bought which are just great, in fact the best mf towels I own currently: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=pe_385040_121528360_TE_dp_1

No sweat! Glad the damp rag seemed to work out well. I bought these microfiber cloths a while back that I use to clean up all my flips. They work great and don't shed any lint at all. Great for cleaning up shoes and getting into all the nubs on the bottom.

Only hand wash, all the time, lovingly, with microfiber everything. It's going to be your new hobby, and on a car this size, takes less time than you would think to do it right.

Here is my amazon list, a lot of stuff has subscribe and save deals, everything Chemical Guys has been top notch.

http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_493-Microfiber-Scratch-Free/dp/B003TTL0TE/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1465225930&sr=8-10&keywords=chemical+guys

http://www.amazon.com/303-30520-Convertible-Fabric-Cleaning/dp/B000A8JNF0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465226066&sr=8-1&keywords=303+aerospace+protectant+convertible

http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1465225930&sr=8-3&keywords=chemical+guys

http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-CWS_301-Citrus-Concentrated/dp/B004K9KETY/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1465225930&sr=8-6&keywords=chemical+guys

http://www.amazon.com/Collinite-Liquid-Insulator-Wax-845/dp/B000JK2D06/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465225985&sr=8-1&keywords=collinite+insulator+wax OR http://www.amazon.com/Collinite-No-Super-Doublecoat-Auto/dp/B000AP8DZY/ref=pd_sbs_263_5?ie=UTF8&dpID=51Nde%2B7iakL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0KRY8VA4QS2RZE3XG1R5

http://www.amazon.com/Viking-862400-Blue-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1465226014&sr=8-2&keywords=microfiber+applicator

http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-TVD_109_16-Sprayable-Dressing/dp/B001TI1F5Q/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1465226032&sr=8-3&keywords=chemical+guys+tire+shine

http://www.amazon.com/Mothers-155700-Wheel-Brush/dp/B001GJ3DZS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465226178&sr=8-1&keywords=tire+brush

I enjoy Collinite 845, Optimum soap, drying aid, for my dash, doors interior, and vinyl on the outside , wash mitt , drying towel , interior and exterior microfibers great for buffing wax and dust on the interior. And if you want that shine and to keep the integrity of your clear coat I would wax every couple months, depending the quality of the wax you decide to go with.

All you need is 2 buckets and a good wash mitt/drying mf towel and good soap.

• You can get the 2 buckets from home depot.
  
  
• The wash mitt from Amazon with quick delivery (Prime if you have it).
  
  
• The soap from Autozone - Meguiar's Gold Class is good enough.
  
  
• A drying towel from Amazon with quick delivery (Prime if you have it).
  
  Use the power washer and hose at the self wash. Done.
  
  I recommend upgrading to a better wash mitt and drying MF over time.

Awesome! You definitely helped. One final question if it's ok. Will the following steps (in order) be good for a first time wash/detail?

1. Wash the car with this soap.
   
   
2. Scrub with these
   
   
3. Dry off with this
   
   
4. Decontaminate with [this]
   (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=ox_sc_act_title_6?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER), while using this as the lube for it?

1. I use Meguiar's Gold Class 3 in 1 Leather Cleaner + Conditioner + Protectant. I got it at Walmart. Couldn't find link for Amazon, but this is what I used before, just doesn't have the protectant in it.
   
   
2. I use Meguiar's Quik Interior Detailer. Since you don't want that "greasy" look and feel make sure you don't get the Meguiar's Ultimate Interior Detailer - I bought that once and I still have it, just not good, smells kind of funky too. After you use Quik Interior Detailer, just like lanmansa said, put some 303 Aerospace on it to protect the vinyl, plastic, etc. It has a matte finish, no greasy look or feel.
   
   
3. Brushes - I bought this make up brush at icing, it's called "Expert Brush". I might get shot down for this, but it works good. I don't really use it unless I have to.
   
   
4. I bought these. They're pack of 50 for $20. I only use them for interior or engine bay. However, DO NOT use them on your paint.
   
   
5. I don't have a steam machine, but lanmansa posted a good link referring Larry.
   
   Hope this helps :)
   
   Edit: If some things are really tough to remove, use diluted isopropyl alcohol down to 10-20%. Should be able to get rid of anything you encounter that isn't getting cleaned or removed.
   
   Edit2: Fixed brackets for links.

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.

303 Aerospace should work great it's a cleaner and protectant, but you might also like Nextzett which I posted above.

For matte paint/PPF I would recommend Chemical Guys Meticulous Matte Quick Detailer: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-SPI_995_16-Meticulous-Detailer/dp/B00FQHY64S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1535948037&sr=8-1&keywords=quick+detailer+for+matte

For towels, I like:

Plush for cleaning: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQYCKE8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Miscellaneous Disposable (not for dirty surfaces since they are low plush): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00937YLE2/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Waffle weave for drying: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_781_01-Waffle-Microfiber/dp/B00BQYCIVI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1535948166&sr=8-3&keywords=microfiber+drying

Lint free for glass: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WC5KQGE/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I actually LOVE the chemical guys gold MF towel

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=chemical+guys+microfiber&qid=1557973969&s=gateway&sprefix=chemical+guys&sr=8-3

I've used many different types of towels and these just suit me the best. They're cheap enough ( I got a pack of 12 for $16 so I bought as many as I could afford.)

They last a long time with proper care but ate cheap enough that I'm not afraid to toss them when necessary. Enjoy!

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

Can you please link me to the MIC_506_12 you are looking at?

I found this 12 pack on Amazon... does not look like 46% off for me though. Still a pretty solid deal.

I am also curious, what would be a good use for these different microfiber:

1. Zwipes (cheaper and thinner)
   
2. Chemical Guys MIC_506_12
   
3. Chemical Guys MIC_1024_3
   
   

Go to Amazon and order this (I like Meg's products),

• Harbor Freight DA
  
  
• Meg's Endurance Tire Gel
  
  
• Meg's Ultimate Protectant
  
  
• Meg's Ultimate Liquid Wax
  
  
• Meg's APC
  
  
• Rag Company's Borderless Blonde
  
  
• Rag Company's Waffle Weave
  
  
• Hex Logic White Pad (3)
  
  
• Hex Logic Orange Pad (2)
  
  
• Hex Logic Red Pad (2)
  
  
• M105
  
  
• M205
  
  
• 3M Auto Tape
  
  
• Mother's Wheel Brush
  
  
• ABN Woolies
  
  
• Trim Brush
  
  
• Chem Guys Wash Mitt (2)
  
  
• Mother's Clay Bar Kit
  
  This should run you about $345 for everything and have you setup to take care of your car for a long time. You can find a 20% discount code online for harbor freight to bring the price down $55 for the DA. Go to home depot and buy a couple buckets and you will be good to go.
  
  Edit: To add, I went to Lowes and bought a cheap inline sprayer for my hose and it works fine for foaming up the vehicle, plus it only costs $5.
  
  Edit2: If you are going to downvote me please post why you don't like my recommendation.

Oh boy this is confusing. So I have a couple of needs:

1. Waterless wash/quick detailer
   
2. Applying/buffing sealants like Carpro Reload
   
3. Drying
   
   Is it possible for someone to recommend a few options for each category? Is something like this good for #1 and #2? What about this for drying? How does that waffle one compare to this Woolly Mammoth one?

I hose my bike down, then I use some nice clean soapy mitts from a bucket and get in between all the nooks and spokes, glass, etc. Then I hose it off again, wipe it down with microfiber hand towels and this towel.

I clay bar once a year and wax all the painted and glass surfaces. With my car I use an orbital to apply the wax but I'll wipe it off by hand.

Then I'll take it for a ride to let all the nooks and crannies air dry, but some people use compressed air. I don't use a power washer as I don't want to ruin bearings or any electrical stuff that isnt 101% weatherproof.

A micro fiber cloth (I like the ones used for car washing 16" x 24" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQYCKE8/ ) and "Monoproce universal screen cleaner" (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002KPQ2NW/ ) is all you need. Make sure your a/c is nice and cold in the room and you will be good.

There are microfiber towels made especially for drying the car off. Get a few of those (usually 2 big ones work for the 3). These are really good:

​

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_781_01-Waffle-Microfiber/dp/B00BQYCIVI/ref=sr_1_5?crid=1T8KAPHD7ULBQ&keywords=microfiber+drying+towel&qid=1562016793&s=gateway&sprefix=microfiber+dry%2Caps%2C191&sr=8-5

​

Most of the micro-marring and swirls are caused by the drying process, but a good microfiber towel will reduce the chances. Also if you happen to have an electric leaf blower around, that works well too to blow the water off. Then get the tiny spots and door jambs with the microfiber towel.

Rinseless washing with ONR has almost cut my washing time in half, and the Nanoskin Wash Mitt has saved me tons of time claying.

For drying, I use something like a waffle weave towel and some spray wax (I use Optimum Spray Wax).

You could try something like ONRW&W which combines rinseless washing with wax, giving you 1 less step.

Because of the Prime Day deals I decided to pick up a few different products without knowing too much. I bought: Optimum No Rinse, Mothers Clay Bar System, Microfiber Clothes, Liquid Wax Paint Sealant, and Hybrid Wax.

My quick understanding is that the recommended process is: wash > clay > wash > wax. In terms of these products, does that mean:

ONR wash > Mothers Clay (should I use their lube or just the ONR water?) > ONR wash > Liquid Wax > Hybrid Wax

Just want to make sure I follow the right order so I can start to keep my car in good shape. How often should I clay? What about the sealant and the wax?

Thanks!

The potential hazards are that if you accidentally missed a spot while washing, you have a very high chance of dragging dirt across your paint. Best case scenario you get a light swirl mark or streak. Worst case scenario you grind away much deeper into your clear coat causing damage, thus requiring paint correction using compounding and polishing.

It's just best to avoid it and use a better option such as a quality micro fiber cloth designed for the purposes of drying paint.

EDIT: /u/theragcompany these guys are pretty awesome. I'd recommend a waffle weave towel like this http://www.theragcompany.com/products/premium-microfiber-16-x-24-waffle-weave-towel.html but other manufacturers make them as well. https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-X2000-Magnet-Microfiber-Drying/dp/B0009IQZFM/

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.

> waffle weave microfiber

Will do, I dont want to spend $10 on one "name brand" one though, because i go through microfibers quick. After i put them in the washing machine stuff sticks to them and its annoying. I would think only to dry the car with these if they are in perfect condition.

Check these out:

https://www.amazon.com/American-Terry-Mills-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B0193XZXYW/ref=sr_1_22?ie=UTF8&qid=1493905763&sr=8-22&keywords=waffle+weave+microfiber

Think they will be good?

I was also looking at these, which ones do you think will be better? They seem to have slightly different material

https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Waffle-Weave-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B019YG8WW8/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1493905763&sr=8-5&keywords=waffle+weave+microfiber

EDIT: those are probably too small huh 16x16

Is this only for the windows and no paint? Do not ever use a squeegee on paint. For windows the glass is much harder than paint but still can scratch it yet this is very rare and your probably good. Have you considered a drying towel like below. Its $8 works amazing. No risk and you can use on paint.

http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-X2000-Magnet-Microfiber-Drying/dp/B0009IQZFM/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1413229092&sr=8-6&keywords=automotive+drying

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.

I was very happy with:

Chemical Guys, Microfiber Towel

Chemical Guys, Microfiber Drying Towel

Still looking for a good wax though...

I use these and just throw them in the wash after:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051MYL8E

They are pretty cheap for being reusable. Honestly washing them every time is probably overkill anyway, a quick rinse would be fine.

The video shows the big red sponge. I personally use these for my wash:

Chemical Guys MIC_506_12 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold (16 in. x 16 in.) (Pack of 12)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQYCIVI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and this for drying (I have two) + Meguiar's Ultimate Quick Wax or CarPro Reload (depending if I have it)

Chemical Guys MIC_781_01 Waffle Weave Gray Matter Microfiber Drying Towel (25 in. x 36 in.)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQYCIVI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I use one microfiber at a time on the plush side folded into quarters. I spray the panel with the bucket mixture put into one of these sprayers and wipe the panel down in ONE direction relative to the towel. When a side gets dirty I flip and when all 4 are dirty I get a new towel. I go through a lot of towels but they wash out easily.

Solo 418 One-Hand Pressure Sprayer, 1-Liter, Ergonomic Grip for Gardening, Fertilizing, Cleaning & General Use Spraying

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BX4VXI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Also in the winter, you can fill the bucket with warm water AND do it in the garage. It's amazing.

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

how about the Meguiar's one?

http://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-X2000-Magnet-Microfiber-Drying/dp/B0009IQZFM/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1405130888&sr=1-1&keywords=waffle+weave+drying+towel

$7.26 each?... any good?

BTW, I use a chamois to dry my car. One is almost as old as I am and the other one is a new synthetic one... so... anything else might be an improvement

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.

What kind of towels do you use to dry?
I typically use these but not sure if it would be the best for my car
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

Well I've just started getting together my own kit and felt I HAD to get these:

1. Meguiar's Clay bars and quik detail spray
   
   
2. Butt-load of microfiber towels
   
   
3. Waffle-weave drying towel
   
   
4. Grit-guards
   
   
5. Iron X wheel cleaner
   
   
6. Industrial Spray bottles
   
   
7. Meguiar's Gold Class car wash soap
   
   
8. Meguiar's Gold Class Wax
   
   
9. Purple Power
   
   
10. Proper wash mitt
    
    I still feel like there are atleast ten other products that I NEED!
    
    -Pressure Washer
    
    -Foam Cannon
    
    -Detailing brushes
    
    -Sealants/Compounds combined with a proper rotor drill
    
    -ETC
    
    

Nothing more than a typical automotive microfiber microfiber. I go through quite a few using them for car/paint care, and I buy them in bulk off Amazon.

It's funny because I approached the boots the way I would restore a car's paint:

1. Cutting product to remove swirls and scratches = Hard scrubbing the shell with a damp microfiber and deer boning to even everything out.
   
   
2. Polish to hammer out the rest of the light scratches, add gloss and prep the paint for waxing = Saphir Renovateur
   
   
3. Wax or other final topper = Saphir Cordovan Cream
   
   And that's my inane correlation for the day.

For a regular wash I'd suggest a product like Meguiar's Gold Class shampoo. You can find it at auto parts stores and amazon. Optimum No Rinse doesn't foam and is only intended for "waterless" wash (which really means 2 gallons of water).

P.S. Get yourself 3-4 good towels. I recommend these for their cost effectiveness + softness.
https://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-X2000-Magnet-Microfiber-Drying/dp/B0009IQZFM/

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?

Like this?

Turtle Wax T-241A Polishing Compound & Scratch Remover - 10.5 oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009JKGJ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_JToqDbD8N20PT

With this?

Viking Car Care 862400 Microfiber Applicator Pads - 5 Inch Diameter, Blue, 6 Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0051MYL8E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8UoqDbG3V6T3Y

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.

Are these any good?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1382664326&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

I have a Amazon giftcard n I am trying to use....that's why I am posting amazon links

Are the Eurow 350gsm good? What gsm would the griots blue towels be? Can i get a mircofiber comparable to the griots for $2 each or am i crazy? How do detailers have boxes of towels that cost like $6 each?

Edit: These look promising but i really want to have some one with hands on experience guide me.

I'm a dry me a river fan. The smaller towel in this pack would fit fine in the glove compartment.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QNUO7FK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

By hand with a microfiber pad

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0051MYL8E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I made sure to try and follow this guide: http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/how-articles/40243-collinite-845-definitive-how-guide-legendary-wax.html

What you're looking for is either wax used on duster jackets. Or Otter Wax.

As for removing: An iron and paper towels or a regular towel is best. You can also use a waffle weave drying towel. These suck up moister like magic. To do the pockets, just stuff them with something to fill them out and give support. To make the surface flat, cut a piece of cardboard to slip inside.

Whatever you use, I suggest putting tissue paper between the iron and the towel. This protects the material from scorching/melting, and from getting a bunch of crap on the iron's shoe.

These things will change your life (actually they will just keep your watches cleaner, but you get the point)...
Chemical Guys MIC_507_06 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towel, Gold (16 in. x 24 in.) (Pack of 6) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQYCKE8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NmScBbTTCV9J0

Edit: LOL downvotes. For recommending a good cleaning rag on a post with perhaps the dirtiest Sub this year. This subreddit is so ridiculous sometimes.

Chemical Guys blue WorkHorse towel

Kirkland Signature towel

Do you like low pile towels? I know the eagle edgeless gets a lot of love but I dislike high pile towels. Whats your favorite towel?

These chemical guys towels have worked really well for me. Combined with their microfiber wash, they’ve stayed very soft and clean.

Chemical Guys MIC_506_12 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold (16 in. x 16 in.) (Pack of 12) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_-NdcBbAN0K9FS

I'm applying the wax by hand, using some generic pads, like this, that I found in my garage. I've waxed two cars so far and I've used the method of covering the bottle opening with the applicator and shaking up and down once or twice at each panel. Not sure if I'm using too much or too little.

I purchased the Dry Me a River towels and they have been great! Unfortunately, one of the towels has gotten snagged on a few sharp ends on some of the cars I have worked on and the fabric has pulled away from the rest of the towel. How bad is that for the towel, exactly? Also, this is really dumb question, but how do you use the towels (for example, how wet is the towel supposed to get before flipping to another side)? Sorry for being so technical.

Is using All Advanced Oxi Detergent okay for washing The Rag Company's towels?

I mean like a legit cleaning rag. Not that tiny little thing that came with the PSVR. Same thing I use to clean my TV/Computer screen, windows, etc.

Quick question about a couple starter supplies, re: claying, waxxing and tires/wheels. I'm working on putting together a kit for first-time detailing my 92 miata (single-stage paint)

claying: I've heard good things about the nanoskin sponge and mits, does anyone have any feedback on this ABN towel? reviews seem solid, and I was considering getting it instead of the sponge. https://www.amazon.com/ABN-Grade-Towel-Detailing-Cloth/dp/B00Y1OBG8Q/ref=sr_1_5?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1504977575&sr=1-5&keywords=clay+mitt

waxxing: ill be getting the collinite 845, as far as application goes I just need some application pads and towels to buff with, right? I was considering https://www.amazon.com/Viking-862400-Blue-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E/ref=sr_1_1?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1504986720&sr=1-1&keywords=microfiber+applicator+pad and https://www.theragcompany.com/eagle-edgeless-16-x-16-microfiber-towel/

re: wheels/tires, i'll be good to go with APC, tire brush, wheel brush, and tire dressing, right? not quite ready to drop 50$ into a woolie set yet, so I was going to go with the mini ez detail

I would like to recommend one of these.

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

I was considering these also. How is yours better?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001TZBB3K/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1414699682&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0057O0GSA/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?qid=1414699720&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009IQZFM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1414700082&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

Rain X, always

A gallon of car wash soap to last you a few years: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-CWS_301-Citrus-Concentrated/dp/B004K9KETY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1509988980&sr=8-3&keywords=chemical+guys+wash+and+gloss

A gallon of spray wax to last you a few years:
https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D15601-Synthetic-X-Press-Spray/dp/B005JPJMI2

Gallon of leather cleaner: https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-D18001-Leather-Cleaner-Conditioner/dp/B0006SH4PU

A 36-pack of microfiber towels to last you maybe a year.. depending on how many kids you're carrying (is it bad I assume you're carring kids in this daycare limosine?) , keep all towels separate for duty: https://www.amazon.com/Kirkland-Signature-Premium-Microfiber-36-Pack/dp/B00GARQKII/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1509988902&sr=8-1&keywords=kirkland+microfiber

Gallon sized products are the way to go for general cleaning. Glass cleaner concentrates that dilute 10:1, Wheel cleaners (dilute), all purpose cleaners (dilute), Leather cleaners, spray waxes, etc.



Maintenance:

Buy a 5 or 10 pack of oil filters on amazon. Also funnel, oil rags, and every type of oil filter wrench.

Buy full synthetic oil at walmart or on amazon.

Install a fumoto oil drain valve for easy oil changes.

Rhino ramps to drive up on.

https://www.amazon.com/Viking-Car-Care-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E/

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-G18016-Clear-Rubbing-Compound/dp/B006FUT13G/

https://www.amazon.com/Meguiars-Clear-Coat-Polishing-Compound/dp/B006FUT154/

​

Wash/Wipe the area with damp cloth to remove dirt

1. Rub the rubbing compound using pad. Scrub!
   
2. Wipe clean
   
3. Rub the polish compound using pad. Scrub!
   
4. Wipe clean
   
   Don't use too much product.
   Too much will make it to slippery.
   
   Err on the side of caution if it's still got scratches repeat the whole process again
   
   
   
   $20 and 20 mins. will make a big difference.
   
   ​
   
   ​
   Post a before
   and after picture

If they do they are usually expensive or if they are complimentary then they are abused and could damage your paint / clear coat. I recently picked up a 12 pack off Amazon and am happy with the quality http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1412309266&sr=1&keywords=microfiber+towel

Remember to not use the foaming brush

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

I the like yellow chemical guys towels that are sold on Amazon for budget towels.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_fxXByb61BA21H

Chemical Guys MIC_506_12 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold (16 in. x 16 in.) (Pack of 12)

$12.89 after 20% off coupon and Subscribe and Save.

​

For a good drying towel, look into the Dry Me a River from The Rag Company.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QNUO7FK/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_TLLqxbPJ8MXZJ

Get these instead. They work even better than the ones you linked.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQYCKE8/

I really recommend using one of these giant microfiber drying rags.
(https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Waffle-Weave-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B019YG8WW8/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1492308107&sr=1-2&keywords=drying+rag+microfiber)

https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-Waffle-Weave/dp/B00QNUO7FK

I bought that pair so a helper could also have a towel to help dry, if they are so inclined.

Cargo Bull Rings for the Bed

Ratchet Straps

Mult-gift set of a grit guard, large waffle-weave micofiber towel, and 1) some 2) good 3) soap

Stubby antenna because the stock one makes the truck look like an RC car

An actual RC Colorado ZR2

has anyone ever use the chemical guys professional grade micro fiber before like these http://www.amazon.ca/Chemical-Guys-Professional-Premium-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_1_2?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1453735484&sr=1-2&keywords=chemical+guys how are they i know a lot of people here recommend the rag company towels but i live in Canada so when i went to order from there it was $30 shipping

I use microfiber cloths sold for cleaning like these

I have posted this setup else where and I think it's a better deal with the same results.Soap Foam Gun Wash Mitt Drying for about $60. It's what I started out with and I still use gold class every now and again and the foam gun for my Motorcycles.

Looking to buy my first real car towels. Are these worth?

Chemical Guys MIC_506_12 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towels, Gold (16 Inch x 16 Inch) (Pack of 12)

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=car+towels&psr=EY17&qid=1574965681&s=black-friday&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sr=1-3

I use these for interior and dirty work.
Best Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, Pack of 50 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DV2OJYG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Rw5wzbR9YAXWR

And these for wax and polish removal.
Chemical Guys MIC_507_06 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towel, Gold (16 in. x 24 in.) (Pack of 6) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQYCKE8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Dy5wzbBWZ7BZ9

I have a bunch of these (http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1398192169&sr=8-5&keywords=microfiber) and they work well.

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

https://www.amazon.com/RAG-COMPANY-Professional-Microfiber-Detailing/dp/B00GXRG64I

Might be cheaper straight from the Rag Co's site.

If you do this get Microfiber waffle towels for drying. I use Dry me a River which are on amazon

I’m my trunk, I’ve got a trunk organizer that’s meant for groceries, but Velcroed to the floor carpet.
Inside I’ve got
Waterless Wash ,
Tire Shine ,
Rags ,
Air Freshener (sounds odd, it’s amazing, 2 sprays keeps car smelling good for a few days)
Brush Light gray seats, stain easily.
Fabric Wash ,
Bug/Tar remover , also great for bird shit. I drive 40 miles each way highway to work. Sometimes is necessary.
Interior Spray , and lastly
Glass Cleaner
Also keep a dirt devil in there just in case.

It may sound a bit over the top, but I am obsessive about keeping my car immaculate. If I spill soda or food on my drive to work, I don’t have to worry. If I decide to sell my car at any point in time the goal is to keep it looking better than when I bought it.
You never know who’s looking.
And if you think this is bad don’t even get me started with the what’s in your garage post.

https://www.amazon.com/Viking-Car-Care-Microfiber-Applicator/dp/B0051MYL8E?th=1&psc=1

I hate holding and folding MFs so that was my solution. They are good quality. I first bought the Chemical Guys one but they are utter garbage.

I'd use this instead.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/

I picked up 2 packs of these and I've been used them for drying my car after GD method car-wash. How are they compared to the "Korean waffle weave towels"? Are they the same?

Or, instead of buying the ones from the paintball store at 10 bucks a pop, buy a 50 pack of generics that are the same material for less than 20 bucks and have cloths for life

https://www.amazon.com/Microfiber-Cleaning-Absorbent-Detailing-green/dp/B00MQM0KB4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003TTL0TE/ref=psdcmw_15718691_t2_B00MQM0KB4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BQYCKE8/ref=psdcmw_15718691_t1_B00MQM0KB4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0128S0FS8/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1491827279&sr=8-5&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=clay+bar

And a M3 wax that I found on a local supermarket.

[Chemical Guys] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gTpZCbFD66DPG)

Amazon/Ebay!
MUCH cheaper prices than buying it locally.

Grit guard;

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_nkw=grit+guard&_sacat=0&LH_PrefLoc=1&_sop=15

​

Wash Mitts;

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=sspa_dk_detail_6?pd_rd_i=B016NGZWVG&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=f52e26da-1287-4616-824b-efc564ff75a4&pf_rd_r=MSCN7C5STT7GCSY8JXVC&pd_rd_wg=d3TEz&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_w=QB1ot&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pd_rd_r=bbafadfb-b84f-11e8-940e-2fb2dccbe537&th=1

​

Drying Towel:

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_721-Absorber-Microfiber/dp/B001TZBQ0S/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1536951373&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=microfiber+drying+towel&psc=1

​

General use microfibers (these tend to shed fibers on glass though);

https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_03-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00BQYCK8O?th=1

Torq22DDA: Torq22dD

Pads: ChemicalGuys orange then white for finish

Compound: Meguiar's M205

Ceramic Coat: Gtechniq Crystal Serum Light (didn’t use the exo to humid for application)

Sealant: Gtechniq C2 Liquid Crystal v3

Microfiber: Chemical Guys MIC_507_06 Professional Grade Premium Microfiber Towel, Gold (do not skimp out on your MF!)

If you scroll down from your link, you should those round microfiber pads. Here

Actually, this is just from a wash and Chemical Guys Blacklight

About a month ago I did a full detail which included:

• Wash and Clay Bar
  
  
• Meguiars M205
  
  
• Meguiars M21
  
  All applied with a Porter Cable DA polisher and some high quality Micro Fiber towels

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00TORH3S2/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1493506192&sr=8-3&rps=1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=the+rag+company&dpPl=1&dpID=61lHowMgG9L&ref=plSrch

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00QNUO7FK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493506192&sr=8-1&rps=1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=the+rag+company&dpPl=1&dpID=51bx8q41yBL&ref=plSrch

Here is the type of pad you shuld get... https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0051MYL8E/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1494442082&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=microfiber+pad&dpPl=1&dpID=51k5PkFDqkL&ref=plSrch

These chemical guys

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A8MZ7IA

Just throwing these out there as another option.

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'm in panic.

Dude. Take a deep breath. Then buy a microfiber waffle towel and dry it like a normal person.

I buy the yellow microfibers that CG makes on amazon, because CG's customer service is TERRIBLE (if not the worst I've ever experienced with any business).

They aren't the best quality, but they are decent: http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394539570&sr=8-2&keywords=chemical+guys+microfiber

Like these? I'm so tempted to try them, buying cotton rounds all the time is dumb.

Basic wash on my Porsche Cayman. Full album, http://imgur.com/a/UYQRW

Pressure washer: http://www.amazon.com/Joe-SPX3000-Electric-Pressure-14-5-Amp/dp/B00CPGMUXW

Foam lance: http://www.amazon.com/Professional-Foam-Lance-Adjustable-Bottle/dp/B004GNZYY4

Soap: http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-CWS40216-Super-Shampoo/dp/B00AFBXQNC

Towels: http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC50706-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00BQYCKE8

edit: Ah crap I gave you the cheap option..

Harbor Freight Dual Action Polisher ~$70

4 x Harbor Freight Orange Compound Pads ~$5ea

1 x Bottle Optimum Hyper Polish

1 x 3" Backing Plate http://www.autogeek.net/3inch-dual-action-backing-plate.html ~$13

2 x 3" Griots Garage Compound Pads (also auto geek)

a pack of these http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_506_12-Professional-Microfiber/dp/B00A8MZ7IA

https://www.amazon.com/Kirkland-Signature-Premium-Microfiber-36-Pack/dp/B00GARQKII

These are only 350 gsm

https://www.theragcompany.com/16-x-24-plush-eagle-edgeless-500-microfiber-towel/

These are 500 gsm. You want higher gsm when working with paint, as it means there's more pile, meaning it's less aggressive and less likely to drag along dirt or other swirl inducing particles along your paint. For two bucket washing, drying, or waxing, you're gonna want to use a high gsm microfiber

Because your drying towel will most likely pick up any dirt that may have been missed after washing your vehicle. Reusing that towel on another car adds more potential dirt. This dirt can swirl up your vehicle.

I am not a fan of the chamois. They don't have room for dirt to hide and will drag any dirt across the surface of your vehicle. Please consider upgrading to a waffle weave drying towel.