The tools and equipment that you will need to perform a thorough car wash will vary based on your particular requirements. These include things like a Clay bar, a spotter, mitts, and even a wash bucket. You can also use products like air compressors and extractors to get rid of the dirt and grease that has accumulated in your vehicle.
Sponges and Mitts
A sponge is an abrasive and can damage your clear coat. Luckily, there are other tools that make cleaning your vehicle much easier. One of the most useful is a car wash mitt. These mitts are not flat-faced like a sponge, and are made of soft materials to avoid the chance of grit trapping the suds.
The best car wash mitts are made from lambskin or microfiber, and come in different sizes to accommodate most vehicles. They are also the most absorbent of all wash mitts, and a great way to clean between dirty panels. You can also choose a wash mitt that will clean the wheels, which are often overlooked in the wash process.
A high-quality wheel cleaning mitt will get your wheels looking great in no time. There are also brushes for cleaning the insides of your car.
Washing buckets
Washing buckets are an essential detail tool. They can be used for many different tasks. From washing your car to maintaining its shine, they can help keep your vehicle looking like new.
The two bucket method of washing is often the most recommended, but there are other methods that can achieve the same result. This includes the three bucket wash, which is a more complex process.
In the past, the two bucket wash was the standard of the trade. It was the quickest way to get your car clean. You would pour soapy water into one bucket, then rinse your mitt in the other. However, that same procedure can lead to swirl marks. A much better option is the three bucket system.
Using a grit guard will keep dirt from resoiling your wash mitt. Adding the appropriate amount of grit guard to your wash and rinse bucket will make the job easier and faster.
Air compressors and extractors
Air compressors and extractors are crucial to professional car detailing. They offer a variety of benefits, including a more effective job, decreased project run times, and increased value of your investment.
These tools can be used in conjunction with other polishing and cleaning tools. For example, you can use compressed air to power pneumatic buffers. Compressed air can also be used to clean a variety of microfiber pads.
For larger jobs, you’ll want to invest in a more powerful air compressor. It’s important to understand how to choose a compressor that will work for you. The most common type is a reciprocating compressor, but you’ll find a variety of other types.
A rotary screw air compressor can offer a constant flow of air. However, they’re more expensive than other models.
Clay bar
If you’re in the auto detailing industry, you’ve likely heard of the clay bar. It’s an effective tool to clean off dirt and other grit from your paint. However, it can be dangerous if you don’t store it properly.
There are many different types of clay bars, which can range from 2 ounces to 8 ounces. They can be stored in the original container or a zip-top plastic bag. For better storage, you can also break the bar into smaller pieces.
One of the first things you should do after buying a clay bar is test the surface. You want to find out what type of surface you have and how dirty it is. The lubricant and corresponding detailer spray that comes with the clay bar can be a handy tool for this task.
Turtle Wax sealant
Turtle Wax offers many professional car detailing products, including car wax. This liquid-like wax protects your vehicle against UV light, rain, and heat. It can provide a high-gloss finish and is easy to use. Depending on the brand and type of sealant, it may last between 6 months to a year. However, you should be careful with these products, since improper maintenance can wear them down and degrade the coating.
Carnauba wax is a natural wax derived from the Brazilian palm tree. It is strong and can smooth out shallow scratches. Unlike polish waxes, it also provides protection from environmental contaminants.
Synthetic waxes, on the other hand, are designed to offer a more durable and slick protective layer. These waxes don’t shine as brightly as carnauba wax, but they’re ideal for vehicles exposed to contaminants.
