ARGH! HEY HEY, READ THIS!

GET THIS NOW!

ok, quick learning time. Subaru paint is terrible, very thin, and not durable. Bug blood is acidic and will eat the clear coat off and then go after the paint, i know first hand. Spray that shit on the bumper, let it sit, then use a bug sponge to clean it and wash it. There's a lot of wax in it and it'll clog up your sponge but it's either that or paint job. I did los angeles to denver, long way, and tried to see how dirty i could get it and I'm paying for that now. My car is no garage queen but the bumper can strike the eye with a dull thud now :( do this every other day, it's only a few minutes and you're protected. Something about the way you look in this photo instills me with confidence, take the time to wax the entire front end, that will protect even better so all you do is rinse and light wash and all buggies go bye bye.

Here are the videos i watched months ago, hooe they help.

1

2

Cannot find the other.

Sure, here's everything...

Spotless water system:

https://www.autogeek.net/cr-spotless-water-systems.html?utm_campaign=8008446&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=201591135968&utm_term=cr%20spotless&gclid=CjwKCAjwqfDlBRBDEiwAigXUaEk4pHWhh9zjMsvhRa1Z6l3EDMUboth8Z32WUsxP2YX64rWOXEucNxoCm50QAvD_BwE

Air Dryer:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01B79BD6C?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Wash Mits:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00R54ULN0?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Grit Guards:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07KR6KGQ6?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

Pressure Washer:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00LX8Z03K/ref=ppx_yo_mob_b_old_o1_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Definitely check out /r/AutoDetailing where I learned my method.

The way I do it:

Equipment:

1. Optimum no rinse I use the green version (the one linked) that has wax, but there's also a blue one without wax. Either one is fine I just prefer this one.
   
   
2. Bucket. Any clean one will do.
   
   
3. A shit ton of microfiber towels. The Rag Company is a popular brand to go with. I just go with a pack from costco and they work fine for me.
   
   
4. Spray bottle. 1-2.
   
   
5. Isopropyl alcohol. Dilute it down so it's 10-20% in concentration. Put it in the spray bottle or use a cup/bucket.
   
   
6. Nanoskin or clay. I use nanoskin so I linked that. Otherwise just get some clay. Most people in /r/autodetailing say any brand of clay is usually fine. I use nanoskin because it's a bit quicker and I have a new car so it works fine. Some people seem to say that clay gets your car a bit cleaner, but it's not worth the time trade off for me especially since my car is still new-ish so still clean.
   
   
7. Opti-seal. I like using this because it's quick, easy and works great. Gives a good shine too.
   
   Washing:
   
   
8. Use the rinseless method. You'll find it in the wiki of autodetailing. To prep: dilute ONR down to the recommended amount in your bucket. Fill up spray bottle. Throw microfiber towels in the bucket in the rest of the solution. Ring out the towel so it's not sopping wet, but there's still solution. Fold the microfiber towels into four.
   
   
9. Work on only one car panel at a time. Spray the panel with the ONR. Wipe panel down firmly, but not really hard, with one side of your towel. Then turn to a different side of the towel. Do not re-use that side of your towel. Use a fresh side of the towel for every panel. Use a dry towel to wipe off that panel so there are no water streaks. Repeat until your car is washed. ONR works fine on glass too so you can just do your windows as well.
   
   Rinseless washing is great when your car is mildly to semi-dirty. This means if it's mostly just dust on your car this is great. Otherwise if it's caked with mud this won't work. You'll have to go somewhere to hose your car off with water first so it's not as dirty.
   
   Clay Bar/Nanoskin:
   
   Note: This is only necessary if there are actually micro-contaminants. I would do it on a new car regardless since it has been sitting on a lot. On a normal basis you only need to do when your car doesn't feel glass smooth after a wash. Usually no more than 1-2 times a year.
   
   
10. Because you can also use ONR as your clay lube I just pour out my bottle of ONR spray back into the bucket and pour in enough ONR until it gets to the concentration needed. ONR says 2oz per gallon of water. Fill your spray bottle back up with the new concentration.
    
    
11. Here you'll be working with small sections of a panel at a time. I suggest you just look up a youtube video on how to clay a car. Basically though you spray the section, clay/nanoskin the section until smooth, and wipe off the section with a dry towel. Repeat for your whole car. Note that you'll have to massage the clay or wash off your nanoskin every so often to get rid of those contaminants.
    
    Sealant/wax:
    
    After you're done with claying your paint is clean so you'll want to put wax/sealant on it to protect it. It'll make your car nice and shiny too.
    
    Start with an isopropyl alcohol wipe. What I do is dunk a towel in the alcohol solution and wipe down every panel and drying after it. You can also just fill another spray bottle with it and spray. This will get rid of oil/wax/sealant so the sealant goes directly on the paint. Then just apply the sealant/wax on following the instructions. With opti-seal you just spray and wipe. With some other items you'll need to apply and wait to cure and buff out any remaining wax/sealant.
    
    For wheels and tires I suggest you just check out the wiki on autodetailing. I just simply wipe off the tires with ONR but ONR isn't the best at getting oil. I'm too lazy though to worry about it too much as long as the wheels look clean it's fine with me.
    
    I'm lazy and do a rinseless wash 1-2 times (usually 1) a month. Some do it weekly. I put sealant on every 3-4 months or so. I've only clayed my current car once so far.
    
    

2008 BMW Z4M Coupe

I can't believe I haven't posted in so long. This job is back from February.

I performed my Maintenance Package on this 2008 BMW Z4M for a client. This client emailed me about wanting a maintenance Detail on their vehicle. I informed them that this package is usually reserved for previous clients because of the cleanliness requirements (clayed vehicle). I figured worse case scenario I'd bring everything if it's too dirty and needs more stuff.

Products Used:

Wash

• Meg's Gold Class Shampoo
  
• Pressure Washer Foam Cannon
  
• Ryobi Pressure Washer
  
• Microfiber Chenille microfiber mitt
  
  Wheels
  
  
• APC (All Purpose Cleaner)
  
• Lug Nut Brush
  
• Wheel Master Brushes
  
  Decontamination
  
  
• IronX
  
  Interior
  
  
• ONR diluted for quick detailer
  
• Costco microfibers
  
• Boars hair brush
  
  Engine Bay
  
  
• ONR diluted for quick detailer
  
• Black microfibers from /u/theragcompany
  
• Boars hair brush
  
• 303 Protectant
  
  Notes
  
  This was an eye opening experience for me about cleaning a clean car. I learned that it's difficult to make a clean car even cleaner and really focuses you as a detailer to focus on details more than the big picture.
  
  
  Price: $155
  
  Time: 3.5 Hours
  
  Thank you for your business!

Ok, after four months with the car, here goes...

​

Charging

• Wall Connector $500. Not necessary but I'd recommend biting the bullet before taking delivery, so you can keep the mobile charger in the car. The electrical work took 2 hours of time, at $130/hr. I highly recommend installing a dedicated 60-amp breaker and an efficient gauge wire which will give you 45 mi/hr of charge.
  
• Charging Adapters $35. Car comes with the 5-15 and 14-50. I strongly recommend buying the 5-20. If you plan to charge at someone else's house on a roadtrip, ask them to send you a picture of their dryer plug. So far, I've needed the 10-30 and 14-30.
  
• NEMA 5-15P to 5-20R Adapter $20. Strongly recommended in combo with Tesla's 5-20 adapter to "cheat" a 16-amp charge (33% faster charging). Must-watch this video, and must-read here, here, here, and here.
  
  Tesla OEM
  
  
• Cargo Mats for Frunk & Trunk $70 & $130. Must-have some sort of trunk mat, since the trunk material is generally poor quality for heavy use.
  
• Front Sunshade $75. Living in Florida, this is a must-have if you dont plan on tinting the top glass panel. The "front" is acutally the middle of the three glass panels, not the windshield.
  
• Paint Repair Kit $55. Nice to have so you're ready for rock chips. So far I've had one that made it through the black paint and silver primer.
  
  Detailing
  
  
• Aero Cosmetics Complete Car Kit $40. Highly recommended. Pricey but saves time for amazing results. Cheaper and better quality than CarGuys products. I liked it so much that I ended up buying this also.
  
• Invisible Glass Spray Cleaner $4. Recommended that you have some glass cleaner that's not Windex. This brand is one of the best.
  
• Wash Mitt 2-pack $16. Highly recommended compared to a wet rag.
  
• Tire and Wheel Brush $8. It's important to segregate parts you use on wheels from parts you use on paint. This product is solid.
  
• Grit Guard $8. Totally optional. Helps separate dirt in the bucket when cleaning. You'll see a difference in the water.
  
  Third-Party
  
  
• Tough-Pro Interior Mats $80. My opinion is that all-weather mats are a must-have. The stock mats are crappy, and all-weather mats make cleaning easier. These are cheaper than Tesla's all-weather mats. I'm happy with them but I'd buy the OEM Tesla ones if I could do it again.
  
• Upgraded White LED Lights $13-$77. Must-have for the trunk. Optional for others. I replaced all 7 non-footwell. Easy install with a credit card. As a bonus, I have one left over, so PM me if you want it.
  
• Kenriko Matte Wrap for Center Console $30. Must-have. Watch his install videos first. Customer service is excellent if you screw up the install like I did. The matte black matches the black leather interior perfectly. I'm sure the matte white is nice too.
  
• Pet Cover for Trunk $45. I couldn't find anything better for driving my dogs, so I use this one with the back seats down, along with Tesla's rubber trunk mat. I'd say my setup prevents 90% of dog wear, and keeps any dog smell to a minimum.
  
• Nomad Wireless Charger $130. Nice to have. Not available until end of November, but battery is integrated unlike the comeptitor's.
  
• Rubber Cupholder Liners $25. Optional, helps with cleaning.
  
• Drop Stop $20. Optional, makes life easier.
  
• Air Compressor $25. Optional but recommended. Look for one with automatic shutoff.
  
• Tire Plug Kit $8. If you're handy, this is a cheap solution to be ready for a flat. If you're not handy, get Tesla's tire repair kit.
  
• Card Holder $5. Optional. Keep in your center console so valet has a way to hang your card key.

Meguiars Gold Class Shampoo

Chenille Wash Mitt

Turtle Wax Seal n Shine

Soap

Interior Cleaner

Foam Cannon

Scratch Free Wash Mitt

I'm really enjoying what chemical guys has to offer in their cleaning line up. I'm going to pick up hydro charge from them soon. It's a spray on ceramic coating.

The chamois and quick detailer help to remove grime, oil spots or whatever they are. It's very apparent on a white car. but glad I can actually see it too remove it versus another color car.

​

cc: u/simply_lime

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 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.

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.

The Rag Company has a green and blue set on Amazon that I love to use. For the price, they perform amazingly well and have lasted me months

-
(2-Pack) THE RAG COMPANY Premium Soft Microfiber Chenille Knobby SCRATCH-FREE, LINT-FREE Wash Mitts, One Royal Blue and One Lime Green https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R54ULN0/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_QAD-wbJ18XVTF

Wash: https://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-Hyper-Wash-Foaming-Leaves-D11001/dp/B0006SH4IM

Clay: https://smile.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-019-AutoScrub-Grade-Sponge/dp/B00CUAWJ6G

Decontamination: https://www.autogeek.net/carpro-iron-x-cleaner.html

DA: https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-57-amp-heavy-duty-dual-action-variable-speed-polisher-69924.html

Polish: https://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Glaze-Ultra-Cut-Compound/dp/B003LMGDHI

Compound: https://smile.amazon.com/Meguiars-Mirror-Glaze-Ultra-Cut-Compound/dp/B003LMGDHI

Pads: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B004104678/ref=twister_B00NN89SGI?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Coating and Sealant: https://www.autogeek.net/cquartz-uk-edition.html

2 buckets with grit guards are way too expensive, that's at least $40! Pair that with 2 reusable quality mitts at $30, you're looking at $70 wasted away.

SCREW THAT! Let me break out my $150 pressure washer, my $20 foam lance and $75 for 10 wash mitts It's so much better to do it my way and I save so much in product! /s

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
  
  
  

MF mit.. no brillo or bounty towels :)

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.

How To: Decontaminate your paint & wheels

1. Gather your supplies. I have used a combination of a paint safe iron dissolving product, a clay bar, and a Nanoskin Sponge (picture 1)
   
2. WARNING: If you are using an iron dissolving product, DO NOT have your car parked in the sun. Remember the flash point with chemicals? You do not want something strong enough to dissolve metal particles drying on your paint. Liberally spray the product on your paint, focus on the areas around the wheels as obviously kick up crap from the roads (picture 2).
   
3. You should see a color change happening just as if you had sprayed the product on your wheels. Note: Because of the dark color of my car, I couldn’t get the camera to capture any color change efficiently. Dwell time shouldn’t really last longer than 5 minutes or so.
   
4. Hose down the car. Yes, if you’re doing this step you’ll have to dry the car again. But you know how to do it now, so it shouldn’t be too bad!
   
5. I like to clay bar the wheels next. I’m using an old piece of clay, and seeing as my wheels are pretty beat up already, I don’t really care. However, a new(er) piece of clay is always recommended. Examine the wheels. See any bits of tar or brake dust that didn’t come off from washing? (picture 4)
   
6. Lube up the wheels using the product of your choice. For the wheels, I am using QD strength ONR. One the paint, I like to use the leftover soap from the wash bucket during the 2 bucket wash. Note: water is NOT an adequate lube for clay. Using back and forth motions, not circles, rub the clay on the wheels using medium pressure (picture 5).
   
7. Examine to see if the problem area has been resolved (picture 6).
   
8. Continue onto the rest of the wheels (picture 7).
   
9. When clay becomes too dirty, fold and kneed it up until you can longer see the dirt accumulated (picture 8).
   
10. When you can longer find a clean side, it is time to toss the clay (picture 9).
    
11. If you drop clay, it’s time to toss it. This sucks, especially when you have just broken off a new piece to use. Clay picks up anything it touches, dropping it on the ground renders it useless (picture 10).
    
12. NanoSkin products act the same way as clay. However, they require no refolding, last longer, and if you drop them you can just wash them off. The only real downside is that they tend to be a little more expensive, but are totally worth it in my experience. The sponge (which I am using) is the cheapest option. They also offer mitts, towels, and pads for a DA.
    
13. Dunk the sponge in the wash bucket (picture 13).
    
14. Using back and forth and up and down motions, ‘clay’ the paint (picture 14). Again, use medium pressure. No need to ‘grind’ the sponge into the paint. Note: when using soap as clay lube, I like to hose down the panel first again to give the soap extra lubrication. I know I know, you just hosed down the car and dried it again. It really isn’t so bad. It seems like a lot of steps backward, but trust me, you’re moving forward!
    
15. Oh no! You dropped your sponge! (picture 15)
    
16. No worries, hose it off and you’re good! (picture 16)
    
17. I like to work in half panels at a time, and remember to start from the roof down. This way when you rinse off the car again, you’re working from the top down and not going back and forth.
    
18. I will be tackling window decontamination in the Sealing ‘How to’.
    Note: When using a clay bar and/or sponge, you will feel the contaminants being picked up. When running over the paint or wheels, you’ll feel little bumps. Keep the clay/sponge motion going and the bumps should go away. It’ll start to feel smooth. To be 100% sure you’ve gotten everything up, place your hand in a plastic sandwich baggy and run your hand over the paint. Because of the ‘finer’ surface area of the bag, you’ll feel what you missed. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ml434m7ILNA Here is a video of Mike Phillips explaining it.
    
    Congrats! Your car should be contaminant free and ready to be polished!
    
    
    Dodo Juice Ferrous Dueller
    
    The Mother's & Meguiar's Clay Bar Kits can be found over the counter for about $15-20.
    
    NanoSkin Fine Grade Sponge
    
    Optimum No Rinse
    
    CG Citrus Wash & Gloss

i use Amazon.com: Nanoskin (AS-019) AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge and as lube some shampoo diluted in water. does an amazing job and quite quick!

Most people I have seen use this method say it works great. But some say it causes micro-scratches in the glass. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I Just avoid it all together and use my Medium Nanoskin Sponge.

Here's the one I've been using:
https://www.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-018-AutoScrub-Medium-Sponge/dp/B00CUAWEUM/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1496785409&sr=8-5&keywords=nanoskin+sponge

Nanoskin Fine Grade Sponge https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_6.eWub0G5AWXB Sorry for long link on mobile. I only use these now. I do think you need to use more lube with these then normal clay but it last longer. If you drop it just rinse it thoroughly and ready to go again.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S1FB713/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_D3fXDbXFRPVTE

I found these wash mitts on Amazon for $5.29 for a two pack. They look identical to the TRC Cyclone mitts. I have no idea if they are any good, but at this price I'll gamble.

Don't recommend using RainX on your front windshield - it makes the wipers squeak something fierce.

Use a wash mitt to reduce chance of scratching.

I have this, which you can use with this stuff or any other ONR product really and keep them with you. Just spray it on, let sit for a few seconds, and use the bug sponge to wipe off. Should come off easy.

As an experiment, I decided to try using sponges as an alternative (cheaper, maybe better?) grow medium, instead of rock-wool or grow-plugs. This is 1-week after starting new seedlings using sponges as the grow medium. Net-pots are 2-inches for scale. Most everything has sprouted, except some of the peppers which typically take longer.

The only seedlings which seem to have problems is tomato seedlings, which seemed to push themselves out of the sponge. The only other thing worth note is that it might be good to cut the tops of the sponges more than I did, so that seedlings can escape better.

Any sponge should work. I used these due to price.

I'll probably update at around 1-month, 3 months, etc regarding any issues I might face.

edit: The plants, with their locations....

|Plant|Sprouted|Column/Row|
|---|---|---|
|Fatalli Pepper|(none)|C1, R 1-2|
|Delictica Squash|3/8 sprouted, 2in high|C1, R 3-4|
|Trinidad Sweet cherry Pepper | (none) | C2, R 1-2 |
|Numex Suave Orange Pepper |2/6 sprouted | C2, R 3-4 |
|Trinidad Perfume Pepper | 1/6 sprouted | C3, R 1-2 |
|Large Leaf Sorrel |8 sprouted | C3, R 3|
|Cardamon|0/1 |C3, R4 |
|Broad Leaf Sage |1 sprouted (of ~12?) |C4, R1-2|
|Sweet Cicely |none |C4, R3 |
|Catnip| 0 / ~15 surprisingly | C4, R4|
|Bachelor's Buttons |8 sprouted |C5, R1|
|Pink Sunday Clary Sage |5 Sprouted |C5, R2 |
|Bee Balm |4 sprouted |C5, R3 |
|Caraway |0 (bad seeds?) |C5, R4 |
|Szechuan 'Buzz' buttons|2 / 15 sprouted|C6, R1-3 |
|Kiwi |0/8 |C6, R4 |
|Lemon Cumber|1/3 |C7, R3 |
|Sweet Million Tomatoes |3/4 sprouted |C7, R4 |

• Pictures are day-7. Sprouting info above is day-8.
  
  edit: Also worthy of note, the sprouts have been sitting on top of my grow-tent, which is 85-degrees at the top when the lights are on. I just moved them into the grow tent, so they can get some light.

From my experience, I havn't seen a difference between branded and super cheap ones. One time I picked up a bunch at Aldi because they had chenille "dusters" for 2$ a pop. Looks/feels exactly like a branded one from Walmart.

Here are the ones I picked up the other week. Large and fluffy just like expected. Also seem to have an extra layer inside so your hands are not soaking in soap as much.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LXL9W2P/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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.

My parents' neighbor has been watching as I borrow Mom and Dad's hose and he recently asked if I could take on his car and I was happy to oblige! Overall, the exterior was in okay shape - couple bugs, a few spots of tree sap and bird poo, as well as just a good amount of dirt and mud tucked in some spaces. I gave the car a two bucket wash, clay, Iron X treatment, Iron X, clay and topped it off with a sealant. Thanks for pointing out that I listed my procedure out of order, /u/Deadfable! Here's the deets:

Products Used:

• Meguiar's Gold Class Shampoo
  
• Optimum No Rinse (Quick Detailer dilution for claying)
  
• CarPro's Iron X for decontamination
  
• Nanoskin AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge
  
• Meguiar's D101 (4:1 on tires, wheel wells - 10:1 on the interior)
  
• Aerospace 303 Protectant for interior dressing
  
• Meguiar's Ultimate Liquid Wax
  
• Harbor Freight DA Polisher w/ Buff & Shine 5.5" red pad
  
• Wheel Woolies
  
• Solo Horton Brushes
  
• Other assorted brushes
  
• Microfiber towels from The Rag Company
  

• 0000 Steel Wool from Home Depot (used with QD for the exhaust tips)
  

• Optimum Opti-Bond Tire Gel applied via foam block
  
• Stoner's Invisible Glass
  
  Overall a fun job! Got rewarded with a hearty lunch of sausage and peppers on Italian bread. Happy detailer!!

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

I love Larry's videos from AMMO NYC & DRIVE Clean and have always followed his recommendations for detailing/washing.

• 2 Home Depot buckets with grit guards, microfiber cloths & wash mitt, waffle drying cloth
  
• soap -> [Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine](https://www.amazon.com/Optimum-NR2010Q-Rinse-Wash-Shine/dp/B00D8DR0AO/ref=pd_sim_263_2? (you can u_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00D8DR0AO&pd_rd_r=FM515CNNWHKECR3HGYQ8&pd_rd_w=L1qpT&pd_rd_wg=YSRMs&psc=1&refRID=FM515CNNWHKECR3HGYQ8) (I dilute this and use it as the "clay" lubricant as well)
  
• "clay" -> Nanoskin Autoscrub (works well enough, more cost effective than real clay)
  
• seal -> Chemical Guys Jet Seal
  
• wax -> Meguiar's
  
  
  

Chemical Guys Microfiber Applicators

Griots Garage Microfiber Speed Shine Cloth

Royal Auto Shop & Car wash towels 36 pack

Gummi Pflege Stift

Shurhold Buff Magic Compounding Pad 2 pack

Yacoto Microfiber Chenille Wash Mitt 2 pack

303 Fabric Guard

Invisible Glass 32 Oz - 6 pack

Griots Garage Microfiber and Foam Pad Cleaner

Chemical Guys Foam Cannon and Honeydew cleaner

Optimum No Rinse Wash & Shine 32 oz

Mothers Clay Bar Kit

Sonax Wheel Cleaner Full Effect 169 oz

Griots Garage Microfiber Drying Towel

303 Stain Guard

303 Speed Detailer

Detailer's Choice Leather Chamois

Natural Boar Hair Detail Brush Pack

303 Spray Wax

MATCC 5Pcs White Flannelette Polishing Wheel Cone-Shaped Wheel Grinding Head

Chemical Guys Premium Microfiber Applicators

Waxing is simple. There are a ton of products these days that won't require much work to keep your car protected. The easiest are the spray waxes. Use after you wash once a month(or more) and you'll be nice an protected. If you need some paint correction (i.e. polishing) and you aren't comfortable with it, you will have to spend a couple hundred if you want someone to do a good job and not actually damage the paint. Be careful of the "FUll Detail" for under $100 guys. If correction is what you need, I can suggest Odds and Ends Detailing in Sterling. If that is too far out from where you are, you might want to give them a call and ask if they can recommend someone closer. The owner is a very nice guy.

​

Some general tips on keeping your car looking good.

1. Start with clean paint. Wash. At minimum claybar (easy to do, research online) then apply a wax or sealant. Sealants also come in spray form and will provide additional protection. It can be topped with wax after a few days if you want even more protection and beading. Note: Claybar is only needed once a year if you keep your car clean and protected.
   
2. When washing, use a two bucket method. Look it up.
   
3. Get a good washing mitt. They aren't expensive. I use this one: https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_493-Microfiber-Scratch-Free/dp/B003TTL0TE/ref=sr_1_5?crid=F45IEAEIK2RF&keywords=chenille+wash+mitt&qid=1559133753&s=gateway&sprefix=chenille+wash%2Caps%2C197&sr=8-5
   
4. Get some good drying towels. I suggest waffle weave drying towels. Get 2-3 that are 24x36 or similar.
   
5. Get some additional microfiber towels for spot cleaning.
   
6. Be careful washing in the full sun. Rinse will dry fast and leave watermarks.
   
7. Don't use automatic car washes. They leave micro swirls. In the winter just use one of those touch less washes when salt gets on your car.
   
8. Do not wash your drying towel / microfiber towels with the rest of your laundry. Do them separate. Use a mild detergent with no fabric softener like Woolite. Dry on low or air dry.

Awesome job man and beautiful Rex! I picked up a 14 about 2 weeks ago. I was wondering, how do you apply the Blacklight and the detailer? I see these on Amazon, would they be good? I'm new to detailing. Just wanted a quick tip :)

http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-Premium-Microfiber-Applicators/dp/B00BTGSGFK/ref=pd_sim_auto_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=18KSY6J0SCEKA3C6W8RK

Wheels can be the time consuming part, but the most fun.
My set-up for wheels & tires:

Tuf Shine Tire Brush:
This is better than Mother's Tire Brush, just does the job better. Obsessed Garage talked about it, it's bound to be good.

SuperClean Degreaser:
I like this one because the smell isn't as strong as Meguiar's Wheel Brightener, and I can use it for both wheel and tires at once. Scott from Dallas Paint Correction & Auto Detailing recommend this one and it's hard to look back after using it. Buy a small bottle first before buying a gallon to see if you like it.

Wheel Woolies:
I hesitated to spend $50 on these brushes, but after buying them I had no regrets. You don't get the splash back from other wheel brushes.

Black Wash Mitt:
I used to use this one but I find that using a black microfiber mitt for the face of the wheel and in between the spokes made it a lot faster, and you can get behind the spokes too. But that brush is useful for lug nuts though.

Creeper Seat: This is a nice to have if you're working on a flat surface. Nice to have but not a necessity.

Great, thank you!

Sorry if I'm being stupid, but do I apply the sealant with a microfiber towel or with this?

If not, what is that sponge used for?

Sure thing:

Model 3, pressure washer (unknown brand, owned for >10 years), foam cannon, microfiber wash mitts (4), leaf blower for drying, and lastly microfiber towels for drying.

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!

One other thing - I would do a hand wash versus a pressure wash only. I love self-service car washes for maintenance but they don't remove stuck-on dirt and grime that you'd want off before claying or applying sealant. Also ONR assumes the use of a wash medium like a wash mitt. If resources are an issue I'd just pick up a cheap MF wash mitt, a $4 bucket from Home Depot, and maybe a grit guard.That + ONR should be plenty. If your self-service car wash won't bother you about bucket use I just put in $1 and go straight to pressure soap to blast most of the dirt, then fill the bucket with water + ONR and dry with a MF towel. I'd also try to do as much as I can in one place since the drive home would introduce a bit of new dirt.

If this seems like too much of a hassle, I'd say just hand-wash with ONRWW + MF towel-dry at the car wash and you're set and waxed with protection until you can find a place to do a hand wash, dry, and seal in one place. I do it in my apartment's stacked garage, personally.

Non-mobile link

Most of the clay out there is very similar, but there are different grades of clay (read: aggressiveness). Nanoskin is great for the "average Joe" who has a reasonably clean car but needs to decontaminate it, and clay is great for a 100% decontamination job like a very dirty or neglected car.

If you're new to claying... I'd suggest getting this kit, or something similar. It has everything you need as a beginner. I used these all the time when I first started detailing. I finally needed more so I bought in bulk and gallons of lube at a time.

The second thing I'd recommend is getting a small, fine nanoskin sponge. You can try it without dropping $45 for a mitt or pad and see if you like it and the results you get when working with it.

Unless you specially needclay, go with Nanoskin (AS-019) AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_SEotDbSTMY8MQ

Don't use just water.

You can pickup blue ONR https://www.amazon.com/Optimum-NR2010Q-Rinse-Wash-Shine/dp/B00D8DR0AO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510851008&sr=8-1&keywords=optimum+no+rinse which you can use as clay lube, detailer, rinseless wash depending on the dilution with your distilled water.

Clay lube: ratio 1:64 or 2 oz/1 gallon



Those types of clay do the job and some people perfer it to traditional clay. I haven't heard of that brand, but i'm sure its the same stuff. I personally have little sponge from Nanoskin. https://www.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-019-AutoScrub-Grade-Sponge/dp/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1510851254&sr=8-3&keywords=nanoskin
I like this better than that "towel" since this has a nice grip.

Same here. I have a clay sponge that I use occasionally but, I clay twice a year with the real bar.

One day, I will have the balls to get a polisher. Until then, I just clay and wax.

I would reccomend these materials for the two bucket wash method. Its probably the most common method, and one of the safest. There are plenty of youtube how to's on this. These are the materials you'll need.

• Two buckets that will be used for the two bucket wash method. They can be purchased from a local home center for relatively cheap. $10
  
• Grit Guards. Preferably two, in order to prevent grit from reentering the wash mitt. $20
  
• Wash Mitt. Something like this will be just fine. $8
  
• Car soap. This is completely up to you. Something like Meguiar's Gold Class is fine. $10
  
  
• Wheel brush. Dependent on what you type of wheels you have. A quick amazon search will give you an idea. $10-20
  
• Sealant. I use Meguiar's M21. Not the best not the worst. Im sure others will chime in an have recommendations for you. $20.
  
• Wax. I don't use a wax because my car is older, and the sealant does just fine.
  
  
• Microfibers. The Rag Company has some great starter kits.
  
  Not Necessarily essentials, but recommended.
  
  
• Wheel cleaner. Something like Sonax. $15
  
• Clay Bar. This will be used to intitially remove contaminants from the car. Plenty of youtube how to's and kits can be found easily through amazon or your local auto parts store. $20
  
  I don't think you need anything like a DA at this point. Others will have recommendations for you, and I encourage you to take their advice as well. Some great youtube channels are Ammo NYC, Larry is a master at explaining how to's. He has is own line of products but they're expensive. You can even email him with questions and he'll respond quickly and go above and beyond to explain somethingto you. Junkman, also another great channel. Chemical Guys, they have some pretty good products but their customer service is shit. Their youtube videos are pretty good but all they do is upsell their products.
  
  I'm fairly new to detailing like you. I dont have the best products, but what I use seems to work for me. There are better products out there but budgets can only be so large.
  

I dunno how well dryer sheets actually work, but something like this is actually made for the job.

I just got mine Wednesday; super easy to setup if you can follow instructions. Utilize all the tools they give you, even the filter wrench and plumbers tape.

Overall impression:

Holy crap, why did I not buy one of these sooner?! Absolutely no water spots washing in 80 degree weather letting it air dry. I was even able to clay my car while I wash panel by panel, then rinse away. Normally 30+ minute wash and clay (when I have to clay) turns into a 15 minute wash while I clay. I can't even imagine how easy it will be once I have my car dialed in with wax and just doing upkeep washes. Tip: buy chemical guys bear claw wash mitt, this thing is a beast.

Link : Chemical Guys ACC145 Bear Claw Scratch Free Premium Wash Pad https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IRJ2S4G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_HBkkzbBSMXQVM

Get a Megs105 or Ultimate Polish (since its a beater I expect the paint is in need of compounding) $10

If you don't want to compound maybe a wax cleaner, its milder, cheaper and you could probably 1-step your car with it but don't put your expectations high because it only removes mild oxidation and some swirls. $7

If you need a backing plate, go get a 5 inch one $10, you need it

Get an CCS Orange Pad from lake (8-10)

Meguires Gold Class Wax on Target/walmart/amazon $10

I almost forgot but you need to clay before you start the magic and the cheapest one and most awarding one I know is this that's like $11.

Invest a few more dollars and if you want your money back you could always clean your friends car for a few bucks.

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.

The next step up is to try a microfiber bug sponge, it's a little more scraping power but still pretty gentle.

I got one of these and it's not bad: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001GJ7HCI

I agree with everyone that it's rail dust, or just iron particulates that get embedded in to your clear coat. initial removal will take care of most of it, but know that with a white vehicle, it'll show up occasionally, even with waxing.

Instead of plain clay bar, I'd recommend getting a nano-skin. works like clay bar, but much easier to use (you can drop it and simply rinse it off). I just use any quick detail spray as a lube.

nanoskin

[Nanoskin Mitt] (http://www.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-016-AutoScrub-Fine-Grade/dp/B00DOS0LH2/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1422296825&sr=8-3&keywords=nanoskin)

There is also a medium grade sponge that is smaller but works really well, as well as a combo pack that has medium and fine grade together.

Note that you shouldn't use this as a standard 'wash mitt' though. It is literally a substitute for a clay bar.

https://www.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-019-AutoScrub-Grade-Sponge/dp/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503197119&sr=8-1&keywords=nanoskin

That's what I use. Works great.

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

 

My process goes:

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

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

Touchless car washes don't do shit to clean your car. I spent about $8 on that useless machine, and there was still a layer of dirt on my front/rear bumper, side skirts, and grill. Best thing to do if you're on a budget is buy one of these [microfiber wash mitt] (http://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-Chenille-Microfiber-Scratch-Free/dp/B003TTL0TE/ref=lp_3020674011_1_2?srs=3020674011&ie=UTF8&qid=1454030316&sr=8-2) and the next time you head over to one of those self service car washes just pre-soak the car and the mit and scrub one panel at a time and rinse off the mitt with the pressure hose.

Edit : If you're not on a budget i would recommend doing the 2 bucket car wash method once a week or so. After about 4-6 months i would clay bar the vehicle and use ONR as a lubricant. There are many sealants out there, but only a few can last nearly 6 months. Chemical guys has some great sealants and waxes, but they have so many that it confuses the shit out of people. Save yourself the hassle and get some Jet Seal, some microfiber applicators and some microfiber towels and you're set.

Edit 2: Here is a list of tested waxes and sealants i found on the interwebs a few weeks back http://www.detailingworld.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=85205

These have been shown to have lasted more than 4 months

"Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection
Chemical Guys: M-Seal, Jetseal 109, Speed Amor
Klasse AIO and Sealant Glaze
Hi Temp Paste
Zaino AIO, Z2 and Z5
Wolfgang Deep Gloss Sealant."

Looks like you have a good list! I would suggest a couple changes though.

Meguiars supreme shine microfiber: I would recommend getting this instead. I would also recommend getting cheap microfiber for everything other than your paint. Like these.

I bought the Meguiar's microfiber wash mitt and I am really unhappy with it. Since it's microfiber, it grabs onto the dirt and puts scratches into the paint. I would recommend either the lambswool mitt or the wookie mitt.

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.

Ryobi wand. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QMKHNM0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nN08Ab1AVTA48

Foam cannon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0798NQTQS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.N08AbJNV28Y7

Home Depot buckets. https://www.homedepot.com/p/The-Home-Depot-5-Gal-Homer-Bucket-05GLHD2/100087613

Wash mitt. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003TTL0TE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_IQ08Ab8VGZPNJ

Soap. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AFBXQNC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dS08AbSYF7T4H

Pressure washer. https://m.harborfreight.com/1750-psi-13-electric-pressure-washer-63255.html



Micro fiber rags/towel can be had at AutoZone or O'Reilly's. I suggest getting a pack with multiple colors and dedicate a color to windows, front of the car, above the belt line and below the belt line. Then a big microfiber drying towel or two. Somewhere around $20 for all that depending on where you go.

Also check out r/harborfreight for a coupon. 20% are pretty common.

Soap is lubrication it helps the dirt glide over the paint, where as if you had no soap you would just be pushing the dirt into the paint causing scratches. Also sponges are bad use a chenille wash mitt like this one

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003TTL0TE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1485112376&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=chemical+guys+wash+mitt&dpPl=1&dpID=5133hxCtSML&ref=plSrch

If you need any other advice I'd be happy to help

Sure!

Foam Applicator 1

Foam Applicator 2

Microfiber Applicator these also come in packs of two

And just think, some of the suds dripped off BEFORE I got this shot. Here are the links to the Foam Gun/Cannon and the soap:

Foam Gun/Cannon

Soap - Chemical Guys Honeydew Snow Foam

I also grabbed the mitt that was offered with it from Amazon.

I added some soap to the canister with the water to dilute it. I just poured in what I thought was good. My pressure washer is a gas powered Troy from Lowes rated at 2900 PSI.

Hope this helps you out.

I have quite a process now for this car.

I use the 2 bucket method with the following:

• 2x Home Depot Bucket
  
• Grit Guard
  
• Wash Mitt
  
• Soap
  
• Cleaning Sprayer
  
• 50+ Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Pack (I just got these at Costco)
  
  My Process
  
  

1. Put Grit Guard in one bucket, fill that with just water
   
2. Put soap / water in other bucket (mixture ratio depends on what kind of soap you have)
   
3. Rinse the car off with the hose
   
4. Use the Cleaning Sprayer to get the first layer of dirt off
   
5. Rinse the car off
   
6. Take the wash mitt, dunk in water bucket and scrub on the grit guard, then ring out
   
7. Dunk wash mitt in soap bucket, lather it up
   
8. Wash one panel of the car in one direction with the wash mitt
   
9. Hose down that panel of the car
   
10. Repeat steps 6-9 for each panel of the car
    
11. Once car is washed, use the cleaning sprayer all over the car one last time
    
12. Rinse entire car
    
13. Take microfiber cloth and carefully dry each panel with a different cloth (sometimes 2), going in one direction
    
    Extra stuff:
    
    

• I also use a generic glass cleaner and take a microfiber cloth and do each window as well
  
  At first this took me almost 2 hours to wash my car, but after doing it every other week I'm now down to only an hour. It's extreme but it's detailed and allows me to also check if there are any rock chips, which I can then cover with some touch up paint.
  
  
  
  
  

If you wanna keep it under $30 and want a very basic method of keeping your car clean then I would recommend the tried and true 2-Bucket Wash method.

1. 2 x 5-gallon buckets (Lowes or Home Depot) - $2/bucket
   
2. 2 x GritGuards - $17
   
3. 2 x MicroFiber Wash Mitts - $15
   
4. Meguiar's Golf Class Car Wash Shampoo - $10
   
   TOTAL: $45ish
   
   I know that $45 is over your budget of $30, but I highly recommend using the 2-bucket wash method. You can get away with using 1 grit guard and 1 wash mitt if you want to cut a little bit on cost. You could also buy a smaller size of car wash shampoo... this may get you closer to budget.
   
   The reason I buy 2 grit guards is to use 1 in each bucket. You can buy only 1 and use it in the rinse water bucket for when you rinse your mitt.
   
   You can also get away with having 1 wash mitt and look at different brands. I personally use 2 (one for upper half, one for lower half) to reduce contamination.
   
   ---
   
   If you want to expand later on to go beyond cleaning the car... then you can put some money into additional products. You will want to look into wheel brushes, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaners, detail sprays, waxes, etc.
   
   Once you start, you cannot stop!

Oh, and nanoskin wash mitt or pad?

Edit: I meant Nanoskin Sponge
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CUAWEUM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_7?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

What I used:

Mothers Microfiber Performance Drying Towel.

AmazonBasics Microfiber Cleaning Cloth, (Pack of 24).

Chemical Guys MIC_701_01 - Glass and Window Waffle Weave Towel.

Stoner 92164 Invisible Glass for Window, Windshield and Mirror Cleaner.

Rain-X 800002243 Glass Treatment.

Griot's Garage 10268 Micro Fiber Wash Mitt.

Optimum (NR2010Q) No Rinse Wash & Shine.

Eagle One 665854 All Wheel and Tire Cleaner.

Mothers Wheel Brush.

Mothers 10324 Reflections Tire Care.

Chemical Guys ACC_300_2 - Durafoam Contoured Large Tire Dressing Applicator Pad.

Meguiar's G14422 Ultimate Quik Detailer.

303 Products 30350 Aerospace Protectant.

Black & Decker CHV1510 Dustbuster 15.6-Volt Cordless Cyclonic Hand Vacuum.

(I live in an apartment complex... otherwise I'd probably get a shop vac).

Two 5 gallon buckets.

2 of The Grit Guard Inserts.

I apply 303 with these. They are great. Interior towels honestly aren't as important as exterior towels. Simply because you are much less likely to scratch anything on the interior, versus paint. I buy the Costco yellows and use them on the interior, exterior and simply degrade from: paint to interior, jambs, tires, wheels, trash as they get dirty.

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 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.

Definitely:

There’s a mothers I use, I’m on my third one. When yo I first get it rinse it to get all loose hairs off. I’ve had it for 2 years. I buy them every 2-3 years just to make sure they’re clean, even though I use good practice. I know there’s a chemical guys that’s cheaper but I’ve never used it so I can’t comment on it. This one works for me. I like the shorter hairs, they don’t get caught in things. Once they go bad I recycle them by using them for dirty sections like lower sills, rear quarters etc... perhaps buying the chem guys for that would work too.

When I’m done washing it, I lay it on my clean grit guard and power wash both sides, then squeeze the shit out of it, and then hang it on a hook in my garage to air dry. Don’t leave it to dry in your bucket, it’ll smell like ripe ass, I promise. It’ll get hard when it dries so toss it in when you’re filling your wash buckets and let it soften up.


mothers mitt

id drop the creme glaze and get a wax instead (if budget is a problem?). meguiars gold class wax is a cheap but very effective wax.

youll need about 3 cutting pads, 3 polishing pads, and 2 wax/sealant pads.

32 oz of compound and polish is a lot. if budget is a problem, you can do a lot of cars with the 8 oz bottles.

you might want to consider getting just the nanoskin sponge instead of the mitt and a regular microfiber wash mitt. it will be cheaper and you dont need to clay every wash.

ONR is good, but since you can use soapy water as a lube with the nanoskin, you might want to just get a good quick detailer instead. it helps with drying the car too.

I don't do a ton of hand-dying anymore, but when I do I always use Eco-Flo Waterstain. I tried quite a few other dyes including Fiebings, and I really didn't like the results. The waterstain goes on really evenly (as long as you work quickly) and gives a deep, rich colour.

I don't believe there is a difference between "professional" or not. I think it's just the branding.

As for application, I buy bulk packs of firm sponges and cut them into 3" cubes, roughly. They work better than any clothes I've used. Make sure they are the plain, soft ones kinda like this and not the scrubby kind.

this is what I'm looking at:

cannon

washer

wash mits

adams kit 1

adams kit 2

adams applicator

I figure this setup will get me a few good washes under my belt before I need to buy more shampoo and detail. This puts me around $400, anything I'm missing?

Sure

This is the one I currently use: Chemical Guys MIC_493 Chenille Microfiber Premium Scratch-Free Wash Mitt https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003TTL0TE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0tgFxb1M1HBR5
Literally the only CG product I own. I like that it's green so I can see the dirt. However here is one that is highly rated, but is blue, but if you don't mind that these ones seem good too, especially if you have a large vehicle. Plus you can dedicate one to the upper and lower half or however

Ultimate Car Wash Mitt - 2 pack Extra Large Size - Premium Chenille Microfiber Wash Mitt - Wash Glove - Lint Free - Scratch Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0vgFxbQ8H8HA9

Sounds like you need a clay bar. Or my favorite, a Nanoskin sponge.

Ok so there are three 2015 and newer cars in my family and we all make sure they are always looking their best

1)I, the one who is investing and discovering the joy on detailing cars, would like to ask if there are any products i can buy in concentrates that will last me a life time such as Quick Detailers, Interior cleaner, tire, spray quick wax and wheel cleaners ETC? I see so many products in the wiki its kind of over whelming. I currently only have to last me a while for my car (Megs OTC recommended kit)

2) My Car, 2016 Mazda 3 5-door SGT, has a crap load of leather and soft interior. I kinda bit off more than i can chew in terms of maintenance. Is there and interior cleaner i can use for everything (currently have Megs Quik Interior Detailer) including the leather?

3) Are these any good? [These applicators from TCG] (https://www.amazon.com/Chemical-Guys-MIC_292_08-Microfiber-Applicators/dp/B00BTGSGFK/ref=pd_cart_pd_ecc_rvi_cart_2_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=19GM4RBQY3NSV7336751&th=1) seem to be on sale. should i stock up?

How sticky/tacky should my nanoskin sponge be? After doing the recommended break-in, I never got the white or foam/bubbles they described and it is definitely not tacky. At the edges of the rubber, it sticks a little, but the overall face of it never changed.

Are you using a sponge, brush, or something else? I’ve had best luck with an automotive wash mitt like this.

Soapy water + big loofa e.g. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003TTL0TE/ works reasonably well without having to take it apart.

I guess this wash mit is pretty Awwdorable .... ish?

Can you feel anything when you move your fingers over it? It may be worth asking r/AutoDetailing. Another option is to use a nanoskin which works like a clay bar.

I'd go with this much more economical size:

https://smile.amazon.com/Optimum-NR2010Q-Rinse-Wash-Shine/dp/B00D8DR0AO/

I haven't used the chemical guys version, but ONR seems to be loved by detailer nerds the most out of any of the products.

I use a meguiar's microfiber wash mitt or the ONR sponge make ( https://smile.amazon.com/Optimum-22516-Big-Wash-Sponge/dp/B078DPCYFV )

One bucket method if car isn't that dirty. If really dirty, I'd use two. I do full washes about 60% of the time because my ceramic coating has degraded down to where a lot of dirt remains behind if I drive through rain and I like using my power washer. When I do that I use the same wash mitt or red sponge. The wash mitt is much easier to clean (laundry) than the big red sponge (hand wash usually), but the big red sponge is maybe a bit more mar preventative.

Just get something from a reputable brand. Meguiar's is good and readily available. Another option you have is using a Nanoskin sponge, which does the same thing as clay, but can be re-used and can be rinsed off if you drop it on the ground, where with clay, if you drop it that piece of clay is done.

They are super generic but this is the style I prefer which is a sponge and a microfiber mesh on the outside. Coincidentally I bought one at home depot yesterday for under 2 bucks
https://www.amazon.com/Viking-845100-Microfiber-Sponge-Colors/dp/B001GJ7HCI

Why not get a few of these? https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Car-Wash-Mitt-Microfiber/dp/B011B25IXY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1496868503&sr=8-2&keywords=microfiber+wash+mitt

I’ve heard bad things about the clay mitts. Supposedly they fall apart instantly. Try this guy : Nanoskin (AS-019) AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CUAWJ6G. I spray the car heavily with ONR (two cap fulls into a 32 ounce spray bottle, fill the rest with water). Then I brush every section both horizontally an MF vertically with this sponge. If you drop the sponge just dip it in a bucket of water to get everything off. Smooth as glass afterwards. Top it off with some Collinite 845 and your whip will be looking tippy top!!

I personally have only used the Nanoskin sponge to decontaminate my car. It's a highly recommended clay alternative.

As for a sealant/wax, I'm not sure if my recommendations will be of any use since I just started detailing my own car over the last ~6 months. I have only tried one wax (Meguiar's Ultimate Liquid Wax) and one sealant (Opti-Seal). Longevity of the Ultimate Liquid Wax wasn't great IMO. I'd look into Collinite 845 since it's highly regarded and there are plenty of tips/tricks on how to use it.

Honestly, easiest solution may be go to with CarPro Essence or HD Speed. I don't think there are any special tips/tricks on how to use Essence or HD Speed, and both will allow you to polish and seal your paint in one step. Admittedly, I haven't looked into either much, but they are next in line for me to research.

Hope this helps! This isn't an exhaustive list of the best professional products but some of the best top rated affordable and highly rated by forums and high subscriber YouTubers. I'll try to answer questions as they come. Thanks for all tye comments and positive/critical feedback. Promise is all helps in the end!

Wash/Decontamination

1. Meguiar’s Gold Class Shampoo Car Wash - $23 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071HR14SJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
2. Mothers California Gold Clay Bar System (Best out of the packaged kits compared to “professional” line expensive clays/lubes) - $16 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002U2V1Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
3. Carpro Iron X Iron Remover 500 ml with Sprayer - $19 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004UM6DLE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
4. CarPro Eraser Intense Oil & Polish Cleanser (Rated a little higher than Gyeon Prep – A few options out there but this is cheap and works great compared to straight IPA spray/wipe. It’s not rough on the clear coat and doesn’t cause issues with using higher % of IPA over time) - $17 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00FY0XY1S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
5. 2x Five-Gallon buckets with a dirt guard in the bottom. – Lowe’s $10-$15 with the dirt guard (already had that)
   
   Wheels/Tires
   
6. CarGuys “Premium Wheel Cleaner” - $17 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014V9GFJU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
7. Mothers Mag & Aluminum Polish (Classic Product but you really won’t find a more reliable and top notch wheel polish than this – Here is Amazon link but usually you can pick this up cheaper at Walmart for about $4 or $5 I believe) - $7 - https://www.amazon.com/Mothers-05101-Mag-Aluminum-Polish/dp/B0009H519Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549046381&sr=8-3&keywords=mag+and+aluminum+polish
   
8. 1x 2.5 Gallon Bucket Dedicated To Wheel Cleaning ONLY – Lowe’s $5
   
   Compounding/Polishing
   
9. Meguiar’s New m110 (Newer m105) Compound (Try To Find A 15% Coupon) - $40 - https://www.autopia-carcare.com/meguiars-m110-pro-compound.html#.XFRhIlVKhpg
   
10. Meguiar’s New m210 (Newer m205) Finishing Polish/Swirl Remover (Try To Find A 15% Coupon) - $40 - https://www.autopia-carcare.com/meguiars-m210-pro-finishing-polish.html#.XFRhIVVKhpg
    
11. 6x Pack Lake Country CCS Compounding/Polishing Pads – 3x Orange/2x White/1x Green – $60 (Try to find a usable 15% coupon) - https://www.autopia-carcare.com/ccs-pads.html#.XFRfgVVKhpg
    
12. Meguiar’s PlastX Clear Plastic Cleaner & Polish (Using for rear/front light polishing – Could use your compound to polish as an alternative but I like the protection factor built into this plastic polish) - $5 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000AY3SR/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
13. Car Foam Drill Polishing Pad Kit - 22x Piece 3” Buffing Pads (Cheap drill adapter + pads for head/tail lights only – You could go with a legit company for 3” pads but for the cost it was a joke and they are only for head/tail lights, NOT paint) - $11 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076ZJMHB1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
    
    Finshing Wax/Protectant/Plastic & Trim Restorer
    
14. Meguiar’s Ultimate Liquid Wax - $16 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004HCM9H4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
15. TriNova Plastic & Trim Restorer (Hard Pressed to find anything as affordable for the ratings) - $13 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01AAZ1OAE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
    
    Interior/Glass Cleaners
    
16. 303 PROTECTANT: Interior & Exterior UV Protectant (Use it to wipe leather seats, dash, and plastics) - $10 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0185PU38A/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
17. Invisible Glass Premium Glass Cleaner w/ EZ Grip (Awesome stuff) - $4 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KAON5Q2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
    
    Convertible Fabric Top Cleaner/Protectant/Sealer
    
18. RaggTopp Fabric Convertible Top Cleaner/Protectant Kit (This is top in class. There aren’t really any other higher rated options. Go with kit that has cleaner/brush/protectant sealer.) - $50 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008MM5ZFI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
    
    Microfiber Cloths/Car Drying Microfiber Cloths/Buffing Microfibers/Brushes/Etc.
    
19. Zwipes Microfiber Cleaning Cloths (24-Pack) (**Found this on a couple lists online for high ratings and they are soft/Highly rated on Amazon and cheap!) - $13 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ANZHG7C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
20. Chemical Guys Chenille Microfiber Premium Scratch-Free Wash Mitt (Might consider 2-3 of them for washing the top and bottom parts of car – prevent further scratching) - $7 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TTL0TE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
21. Mothers Wheel Brush - $8 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001GJ3DZS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o07__o00_s04?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
22. Chemical Guys Microfiber Wash Cleaning Detergent Concentrate (Almost all the videos put this one as #1 compared to a couple other companies that offer dedicated microfiber wash detergent) - $10 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001TJXWH4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
23. Chemical Guys Woolly Mammoth Microfiber Dryer Towel (25 in. x 36 in.) - $25 - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0042Z0LEO/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
    
24. Other Random buffing foam applicators and microfiber cloths that came with some of the kits listed above. Will use those for compound wiping and etc.
    
25. Plastic Containers For Organization – Hefty 1.625 (Microfiber container) & 3.75 (Other products w/o squirt triggers) Gallon Containers I believe are the ones in the picture. These are awesome considering the cheap pricing. The plastic is heavy duty and the lathes aer decent all things considered. - https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hefty-1-625-Gallon-6-5-Quart-Clear-Tote-with-Latching-Lid/1000505511
    
    

Yes you can use that one, I actually have this one. I bought a two pack in case something happens with one so I'll have one on hand.

The interior was easy. Vacuum, wiped down with Nextzett Cockpit Premium, and dressed some parts with 303. The only bad thing was I was vacuuming in the sun, so it was hot af. The paint had oxidation, but the owner didn't have much time so I only washed it and sealed it with Sonax Polymer Net Shield.

Thank you for all the feedback and tips! Is this what you were referencing to?

Also that is hilarious, how was cleaning my car compared to other cars?

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

Do you have wide spaces in your wheels? I think I just need to bite the built and get one of those speed brushes can I have a lot of tiny holes my wide face brush cant reach. I bought this thing and it was still a struggle for the small stuff.

It is an 05. Paint is in decent condition but a lot of contamination. It was sitting under a sap tree for 2 years. I spent about an hour claying the hood and it removed maybe 70% but there was a lot of stuff. I was using chemical guys clay.

Thank you..glad you said something :)

Like this

When using a clay bar alternative like this, do you apply it the same as you would a clay bar? Wet the surface with an auto detailing spray, then gently pass back and forth with the bar until it slides smoothly?

Save your money, just get this and this instead and start washing. You'll find out what else you want/need as you go.

Hello!

So I've been lurking here for several weeks trying to soak up what I can. I've checked out the wiki page on starter kits and I guess I'm just wondering a couple things based on the list to get myself going.

Gonna get the buckets and the grit guards. I've got a ton of microfibers I use for my car already.

I was thinking of getting the Griot's DA polisher recommended (here)[https://www.amazon.com/Griots-Garage-10813STDCRD-Orbital-Polisher/dp/B009UKUUWE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1462198536&sr=1-1&keywords=griots+da+polisher&linkCode=ll1&linkId=3a68733089f6c8d0f136c31b5c3bb8d1]

I guess I'm wondering what chemicals I should be using on my vehicle?

I do live in an apartment complex though so I DO NOT have access to a hose because our landlord has got it under lock and key. I read a few days ago about a product that someone used outside and it was still ok (though I do have access to a garage!).

I guess I'm just more lost as to where to start besides the DA polisher.

edit: Oh! I've used a clay bar before and while it was nice, I was wondering about this nanoskin sponge that's also recommended.

https://www.amazon.com/Nanoskin-AS-019-AutoScrub-Grade-Sponge/dp/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1462198361&sr=1-1&keywords=nanoskin&linkCode=ll1&linkId=4c532041fcdbfa6b35f768083c70423e

Is that like a 1:1 sub for clay bars? Same thing just not wasted if dropped?

I believe clay bar qualities are different. Just like with most stuff, generally the higher the quality, the more expensive it is. The cheaper ones I've worked with have streaked heavily and more often. Depending on the vehicles condition, and how often you detail, a clay bar can last a long time. This CLAYBAR is pretty cheap & plenty of people like it. For a clay sponge it does the job.

Adding on to this - if you don't have access to a hose you can use

ONR with washmitt then dried with microfiber towels.

For bug removal, I highly recommend these products:

https://www.turtlewax.com/en-us/our-products/renew-restore/turtle-wax-bug-tar-remover/

https://smile.amazon.com/Viking-845100-Car-Care-Cleaning/dp/B001GJ7HCI/

For pure ease of use, I'd recommend this. It's a clay alternative that is very easy to use.

Nanoskin (AS-018) AutoScrub Medium Grade Sponge https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CUAWEUM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_5TRPCbY0T67MR

Make sure to use a lot of lube (I prefer Optimum No Rinse for just about everything. Car wash, instant detailer, ultra diluted for interior cleaning and glass, less diluted as clay lube).

Also, make sure your panels are cool, which you should be doing for any wash if you can help it.

Did you not decontaminate the paint with clay or alternative??!

Oh boy. Your paint is supposed to feel VERY smooth after a wash, clay, and wax. Here's a review of a nanoskin sponge which is 100% worth it I wrote. My car feels so smooth it's ridiculous.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00CUAWJ6G/

http://www.reddit.com/r/AutoDetailing/comments/2bjc99/the_best_10_ive_spent_detailing_nanoskin/

Not decontaminating your paint also results in you rubbing abrasive particles into your clear coat and swirling it.

Here's my advice-

1. Buy the nanoskin product I linked
   
   
2. Wash your car with dawn dish soap. This strips and existing wax so you can get back under it.
   
   
3. Dry the car.
   
   
4. Use the nanoskin sponge and decontaminate the entire surface of your car.
   
   
5. Protect with wax or sealant.

Hi, Can i remove swirl marks with this equipment?

Hi,
I have a red 2015 Fiesta ST, I have looked after it quite carefully always following procedure when washing (I dont let anyone else wash my car). It still looks great, to the untrained eye it looks 'new', but as a regular visitor to this sub i can tell it could do with some polishing and general deep cleaning, as there are swirl marks.
I just bought some basic equipment, ie, carnauba wax + new wash mit, tire gel etc...
For polishing, i only bought Autoglym super resin polish, new microfibres and hand applicators, these things - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002PX5H9Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Is this enough equipment to help rejuvenate the paint? Should i have got a clay bar?
What technique should i use when applying the polish with the above applicators?
Any advice would be much appreciated.
Thanks

> sta ST, I have looked after it quite carefully always following procedure when washing (I dont let anyone else wash my car). It still looks great, to the untrained eye it looks 'new', but as a regular visitor to this sub i can tell it could do with some polishing and general deep cleaning, as there are swirl marks. I just bought some basic equipment, ie, carnauba wax + new wash mit, tire gel etc... For polishing, i only bought Autoglym super resin polish, new microfibres and hand applicators, these things - https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002PX5H9Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Is this enough equipment to help rejuvenate the paint? Should i have got a clay bar? What technique should i use when applying the polish with the above applicators? Any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks

technically speaking yes, there is nothing stopping you but your arm might be exhausted after

I used to use those microfiber circular applicator pads but didn't like them. No where to really grip it from and it just felt awkward using it. And then I found the microfiber blocks and they made the job MUCH easier. Bigger coverage as well as a place for your hands to hold. I'd recommend these over the circle pads any day.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BTGSGFK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'm not sure what barrels are on wheels, but I clean my wheels with this.

Awesome! Thank you for the help.

For the Carpro Perl. Am i suppose to dilute it? Also for appying it do you recommend oine of these to apply it 1 2 3

I'm thinking #1 for applying the wax and #2 for the plastic trim.

So my first ever detail is planned out like is this

1. Foam Cannon wash + rinse
   
2. ONR Rinseless wash + dry
   
3. ONR Lube + Nanoskin AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CUAWJ6G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)
   
4. Meguiars ScratchX 2.0 Polish and buff off with MF towel
   
5. Wax
   
   My understanding is polish basically scrapes a layer off in order to go deep, is there anything i need to "refill" that digging?
   
   Does my order of detailing sound good, in other words do i need to add anything else?

I use the following wash mitt can confirm it works well. Haven’t observed any swirl marks as of yet.

wax for the interior? I was thinking of the 3m style spray on plastic stuff that I assumed was used on the seats and other surfaces to prevent dust buildup.


The brush is the Nanoskin (AS-019) AutoScrub Fine Grade Sponge http://amzn.com/B00CUAWJ6G

obviously should have called it a sponge!

I have three that I alternate between, and I like all three of them equally. I actually think 2 of the 3 are identical.

TheRagCompany - http://www.theragcompany.com/knobby-microfiber-chenille-mitt/
Autopia-Car Care - http://www.autopia-carcare.com/super-plush-wash-mitt.html
Chemical Guys - http://amzn.com/B003TTL0TE

I've been using something like this. It's a wonderful pad, highly recommend it.

Chemical Guys microfiber wash mitt for ~$6 on Amazon

I was actually looking into getting the Nanoskin version of this and I am so scared of it instilling swirls into my paint. Somebody please help me make a decision, I need some pros / cons.