What type of cloth to use to wash your car?

brancky3

Nothing wrong with a grout sponge, a ton of detailing folks swear by it. Obviously they are single use, but like $1.50/ea so no big deal

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JARblue

They can swear all they want. They're still scratching the hell out of their paint. A sponge will retain dirt particles after one wipe and rinse in your rinse bucket. These remaining particles will scratch your paint on the next wipe. This is why you need a proper wash mitt that will actually release all dirt particles into the rinse bucket. And you need a grit guard at the bottom of said bucket to keep the dirt at the bottom and the rinse water clean.

And $1.50 for single use is pretty outrageous for something that is going to damage your paint. I paid $15 for a nice lambswool wash mitt that'll I'll get far more than 10 uses out of (with proper cleaning after each use).

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brancky3

I would be more worried that you're only using one bucket.
Edit: noticed you said rinse bucket implying there is also a wash bucket. Hope you're using two!

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JARblue

I have a foam gun and the Mr. Clean wash system (almost out of filters ), either of which can act as my wash bucket. They can both spray water or soap with the flick of a switch. I even rinse my wash mitt before I stick it in the rinse bucket to keep the dirt in the bucket down. It's a bit more wasteful on water but I go months without washing at times, so I'd rather use the extra water and be easier on my paint.

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kenchan

problem with sponges is that it keeps the grit on the top surface of the sponge while you drag the grit on your paint when you spread the shampoo... resulting in swirls and holograms.

wash mitts are pretty cheap and washable. just get the right tools.

brancky3

I'll definitely look into a mitt. I figured the problem would be way less severe with a foam cannon, but better safe than sorry!

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JARblue

You went Premium didn't you? What are you wearing?

Oh sorry, back on topic I think you may be on to something as my foam gun can spit out some pretty thick foam (short of professional level foam). I still recommend a nice wash mitt. Good quality towels and mitts and pads can last a fairly long time if proper care is taken. Same with you car's paint

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brancky3

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