Is using detailing spray and carefully wiping with a microfiber cloth a good substitute for a car wash? My car has been absolutely filthy this month and I haven't been able to make it in time to go to a car wash. I would have thought that no matter what you use, picking up debris with a microfiber cloth and even wiping a little would be detrimental to the paint no?

 

If its just dust from sitting in a garage, I think detail spray is fine as a touch up. If its dirt/grime/road dust then I think you need to get some suds and water. Debris on the microfiber cloth is still debris and can scratch paint a little...nothing you probably can't claybar, buff out at the next wash though.

 

Thanks. I wish I had a house to I can wash my car at during the winter but that looks like it is out.

 

They make this spray foam wash stuff now...bascially spray can that foams up a soap and water mix. You spray it on your car and the foam helps to lift dirt/debris...gives you a better soak/clean than detail spray. I forget what its called but saw it at pepboys..thought it might be a good alternative on show days when you have to drive for a bit.

 

That is pretty cool. I'll take a look. If anyone comes up with a dry car wash system I'll be in line for that as well.

 

As long as my car isnt crazy filthy I use a waterless wash. A local detailer with a FD told me a bout it. For the past year I have only used water on my car once and that was right after a meet that involved a lengthy cruise. My car was covered in bugs and road grime.

Even after washing the car down with water I used the waterless wash to finish it off. The stuff is simply amazing. I do not get swirls,or water marks, plus its easier to keep the car clean 99% of the time.

poorboysworld.com is the product I use. Since I had such great success with the paint, I also picked up the rim cleaner. That did not work well for me, and I gave it away.

You could always buy a small bottle to test it out with.

 

http://www.autopia.org/forum/car-det...-wash-qew.html

Quick Easy Wash if you must. Read up on it. I taught my sister in California how to use QEW because technically she is not allowed to wash her car with the hose (drought issues). I then shipped an extra gallon to her. Easy to use and safe for grime that are too much for quick detailing sprays (anything more than light/hardly visible dust).

Join the forum. I have been on the forum for 7 years and have learned so much and was a detailer during my late high school years on the weekends.

 

Very cool guys thanks.