Car cleaning products

[FashionFiend]

Hi, having just forked out for a full valet for my car again, I've decided to start cleaning it myself to save money. What cleaning products/tools would you recommend? Thanks!

Use wash mitts not sponges and drying towels rather than chamois leathers. Lots of good brands out there. Personally I tend to use Meguiars and Chemical Guys. Also, it depends how far you want to take it, I use a snowfoam pre-wash, two buckets, grit guard etc.

Also, a good wheel cleaning brush is a great investment!

I always use AutoGlym products. I think I'm the only person who washes my car by hand where I live (I do also take it to the car valet sometimes). My neighbours stare at me like I've taken leave of my senses. Two buckets is definitely key.

I have always used AutoGlym products on my cars and NEVER take them to hand car washes - i've had way too many bad experiences! I'd agree using the two bucket method, one for washing and one for collecting the grit/dirt. I use the shampoo for cleaning and then finish off with the polish to give it extra protection and shine! Use Microfibre towels over chamois leathers too , dries the car much quicker and helps grab any loose contaminants on the body work.

People clean their cars?
Isn't that what rain is for?

I agree that the method is more important than the products.

In any case, the products I would recommend will depend on your budget. If I was just starting out, I'd recommend you buy valet pro citrus pre-wash, a manual pump garden sprayer, adams wash pad, two buckets, zaino z7 shampoo and some drying towels. If you haven't washed your car for ages, then you should use a clay bar; I find the bilt hamber stuff to be excellent.

After that it's just about polish and protection. You can get good results with lots of different products, but I quite like gtechniq p1 if you're polishing by hand.

I have "Greased Lightning" waterless cleaner.

Pretty quick, no faff. It did use more than it promised but my car was manky to begin.

Must wear gloves though, my nails didn't recover well.

My husband loves cleaning his car and I guess it makes him feel great to see the car in good shape after its done. He is known for absolutely loving his car and keeping it clean.

He usually does the interior cleaning, exterior cleaning and waxing. He uses
Triplewax Car Shampoo
Meguiar's Ultimate Wash & Wax
Autoglym Super Resin Polish