Applying wax to a car query

[sparks_190e]

I've always used a dry microfiber cloth to apply wax with decent long lasting results, a nosey neighbor told me that I should wet the cloth first. As I was nearly finished I didn't bother though. Can't really find a definitive answer on this, any thoughts?

[PompeyReece]

Never wetted a cloth when applying or buffing off wax however I always following the product's instructions.

Probably worth doing the same - I guess there may be some that require moisture but I've not come across them.

[Paul_M3]

Autoglym HD and UHD wax was come with an applicator pad rather than a cloth.

The instructions for those say that the pad should be kept moistened.

I haven’t seen the same instructions on other waxes though. It could be that your neighbour has Autoglym wax himself and has (incorrectly) extrapolated their instructions to cover all waxes.

[Gio G]

Never heard of the wet cloth.. however what already has been said, applicator pad it probably the best thing to use..

G

[D'oh]

No - Don't do that

[Chris32345]

Depends what you call Wax
The old fashioned stuff that's like a paste you need dry
More modern stuff that's usually spray on often need to be applied after you have rinsed the car

[sparks_190e]

Chris32345 said:

Depends what you call Wax
The old fashioned stuff that's like a paste you need dry
More modern stuff that's usually spray on often need to be applied after you have rinsed the car

I just use the green bottled turtle wax, it's all I've ever used and appears to do the trick.

[paintman]

What do the instructions on your chosen substance tell you to do?

[Summit_Detailing]

The only reason I can think of to wet the applicator is to reduce product dusting - which used to apply to products from 30yrs ago! it is also an insider tip for users of Autoglym window polish and the early versions of super resin.

Most waxes from many brands will say to either use a foam or microfiber applicator - no reason why you can't use a microfibre cloth, for some that may be more ergonomic.

Happy waxing!

Cheers,

Chris

[Ritchie335is]

I always thought that using a damp pad / cloth was to prevent the polish soaking into the pad.

[Chubbyross]

I’ve heard this before. Most waxes I’ve used never require a moist cloth or applicator. Some detailers suggest moistening an applicator for some waxes that might be overly clingy to buff off. I’ve heard this said about Fusso wax, for example. I would just go with the manufacturer’s advice. They made the stuff so will have tested it extensively.

[Sump]

A decent wax wouldn't need a damp microfibre to work it. See here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4tZFSQhPGE&t=...

[trickywoo]

Bilt Hamber say to moisten the applicator for their award winning double speed wax.

I’ve done it wet and dry and not noticed any difference apart from the pad feeling nicer moist over the paint.

A washing up sponge isn’t massively different in texture to some expensive applicators btw.

[xjay1337]

sparks_190e said:

I've always used a dry microfiber cloth to apply wax with decent long lasting results, a nosey neighbor told me that I should wet the cloth first. As I was nearly finished I didn't bother though. Can't really find a definitive answer on this, any thoughts?

Ex pro detailer here.

Apply the wax using your applicator pad. nice and thin.
buff off with a dry cloth following the instructions for "curing" time and such like.


i've never come across a REALLY hard wax to remove, usually they are "hard to use" because the hobbyist puts far too much product on as they think the more the better! you're just wasting product! :-) or they apply it to a very hot car in direct sunlight!

you should barely even be able to see it on the paint when it's applied.

[W201_190e]

xjay1337 said:

sparks_190e said:

I've always used a dry microfiber cloth to apply wax with decent long lasting results, a nosey neighbor told me that I should wet the cloth first. As I was nearly finished I didn't bother though. Can't really find a definitive answer on this, any thoughts?

Ex pro detailer here.

Apply the wax using your applicator pad. nice and thin.
buff off with a dry cloth following the instructions for "curing" time and such like.


i've never come across a REALLY hard wax to remove, usually they are "hard to use" because the hobbyist puts far too much product on as they think the more the better! you're just wasting product! :-) or they apply it to a very hot car in direct sunlight!

you should barely even be able to see it on the paint when it's applied.

Thank you, to all. Any recommendations to a good applicator?

[xjay1337]

Any of those circular sponge ones.


https://www.amazon.co.uk/nuoshen-Applicator-Microf...


They're fine to use a couple of times each when kept in the pot with the wax, so 12 would realistically last you a very long time.

you can get stupid waffle applicators with a handles like this : https://www.amazon.co.uk/G3-Pro-7167-Professional-...

but they're honestly a waste of money.

simplicity is the best way.

[Wacky Racer]

NEVER wax a car in very hot weather, or wash it

[W201_190e]

Wacky Racer said:

NEVER wax a car in very hot weather, or wash it

I don't, I always do it early evening in the summer.