How to Use a Clay Mitt: A Beginner's Guide to Fast, Safe Decontamination

The clay mitt is famously user-friendly, but proper technique is key to achieving perfect, scratch-free results. Follow this guide to become an expert.

• A quality clay mitt
• A bucket of car wash soap solution (as lubricant)
• A second bucket of clean water (for rinsing the mitt)
• A hose or pressure washer for rinsing the car
• Several clean, plush microfiber drying towels

This is the most efficient way to use a clay mitt.

Step 1: The Initial Wash
Thoroughly wash your car using the two-bucket method to eliminate all loose,surface-level grit. Do not dry the car.

Step 2: Lubricate and Clay
Your soapy water is now your lubricant.Put the clay mitt on your hand and dip it into the soapy water bucket. Working on one section at a time (e.g., one door), gently glide the mitt over the wet, soapy paint. Use straight, back-and-forth motions with light to medium pressure.

Step 3: Listen and Feel
You might hear a light"squeaking" sound as it works. More importantly, you will feel the surface become noticeably smoother under the mitt.

Step 4: Rinse the Mitt and the Panel
After every one or two passes,rinse the mitt in your bucket of clean water to release the contaminants it has picked up. This is crucial to prevent marring. Once a panel is done, rinse it with clean water from your hose.

Step 5: Dry the Panel
Immediately dry the freshly clayed and rinsed panel with a clean microfiber towel to prevent water spots.

Step 6: Final Rinse and Protect
Once the entire car is done,give it a final rinse, ensure it's completely dry, and apply a protective layer of wax or sealant. The paint is now perfectly clean and ready to accept maximum protection.