Using the Clay Bar

So what is this clay treatment anyway?

  A clay bar is about the size of a bar of soap. It reminds me of a toy we used to play with when I was a kid. Anyone remember "play-dough"? Well, the clay bar can be folded and stretched in much the same way. It's a great product for the auto detailer. When rubbed on the finish of the vehicle it will pick up all the contaminants that used to have to be buffed out with a high speed buffer.

     In a moment I'll get into how the clay bar works, but first I want you understand that the clay bar won't take the place of a high speed buffer if there is oxidation (faded paint) or minor scratches and other paint imperfections to repair.

     How the Clay Bar Works

     First you must thoroughly wash and dry the vehicle, making sure to remove all tar and grease. Next apply the detail spray to a small section of the surface. This detail spray usually comes with the clay kit . You can also use products like final finish or showroom shine. Now, just rub the clay on the surface in a back and forth motion. Because the clay is pliable, it will conform to the shape of your vehicle.

When you're done with a section or two, feel the area you just clayed and compare it to an area you haven't done yet. Can you feel the difference? Now look at the clay and you'll see all the trapped contaminants in the clay bar. Just keep folding and kneading the clay as you work. This will keep the clay clean.

     Ready for Waxing

     After the surface is clayed it's ready to be waxed. The wax will adhere to the surface and last longer if the contaminants have been removed first.

     Some Clay Tips

     Make sure you never drop the clay on the ground. If you do, you'll have to throw it away. Any dirt or debris that the clay picks up on the ground will scratch your vehicle. It's best to just toss it out. We like to cut the clay in half and use just one piece at a time. Then, if it drops or gets filled with contaminants , we still have one piece left.

     It's important not to over use the clay. Once it gets filled with contaminants (maybe 4 or 5 uses) it can scratch the finish, this can be very visible on dark colored cars and might have to be buffed out.

Adam's Clay Bar and Detail spray Combo

This is the same clay and detail spray that we use at the shop. After washing the vehicle, just spray the surface with a small amount of detail spray and rub the clay back and forth. That's about it. It's really not rocket science. This is an important step that should not be overlooked when waxing your vehicle. You'll definitely feel the difference on the surface of your vehicle. You'll also feel better knowing that the wax will adhere to the surface better. This will give you a longer lasting shine. 

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