Clay Bars and Lubricants

The clay bar has made a lot of progress over the past several years. A few years ago, clay was exclusively used by professional detailers and body shops.  And now, detailing enthusiasts are getting into the act. The secret is finally out. If you want a smooth surface, you need a clay bar!

Clay removes the bonded contaminants that get stuck to your paint. These contaminants include brake dust, rail dust, industrial fallout, overspray, sap and bird dropping residue.  Clay acts like an eraser to grab and remove those particles from the paint leaving behind a nice smooth surface. Basic physics tells us a smooth surface reflects light better than a rough one. The smoother the surface, the better the shine. Claying should be the first step in any full detail after your initial wash. 

Clay is actually quite easy to use. Simply cut off a portion of the clay and form it into a pancake with your hands. Spray clay lube on the area and lightly rub the clay across the surface. As you rub, you will actually feel and even hear the clay working. Once the clay glides easily across the surface, wipe off the excess lube and go to the next section and repeat the process. As the clay gets dirty, stretch it out, fold it over to reveal a clean surface and form into another pancake.  One word of caution:  If you drop your clay bar...THROW IT AWAY!  It will be full of dirt from the floor and scratch up your precious paint.