Austin
FTF's #1 Knob Polisher
I have compiled a list of things that are a must have for the DIY detailer, novice or advanced. These items are great for stepping up your results to the next level and are more affordable than you'd think! After reading through this guide, check out some automotive detailing websites for pricing and more advice. (ChemicalGuys.com -or- AutoGeek.net are great places to start)
1. Vacuum. Your household vacuum isn't built for automotive use... you also don't like sleeping on the couch. Do yourself a favor and invest in a small wet/dry vac strictly for automotive cleaning sessions. There's no need to spring for the top dollar 10 gallon, a small 1.5 gallon unit is usually adequate (unless you own a boat; look into buying something close to a 5 gallon for optimal water extraction). A Shop-vac brand 1.5 gallon runs about $28.
2. Vacuum Micro Tools. Usually sold in a kit consisting of smaller tools for fine detail cleaning. These tools can be used for cleaning recessed areas of dash boards, dusting between controls and buttons, seat seams and more. Having a micro tool kit makes a world of difference to your final product. Kits can be had for around $15.
3. Chamois. Towels are used to dry your body, not your car. A synthetic drying chamois is an excellent time saver and paint-not-scratcher-er. Look to spend anywhere from $10-15 on a decent piece.
4. Strainer/Grit Guard. Using a regular household plastic strainer or grit guard is one of the easiest ways to prevent scratching your paint when washing. Place it convex side up in the bottom of your 5 gallon wash bucket and fill with soap & water. Your wash mitt sits on top of the strainer instead of sinking to the bottom of the bucket where dirt and debris often settle. I wouldn't spend a dollar over 10 for one.
5. Microfiber Towels. Terry towels are the devil. Cotton towels are commies. Don't even think of letting them anywhere near your paint! Microfiber towels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and blends. Investing in a set of about 10 will save you from nightmares down the road. Spring for a good set, but look to spend anywhere from $20-40 for quality. Here's a hint, your auto parts store sells them... but you don't buy them there!
1. Vacuum. Your household vacuum isn't built for automotive use... you also don't like sleeping on the couch. Do yourself a favor and invest in a small wet/dry vac strictly for automotive cleaning sessions. There's no need to spring for the top dollar 10 gallon, a small 1.5 gallon unit is usually adequate (unless you own a boat; look into buying something close to a 5 gallon for optimal water extraction). A Shop-vac brand 1.5 gallon runs about $28.
2. Vacuum Micro Tools. Usually sold in a kit consisting of smaller tools for fine detail cleaning. These tools can be used for cleaning recessed areas of dash boards, dusting between controls and buttons, seat seams and more. Having a micro tool kit makes a world of difference to your final product. Kits can be had for around $15.
3. Chamois. Towels are used to dry your body, not your car. A synthetic drying chamois is an excellent time saver and paint-not-scratcher-er. Look to spend anywhere from $10-15 on a decent piece.
4. Strainer/Grit Guard. Using a regular household plastic strainer or grit guard is one of the easiest ways to prevent scratching your paint when washing. Place it convex side up in the bottom of your 5 gallon wash bucket and fill with soap & water. Your wash mitt sits on top of the strainer instead of sinking to the bottom of the bucket where dirt and debris often settle. I wouldn't spend a dollar over 10 for one.
5. Microfiber Towels. Terry towels are the devil. Cotton towels are commies. Don't even think of letting them anywhere near your paint! Microfiber towels come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and blends. Investing in a set of about 10 will save you from nightmares down the road. Spring for a good set, but look to spend anywhere from $20-40 for quality. Here's a hint, your auto parts store sells them... but you don't buy them there!
