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Crystal Mist - love it but it's stupid expensive. I can't buy it. Originally I beta tested it and Nick gave me 32 oz. I'm trying to milk it but I'm quickly running out. It's great but way way overpriced.
Truth is the biggest difference in these products is the smell & cost. For me the Optimum is the perfect product and like most things made by Optimum, works as advertise with little to no fuss. In terms of smell, the winner hands down is the Adam's Polishes Detail Spray - but AG doesn't sell it. My brother is addicted - haha.
The other way to go is punt the detail spray and mix up some of your favorite waterless wash with carnauba product and use it as your detail spray. Much more cost effect and works great. Here are a few suggestions:
Crystal Mist - love it but it's stupid expensive. I can't buy it. Originally I beta tested it and Nick gave me 32 oz. I'm trying to milk it but I'm quickly running out. It's great but way way overpriced.
Truth is the biggest difference in these products is the smell & cost. For me the Optimum is the perfect product and like most things made by Optimum, works as advertise with little to no fuss. In terms of smell, the winner hands down is the Adam's Polishes Detail Spray - but AG doesn't sell it. My brother is addicted - haha.
The other way to go is punt the detail spray and mix up some of your favorite waterless wash with carnauba product and use it as your detail spray. Much more cost effect and works great. Here are a few suggestions:
Car shampoo suggestions. I would recommend trying a small bottle of each first so you can test them out. All three work well in a foaming gun or just in a conventional two bucket wash. Lost count of how many different shampoos I tried and these are my hands down favorites. The Ultima was my go to product and I would buy that by the gallon - just a great all around product. If you don't want to order online, then I suggest the Meguiars as you can pick that up almost anywhere...Autozone, WalMart, Target etc.
Crystal Mist - love it but it's stupid expensive. I can't buy it. Originally I beta tested it and Nick gave me 32 oz. I'm trying to milk it but I'm quickly running out. It's great but way way overpriced.
Truth is the biggest difference in these products is the smell & cost. For me the Optimum is the perfect product and like most things made by Optimum, works as advertise with little to no fuss. In terms of smell, the winner hands down is the Adam's Polishes Detail Spray - but AG doesn't sell it. My brother is addicted - haha.
The other way to go is punt the detail spray and mix up some of your favorite waterless wash with carnauba product and use it as your detail spray. Much more cost effect and works great. Here are a few suggestions:
Thanks for rec of Wolfgang Uber. Works great as detail spray! So good in fact, I’m thinking, what if I were to switch over to a WG product line from Zaino?
Hi All, I'm looking for some advice on which products to purchase for interior leather maintenance. I have the "Natural Leather Interior in Espresso/Cognac" in my car.
It's in great condition now, just looking for best methods to maintain so it looks good as new 10 years from now. I've already read advice on how to enter and not slide across the bolster.
I've read about leatherique and saw some really cool before and afters. It looks great for more dirty/older seats, if okay for long terms use and maintenance I can purchase. I've also heard of Zaino, and saw ammo lather. In my BMW, I've maintained by dipping a toothbrush in warm water and srubbing the seat, and wiping off with a microfiber towel every 6 months.
So what do experts recommend for me to purchase? I'm guessing I need a (1) separate cleaner conditioner, (2) conditioner, and (3) hair brush. I would like a matte OEM look, okay with a new car/leather smell, and nothing oily/slick looking.
I tried to pick products to recommend that are readily available either through brick & mortar or the internet. There are also many boutique products in all categories many of which I've tried and liked. But again, since I'm trying to help a broader audience - I've made broader product recommendations.
For those who don't know, Autogeek is the 800 lb gorilla of detailing supplies on the internet but never ever buy from them without a min of -15% and reduced shipping charges. A good sale is -20% and free shipping - so just wait them out. There is always another promotion coming - trust me. Around the holidays you can get -25% so make your list and wait for the sale but note they are typically very time sensitive. There are obviously other solid internet companies but...AG does a nice job and if there's ever a problem, they fix it.
Hope this serves as a starting point for all. There are lots of YouTube Videos on proper detailing techniques for those in need.
Vinegar & Water diluted 1-1 for cleaning glass - spray onto towel first. Avoid overspray onto painted surfaces
KIMBERLY CLARK WYPALL Cloths w/Microban - KIM83630 http://www.ebay.com/itm/Kimberly-cla...item4d1932d06f If you want clean streak free glass, these towels are a must. Usually 6 towels for less the $20 if you search just a little. Trust me, it's all about the towel and not the window cleaner. You won't be sorry.
POLISHES, PAINT CLEANSER, SEALANTS, WAXES & CLAY BARS
Paint Cleansers - non-abrasive polish
Klasse AIO Paint Cleanser - great product but contains a sealant. I prefer to use just a cleaner and apply my own sealant/wax. Good when you need/want an AIO. (all in one) http://www.autogeek.net/klasalpolsea2.html
Nanoskin & Clay bars
Nanoskin Pad truly a gee whiz product that is luxury turned necessity. Replaces traditional clay bar and allows you to decon the paint in a fraction of the time and effort. Cheaper in the long run then clay. Get the medium grade version in the size desired. I have stopped using conventional clay as a result of buying this product! But old school clay bars work just fine. http://www.autogeek.net/nanoskin-aut...ium-grade.html
Glide concentrated lube for Nanoskin products this is what's recommended by Nanoskin and since it's such a high tech product, I use it exclusively though any clay lube would "probably" work, but...I'm sticking with Glide.
Nanoskin Glide Instant Detail Spray Lubricant Concentrate 16 oz.
POLISHES-COMPOUNDS for defect correction
Remember the detailers creed. Least aggressive product is best and do a test spot first.
Most aggressive - max cut compound
Meguiars M101 cut rating = 12
Probably the most aggressive cut compound on the mkt and something I use strictly on badly neglected cars. http://www.autogeek.net/meguiars-m10...-compound.html
aggressive
Menzerna Fast Gloss 400 Compound (FG400) cut rating = 10
Instead of M#105 since it's easier to wipe off and has longer working time. I've seen it used with a white pad as a one step. Awesome product. http://www.autogeek.net/menzerna-fast-gloss.html
more aggressive
Meguiars Ultimate Compound cut rating = 7- an excellent over the counter product that can be found everywhere. Easy to work with and does a great job. Can function as an All In One. http://www.autogeek.net/meguiars-ultimate-compound.html
mid level aggressive
Optimum Hyper Spray Polish - cut rating = 5 a little strange since it's spray on application method but it's a great polish and I would highly recommend it. http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-hyper-polish-spray.html
POLISHES-FINE POLISH
after compounding you would generally use one of these fine polishes to remove the micro marring and achieve max gloss. Also can be used as a standalone for light touch ups and minor defect removal
Meguiars Mirror Glaze #205 Ultra Finishing Polish cut rating = 4 one of the standards of the industry and available everywhere. Great stuff and should be in everyone's cabinet. http://www.autogeek.net/meguiars-205-polish-8oz.html
POLISHES, SEALANTS, WAXES & CLAY BARS (continued)
SEALANTS - Spray on
Blackfire Crystal Seal (WOWA -wipe on, walk away) New High Tech Spray-on Sealants. Nothing is easier to apply and only takes 10 minutes to seal the entire car. And the best part is it's WOWA!!! Since it's so easy to use, apply 3 coats for max effect, waiting 30 minutes between applications. Buy on sale or BOGO. http://www.autogeek.net/blackfire-crystal-seal.html
Carnauba Waxes - "old school" style waxes. The sky is the limit and the possibilities endless when it comes to Last Step Products (LSP). Here's a few of my favorites but let me note that the key difference between all these LSPs is not the gloss/shine but rather the experience in applying the product and the longevity. For a comprehensive list with brief descriptions & reviews, see the link below. http://www.live2detail.com/showthrea...ly-Nuba-Thread
Collinite #845 - liquid and meant to be applied by machine. This wax is tough as nails and will last 6-8 mos. If you follow Nick's directions, super easy to apply & remove. Apply by hand or machine, wait 45-60 minutes and remove by hand with soft MF towel. One of my favorite combinations is 1-2 coats of #845 topped with 2 coats of BlackFire Crystal Seal. Unbeatable for the price!! Search Nick's article on how to use. I use this as my "base coat" of protection whenever I'm doing a full detail on one of my cars. Especially good on white & light colored paint. A must have! http://www.autogeek.net/collinite-in...r-wax-845.html
Pinnacle Signature Series II - carnauba paste wax that's super easy to remove with a great look. Apply one panel at a time and then remove. They make a 3 oz jar which I recommend to start with. http://www.autogeek.net/pisisepawax.html
Wolfgang Fuzion- hybrid paste wax that's super easy to remove with a great look. Apply one panel at a time and then remove-impressive results. They make a 3 oz jar which I recommend to start with due to price. http://www.autogeek.net/wolfgang-fuzion-wax-sample.html
RINSELESS WASH
Wolfgang Uber Rinseless Wash is a highly concentrated, viscous liquid that creates 3 gallons of rinse-free wash solution with just one ounce of concentrate. Rinse-free wash? That’s correct! Wolfgang Uber Rinseless Wash with its advanced formula enables you to wash your entire vehicle without rinsing it off. This time-saving solution cuts your water usage by 90% while making it possible to wash your car virtually anywhere, including apartment complexes, car shows, and anywhere else that a hose is not available. http://www.autogeek.net/wg-3701.html
Optimum No Rinse Wash & Wax is yet another revolutionary product from Optimum Polymer Technologies. Dr. David Ghodoussi - the brains behind Optimum car care products - managed to fuse his award-winning No Rinse Wash & Shine with the patented UV inhibitors found in Optimum Car Wax to create an all-new product – Optimum No Rinse Wash & Wax. The latest innovation from Optimum Polymer Technologies promises to deliver the convenience of a rinseless car wash with the cutting-edge protection of advanced UV inhibitors and high-grade carnauba wax. http://www.autogeek.net/no-rinse-wash-and-wax.html
MICROFIBER TOWELS
Drying Towel
The best of the best MF Towels - German made.
I know these towels cost a fortune but....if I had to do it over, I would buy nothing else. Here's the link to Corey's website - he's the only USA distributor for Microfiber Madness. And trust me, the right towel makes a tremendous difference http://www.carpro-us.com/microfiber-madness/
Drying
WAVERIDE Waffle Weave for drying. Just fantastic and durable. (2)
DRY ME CRAZY makes for the perfect second wipe drying towel Combined with their waffle weave, best drying combo I've found. (2)
Waxing & Detailing
CRAZY PILE (16" X 16") best for "final wipe" after a waterless wash, applying detail spray & final wipe after waxing (4)
SLOGGER is their best deal and if you use another towel for added bulk, this is a great buffing towel, spreading sealant and interior cleaning at a reasonable price. A little thin on its own. (6)
Wheels, Rims & Door Jams
Costco. they sell a pack of 30 towels for $15 which I bought and use as my tire & rim towels. These are a must have for the dedicated super dirty jobs. Make sure you wash them first and separately from your prime towels
Hi All, I'm looking for some advice on which products to purchase for interior leather maintenance. I have the "Natural Leather Interior in Espresso/Cognac" in my car.
It's in great condition now, just looking for best methods to maintain so it looks good as new 10 years from now. I've already read advice on how to enter and not slide across the bolster.
I've read about leatherique and saw some really cool before and afters. It looks great for more dirty/older seats, if okay for long terms use and maintenance I can purchase. I've also heard of Zaino, and saw ammo lather. In my BMW, I've maintained by dipping a toothbrush in warm water and srubbing the seat, and wiping off with a microfiber towel every 6 months.
So what do experts recommend for me to purchase? I'm guessing I need a (1) separate cleaner conditioner, (2) conditioner, and (3) hair brush. I would like a matte OEM look, okay with a new car/leather smell, and nothing oily/slick looking.
get leather masters strong cleaner and protection cream. Wipe on and off with a good quality microfiber cloth. It goes on with a matte finish just what your looking for.
with consistent maintenance on your seats you won't need to anything as abrasive as a brush to agitate your seats.
ATLBond...hahaha yes, I've attended a few concours events in my time. But kidding aside, you don't need to be part of the q tip crowd to detail your car the right way. If you're going to bother, why not do it right - takes less time and looks better. YMMV.
get leather masters strong cleaner and protection cream. Wipe on and off with a good quality microfiber cloth. It goes on with a matte finish just what your looking for.
with consistent maintenance on your seats you won't need to anything as abrasive as a brush to agitate your seats.
+1. I have 4 year old, 37,000 mile Espresso natural leather, and it looks better than new. I use Leather Masters Soft cleaner most all the time followed by Protection Cream. Sometimes I will use LM Strong Cleaner on high traffic areas such as arm rests and center console. Also, yes to getting in and out of the seat without sliding across the bolsters - it's easy to do.
get leather masters strong cleaner and protection cream. Wipe on and off with a good quality microfiber cloth. It goes on with a matte finish just what your looking for.
with consistent maintenance on your seats you won't need to anything as abrasive as a brush to agitate your seats.
Originally Posted by porscherex
+1. I have 4 year old, 37,000 mile Espresso natural leather, and it looks better than new. I use Leather Masters Soft cleaner most all the time followed by Protection Cream. Sometimes I will use LM Strong Cleaner on high traffic areas such as arm rests and center console. Also, yes to getting in and out of the seat without sliding across the bolsters - it's easy to do.
Thank you both for the recommendation. Glad to hear from someone who has natural leather as well. Sounds like your's has held up well - I would love to see pictures.
I found these two kits on amazon. Do I need the "leather vital" as well or is the 2 piece kit sufficient?
The bottles seem tiny but I just watched watched an old video from "obsessed garage" with the 3-step Leather Master products and it appears Matt used very small portions.
Thank you both for the recommendation. Glad to hear from someone who has natural leather as well. Sounds like your's has held up well - I would love to see pictures.
I found these two kits on amazon. Do I need the "leather vital" as well or is the 2 piece kit sufficient?
The bottles seem tiny but I just watched watched an old video from "obsessed garage" with the 3-step Leather Master products and it appears Matt used very small portions.
FWIW, since I only do this x2 year, I also use a fourth step...Barrier which helps a little more with protecting the leather.
06-28-2017, 03:29 PM
