Car Care & Auto Detailing Blog

The condition of your car’s paint can significantly impact its appearance and resale value. Many people care about scratches and door dings on their beloved rides, and this may lead to the research and application of paint protection films. Ceramic coatings offer rugged, durable protection, resisting scratches and dirt, and can be used in conjunction with paint protection films. These coatings are hydrophobic, making them dirt-free for longer. Despite their durability, ceramic car coatings may not last forever.

What Is Ceramic Coating on a Car?

Ceramic coatings for car exterior surfaces have been a recent development that has significantly advanced the auto detailing business. Compared to conventional wax or paint sealants, these coatings offer a thicker, stronger layer of protection and last longer.

For even greater longevity, certain coatings even form a cross-link with the clear coat of the car. A "just waxed" appearance for years may be achieved with proper cleaning and paint correction, which can provide amazing depth and shine.

Types of Ceramic Coating

• Consumer ceramic coatings: Available online or in retail stores, these sprays are professionally applied and can last up to 24 months.
• Professional ceramic coatings: Combining SiO and TiO, these ceramic sprays are applied professionally and are easier to apply. They offer more protection against UV radiation, swirl marks, and other minor flaws.
• PTFE-based (or Teflon-based sprays): These are the lowest-strength ceramic coatings. They produce hydrophobic surfaces and offer non-stick and heat protection.
• SiO boost sprays: These sprays contain silicon dioxide or silica, and titanium dioxide. They strengthen and improve the hydrophobic qualities of car paint by using nanotechnology to penetrate microscopic crevices and cause invisible damage.

How Much Does it Cost to Ceramic Coat a Car?

Depending on your car and the ceramic coating you choose, applying ceramic coating will cost different amounts. Two factors that are involved are the size of your vehicle and how much area you want to cover. Certain automobiles require further preparation, which can range from a simple polish to extensive paint restoration. Inadequate preparation of your automobile may cause the coating to adhere incorrectly, potentially sealing in any existing scratches and other paint flaws.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Ceramic Coating

Ceramic coatings offer numerous benefits, including protection against UV radiation, dirt, and abrasive chemicals, and their hydrophobic nature, making them ideal for dealing with poisons like bug bites and bird droppings. They are smooth, reducing drag and enhancing fuel efficiency. Ceramic coatings are also a great investment for the longevity and cosmetic preservation of automobiles.

However, improper preparation can compromise their gloss and brilliance. Paint decontamination is a crucial process that removes airborne chemicals, adhesives, metal/iron particles, industrial fallout, road tar, dirt, bugs, water spots, brake dust, road salt, oil, and paint over spray. Post-cleaning, paint correction is necessary to remove flaws like holograms, water spots, scratches, swirl marks, and bird-dropping etching.

How Long Do Ceramic Coatings Last?

A ceramic coating’s duration can vary greatly and depends on various factors. How long your coating lasts depends on which ceramic coating is installed and how it is maintained. Depending on the value you are looking for and your budget, a ceramic coating can last between one to 10 years.

We know you take pride in your vehicle. That’s why we offer everything you need at CleanTools to properly wash, dry, and detail your car.

Tree sap can harm the windshield wipers and distort the paint on your automobile, making it just as bad for the paint job and windows as insect droppings or bird droppings. The sap adheres to the automobile paint more quickly in the presence of heat. For this reason, it's usually recommended to get rid of tree sap from cars as soon as you discover it. Regularly checking your automobile for tree sap and cleaning it as soon as you see it is an efficient method to stay on top of things.

Why Is Tree Sap So Sticky?

Tree sap carries energy to branches and leaves, keeping oaks, birches, and pines alive. It consists of two main substances: xylem and phloem. Xylem transports water, minerals, and hormones from the tree's roots to the top, while phloem is a sticky substance that provides nutrients during growth. It's crucial to clean tree sap off your car as it hardens over time, making it harder to remove without damaging the exterior. Car owners often find it unsightly and can cause damage to their paint job if not removed promptly. However, removing tree sap doesn't have to be difficult.

4 Steps to Remove Tree Sap From the Car

1. Wash Your Car

Getting sap on your car can be a great excuse to clean it. Use a sponge, soap, and water for a thorough cleaning, preventing scratches and damage to the exterior. This action alone may be enough to wash away the sap.

2. Soak the Sap

Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, can be used to remove sap from various surfaces, including shoes and clothing. However, it should not be applied near tires, as tire shine gel is a superior option due to its less abrasive nature and ability to improve tire gloss. To remove sap, dab a microfiber towel with a few drops of rubbing alcohol and wait at least thirty seconds.

3. Rub It In

Rub the area gently until the sap disappears, repeating step two a few times to let it soak up the rubbing alcohol. Use rubbing alcohol sparingly and elbow grease for better results than adding more. Before adding more alcohol, soak and clean with the existing amount. If the sap needs more goo, lightly scratch it with your fingertip, being cautious not to scratch the paint. This step should be repeated if the sap has solidified on the surface.

4. Protect With Wax

The paint of your automobile, which is now exposed to sap removal chemicals, may be protected from future scratches by car wax, which can also help remove small swirl marks. You'll get that power with the Glosser®, a non-woven, 3-layer microfiber cloth! With only one stroke, The Glosser® removes light surface impurities and waxes, thanks to its two exterior layers of cleansers and one inside layer of wax.

To remove sap from windshields or windows, use a razor blade to carefully scrape off caked sap. Avoid applying it to the rest of your car as it can damage the paint job. To prevent streaks and maintain glass appearance, use a glass cleaner instead of soap and water to wipe the windshields.

You take your car care seriously, and so do we. That’s why CleanTools offers everything you need to keep your vehicle washed, clean, and detailed. You’ll be ready when the sap strikes.

Convertible automobiles are renowned for their beauty, performance, and engineering. However, their delicate top material requires special care. Regular maintenance, including proper cleaning and protection, is critical for its longevity and performance. This page will offer five suggestions on how to care for the top of your convertible.

Discovering a scuff, scratch, or chip on your car's paint is frustrating. Learning the right approach on how to fix it can significantly lower the level of frustration, but you need to know the difference between a scuff and a scratch.

Despite your best efforts, scuffs or scratches are inevitable. Scuffs are right on the surface of the paint, while scratches have a deeper impact that can affect multiple layers of paint. Scuffs are easy to handle on your own, but deeper scratches are better left to the professionals.

6 Steps for Removing Paint Scuffs from Your Car

These straightforward steps will effectively remove scuff marks from your vehicle's exterior without causing any damage.

1. Examine the extent of the damage.
Gently scratch the damaged surface with your fingernail. If you can see the inner paint, a painting job, and scuff marks removal may be necessary. Deeper scratches require sanding, while lighter marks can be easily removed with an adhesive remover.

2. Wash the area.
Wash the affected area with a car wash product to remove dust and dirt from the surface.

3. Apply a light paint cleaner.
Use a light, less abrasive paint cleaner to remove any old wax and grime. This will allow you to remove any paint that might have been transferred during the scuffing action.

4. Apply cleaner.
Use a clean, microfiber cloth or pad to apply the cleaner to your car while protecting your hands. Avoid using dirty hands or a dirty cloth for cleaner application, as that will make the condition worse and more difficult to remove.

5. Use an adhesive remover.
As long as you check to make sure they are safe to use on paint and coated surfaces, you can use adhesive removers on scuff marks and stains. Turpentine or denatured alcohol are also effective adhesive removers.

6. Apply polishing compound.
If you want to remove scratches caused by sanding or other abrasive methods, apply a polishing compound while using a buffing pad. Then, clean the polished surface area with a clean cloth. This will restore the paint shine and protect the vehicle's finish for a longer run.

Using a Scratch Removal Product for Small Scratches

When it comes to removing scratches from a car, wash the affected area thoroughly and remove dirt and debris. Use a car washing soap and a sponge to work the soap in.

Purchase a scratch-removal product or kit, which usually comes with a buffing pad or a mechanical buffing tool. Apply a quarter-sized dollop of the product to the pad, work it into the scratched area, and wipe away the residue.

Repeat the process 2 to 3 times if needed, and make sure to avoid damaging the clear coat of your car.

Painting to Fix Deep Scratches

Fixing deep scratches on a car can be a little more involved process. First, you should thoroughly wash and dry the affected area to remove any dirt and debris. Sand the area using 2000-grit wet/dry sandpaper in the direction of the scratch. Rinse and dry the area, and do not get any dirt or debris between the sandpaper and the vehicle.

Spray a primer onto the sanded areas, applying a few coats of paint that match the color of your car. Wax the area to seal the paint, applying carnauba wax and buffing it with a buffer pad or microfiber cloth.

Check with your car's manufacturer to ensure the same shade of paint is used.

Remove Scuffs Using Toothpaste

To remove paint scuffs on your vehicle, wash your car thoroughly to get rid of debris. Apply a small amount of whitening toothpaste to a damp microfiber cloth. Rub hard in circular motions until the scuff is removed. For larger scuffs, you can use a buffing attachment for your drill.

We know you care about your car. Here at CleanTools, we have what you need to properly wash, dry, and detail your vehicle.

A car's paint job can be greatly impacted by surface scratches, which can make the paint look dull and possibly necessitate repainting. Scratch removal is more difficult than using a machine buff or simple wax, though. Many drivers are let down by newly noticeable scratches a few months after they think their paint is flawless because of recent detailing. While it is not possible to completely erase all scratches, it is possible to lessen their visual impact.

What are the Causes of Paintwork Scratches?

Improper Wash & Dry Techniques

One of the most common ways to scratch the paint on your vehicle is by not using the proper washing and drying techniques. This includes scratches caused by automatic car washes. They may be convenient, but there is no guarantee the company is using properly maintained brushes, which may cause debris to scratch your car.

Accidents and Car Park Dings

Accidents, such as strikes or parking lot accidents, can cause significant damage and scratches. The extent of the damage can vary greatly, making it difficult to determine if the damage can be remedied solely through detailing. If the damage cannot be repaired, it may be necessary to seek professional body repair services.

Intentional Damage

Intentional damage such as scratches on a car door, often referred to as "keying," occurs when someone intentionally vandalizes a vehicle, resulting in scrapes or scratches on the paintwork, with the severity of these scratches varying.

Road Debris and Stone Chips

Road debris, such as sticks and loose gravel, can damage car paint, posing daily dangers to automobile paint jobs. It's advisable to avoid damaging your new car while traveling across the country. Instead, consider using a service to transfer your freshly painted car, ensuring its paint job remains intact.

What Are the Different Layers on a Car's Paintwork?

Primers

The purpose of applying a primer to bare metal panels is to even out the surface and prepare it for the next layer of paint.

Color Coat or Base Coat

A color coat, or base coat, is a basic semi-gloss paint finish. It may have a costly flake or pearlescence found on luxury car models.

Clear Coat

The clear coat is a top layer of paint applied over a colored base coat. It enhances the paint's durability, gloss, and UV resistance.

Coating Layer or Waxing

Any form of coating or wax that you have used to protect the paint of your car from the elements.

Types of Scratches on a Car and How To Fix

Clear Coat Scratch

How To Identify a Clear Coat Scratch

Scratches on the clear coat surface, caused by everyday wear and tear like dusting and washing, appear as swirls, whirls, straight lines, and sometimes white lines.

How To Fix Clear Coat Scratches

Gentle washing and waxing are effective in repairing scratches on cars. Buffing the wax and clearing dirt with a soft cloth can help remove the scratches from clear coat damage.

Base Coat or Color Coat Scratch

How To Identify a Base Coat or Color Coat Scratch

Paint scratches on the surface of an automobile are very annoying and often result from contact with hard objects, abrasive surfaces, or keys.

How To Fix Base Coat or Color Coat Scratches

Paint scratches must be repaired by professionals. Professionals in car painting wash, clear away debris, and sand with a particular grit. The car is given a clear coat to make sure it looks brand new after one to two days of drying.

Primer Coat Scratch or Damage

How To Identify a Primer Coat Scratch or Damage

Accidents and severe abrasions can leave primer scratches that reveal metal layers, making them prone to rust. Since replacing the part or panel is the sole way to remove rust, prompt care is essential.

How To Fix Primer Coat Scratches or Damages

A primer scratch is a process best left for the professionals. The extent and damaged region of the car determine how long it takes.

Steps

1. Sandpaper the bigger area.
2. Repair any dents.
3. Apply a primer and allow it to dry.
4. Paint, and then apply a clear coat to cure a priming scratch.

Keep Your Car Looking Pristine

We know how you love to take care of your car—because you love it. That’s why CleanTools loves taking care of you with our wide array of detailing tools and products. So go ahead and fix up those surface scratches, or clean and detail your vehicle with the help of CleanTools.

No one likes to see the clear coat on their car peel or chip, but rest assured Cleantools is here to help. Join us as we go over why your car's clear coat is peeling and tips on how to prevent it from happening. 

What Causes Clear Coat Peeling?

Multiple factors cause clear coat peeling on a car, many of which are due to poor maintenance, exposure to environmental elements, and harsh cleaning products. 

Snow & Ice

If you live in a climate where there is a lot of snow, you may be at a higher risk of car paint peeling since extended exposure to extreme cold causes paint to become brittle. Not only that, snow and ice alone can scratch the clear coat on your car, sometimes even damaging the actual paint. When roads are icy, salt and gravel are often laid so that there is traction, but are often kicked up, causing coat damage and sometimes rust underneath the car. 

UV Rays

On the contrary to snow and ice, strong UV rays from the sun can also cause clear coat damage. Unlike snow and ice, UV rays don’t have to physically touch your car to cause “peeling”—it does it through oxidation. 

What’s the Difference Between Oxidation and Peeling?

It’s important to distinguish between oxidation and peeling since they require different forms of treatment and preventative measures. When oxidation occurs, paint loses its shine and becomes dull due to sun exposure and harsh UV rays. Clear coat peeling involves the actual lifting or flaking of the clear coat layer, leaving the underlying paint exposed. 

Harsh Cleaning Products

Another common cause for clear coat peeling on your car is the use of harsh chemicals and household cleaners. If you want to wash your car on your own and save the time, hassle, and money on professional car washing, make sure you use the appropriate cleaning products. Many times dish soaps or other household cleaners have high pH levels and are alkaline-rich, making a clear coat deteriorate at a much quicker rate. Use soaps that are specially formulated for the use of cars, and make sure you’re diluting your solution as directed. 

4 Easy Tips To Prevent Clear Coat Peeling

Avoid Automatic Car Washes

If you’re serious about keeping your clear coat scratch and peel-free, then you must avoid automatic or drive-through car washes. Even though they offer convenience and seem to get the job done well enough, nylon brushes and high-pressure jets often cause scratches, swirl marks, and paint peeling. There are eco-car washers that clean cars with safe methods like steam cleaning, which gives superior cleaning without the risk of clear coat peeling. 

Use Quality Car Cleaning Products

When you’re cleaning your car, harsh cleaning products in your cupboards or under your sink won’t cut it. You’ll need cleaning products specially designed for cars, like the super soft towels from CleanTools. Choosing products made for your car makes a huge difference in how well your car's clear coat holds up.

Regularly Wash and Wax Your Car

You may wash your car often, but are you getting it waxed each time, too? If not, it’s always best to wax your car after you wash it to prevent clear coat peeling since it creates a protective barrier between the outside elements such as bugs, acid rain, and extreme weather conditions. We also recommend using a wax that has UV protection to further protect the appearance of your car. 

Use Paint Protections

Similar to wax, there are paint protection films that offer additional protection to your car. Paint protection films act the same way a screen protector does on your phone; they act as a barrier from rocks, ice, and other extreme weather conditions. This type of job should be left up to professionals to ensure that the paint protection film is applied correctly. 

How To Fix Car Clear Coat Peeling?

Get the car surface super clean with special car cleaning solutions. Make sure you dry and polish the car thoroughly with the best towels for cars. 

After cleaning the car, determine what’s causing the paint to chip or peel—it could be due to extreme weather events, the sun’s UV rays, and harsh cleaning chemicals.

Once you understand why the clear coat is peeling, remove it entirely. This can be done with scouring pads, but you can also take your car to a professional who will have better tools and practices. 

You can replace your car's damaged clear coat by spraying a new one on. They sell clear coat cans at stores, but you can also take your car to professionals for industry-grade clear coat application. 

The main contributors to car paint cracking or peeling are extreme weather conditions, the sun’s UV rays, and bad cleaning practices. By understanding the causes of clear coat peeling and having the right resources, you can maintain the beauty and integrity of your car's paint for years to come. At CleanTools, we’re here to help you address any signs of peeling and provide the proper tools to preserve your vehicle's appearance and value.

Car professionals and enthusiasts know that a pressure-washer car wash beats out any other standard car cleaning. Drive-through car washes accumulate a heavy amount of dirt, grime, and other contaminants on their bristles which then transfer onto your car. These washes do not properly clean your car and pose risks of damaging the body, coat, and tires. When you wash your car with a pressure washer, you greatly reduce your chances of spending time, energy, and money on potential car repairs. 

If you’re wondering how to use a pressure washer for car detailing, rest assured because CleanTools has all the information you need and the products to help make it happen. 

Pressure Washing VS Power Washing

Before continuing on power washer best practices, it is a common misconception that power washing and pressure washing are the same thing. These are two different car washing methods. A power washer or jet-spray car wash uses heated water, and a pressure washer uses cold water. 

Snow Foaming Your Car 

One of the most essential first steps in the car washing process is snow-foaming your car. Snow foam is a pre-wash agent that is typically used with a specialized sprayer called a foam cannon that works by connecting to a pressure washer. Basically, you spray a foamed detergent on the car to remove the first layer of dirt and grime before washing and scrubbing. This is a huge step in car washing because it significantly reduces the risk of swirl marks or scratches on the clear coat of a vehicle. 

Follow these basic steps on how to use a pressure washer foam cannon:

1. Rinse the car.
2. Spray the snow foam onto the car using a foam cannon attached to a pressure washer.
3. Let the foam sit on the car for a couple of minutes or however long is recommended to break down the dirt and grime. 
4. Rinse down the car with water.
5. Now you can wash and scrub the car using a car shampoo and a Premium Wash Mitt.

Tip: The best pressure washer for a foam cannon is one that produces at least 1.5 GPM (gallons per minute) and 1100 PSI (pounds per square inch).

Car-Safe Scrubbing Methods

The best way to safely scrub the exterior of your car is with a sponge or wash mitt and a power washer soap solution. CleanTools offers a unique, non-abrasive wool blend wash mitt that gently removes dirt and soil. When you’re scrubbing your car in the washing process, make sure you avoid scrubbing in a circular motion to prevent swirls. It's best practice to rinse the wash mitt in a bucket of clean water after each use to clean off any dirt and grime left on it. 

Rinse Your Car With Care

Rinsing your car in the car washing setup is one of the most important and frequent steps. To properly do this, you will need a spot-free rinse for your pressure washer. Rinsing will save you time when washing and help prevent any swirls or scratches when scrubbing. If you’re working in hot weather, make sure you rinse the car even more frequently to avoid water spots. Once you’re done rinsing, dry the car with a super absorbent, scratch-free towel. 

Pressure Wash Your Car With CleanTools

Washing your car with a pressure washer is one of the most effective ways to clean your car to avoid paint and coat damage. It’s easy to use and can reach under the car to clean all the nooks and crannies that regular car washes can’t. You don’t have to be a car lover to want your car to look its best and avoid future costly repairs. Give your car an outstanding cleaning using a pressure washer with top-of-the-line products by CleanTools. 

Have you ever gotten into your car and noticed a new scratch appear? You don’t know how it got there and tried to avoid it from happening at every turn. Maintaining your vehicle exterior is a challenge for everyone and you shouldn’t feel alone in what to do.

If you’re unsure as to how to remove scuff marks from your car or want to know ways to prevent it from happening, here’s what you need to know.   

Causes of Scratches and Paintwork Damage

Unfortunately, a nick in the paint can happen at any point for many reasons, such as: 

Car washes are very convenient in being located all around to quickly wash and dry your car, but can cause long-term damage. The large rollers are not soft or absorbent—they collect dirt in the bristles, which can leave scratches and swirls on your car. 

Sometimes nature can be unruly and if you’re not careful, a stray branch could be the reason for a scratch on top or the side of your car. 

This one might be more obvious, but hitting a curb or parking barrier could cause a chip, scratch, or even dent in your car. 

Hail is a notorious offender in scratching your vehicle. You should also be cautious about removing snow from your car, as the ice scrapers can scratch your paint—we recommend using a de-icer instead. 

Even if all precautions are taken, there is still the possibility of a random rock flying from the road that cracks your windshield or grazes the paint. 

Water contains trace amounts of minerals like calcium, iron, salt, and other pollutants. When water evaporates from your vehicle’s surface, these contaminants are left behind to bake into the surface. The longer they sit, the more they bond and eat away at the clear coat. 

Which Products and Compounds Can Help To Remove Scratches?

Many options in products and compounds help to remove scratches and scraps from your vehicle, but finding the right one can be difficult. Remember, though, that the best scratch remover is to prevent them from happening in the first place—you can do that with the best car cleaning products from CleanTools.  

Car Scratch Remover Kit

Kits to remove or repair scratches is the go-to method for most people. They contain everything you need, including scratch removal polish and paste, touch-up paint, and buffers. 

Car Scratch Remover Pen

This type of scratch remover is a pen filled with a clear coat of resin which is the same material as the topcoat of a vehicle paint job. When you apply the pen, the resin fills in the gap of the scratch and removes it. 

Deep Car Scratch Remover

If the scratch on your car is too deep, particularly down to the bare metal, then you may need to take it in and have someone professionally remove it. 

Car Scratch Remover Spray

Sprays that promise to remove scratches will only work if they’re shallow, and aren't as effective when it comes to buffing and getting out deep scratches. 

CleanTools Buffing Ball

These Buffing Balls are great for removing oxidation and light scratches from headlights, taillights, and plastic windshields. They are also easy to use with a hex-shaped metal shaft that attaches to any electric or air drill. 

Interior Scratch Remover Car

If you have more scratches inside your car than outside, make sure you get the right scratch-removal products since most cars' interior is made of plastic. 

Black Car Wax

If you have a black or dark-colored car, you can use black car wax for scratches. Unlike regular wax that fills in the scratch, black wax doesn’t leave any white residue. 

How Does a Scratch Remover Compound Work?

A scratch remover compound has very fine abrasives in it to smooth the scratch on the car and blend the coat to give it a smooth-looking finish. These “abrasives” are micro and are similar to what’s found in toothpaste. 

Ways to Prevent Your Car from Swirls and Light Scratches

Preventing your car from scrapes and swirls is key to keeping your car looking sleek and brand-new. To do this, keep these tips in mind:

Washing Your Car Properly

With products like  Wash Mitt, you can feel confident about washing off dirt and grime with no risk of scratching your vehicle from particles stuck in the Wash Mitt, unlike other rags or wash mitts. After you wash your car, make sure it gets the best dry possible with The Absorber, our super-absorbent and soft drying tool. 

Polishing Your Car

Polishing your car greatly benefits in reducing and removing scratches. Not only that, polishing your car: 

• Decontaminates the paintwork that cleaners alone can't remove.
• Helps with paint correction and restores fading paint. 
• Enhances gloss, shine, and color rejuvenation. 

Prevent and Remove Scratches From Your Car With CleanTools

Clear coat is your car’s first line of defense against damage. It protects your color coat from wear and tear, and it protects the metal body of your car from being exposed and vulnerable to rust and corrosion. If you don’t maintain your protective layer of clear coat, damage will only spread and require more intensive repairs.

If your clear coat has sustained damage, here’s everything you need to know about repairing it.

What Causes Damage to Clear Coat?

• Physical abrasions: Dings and scratches can take out chips of clear coat—like when a rock flies up from the road and hits your car.

• UV radiation: The sun causes slow, cumulative damage to clear coat over years by heating up layers of paint and causing them to separate.

• Exposure to chemicals: Bugs, tree sap, gasoline, and other substances can break down your clear coat.
• Improper application: Poor application of clear coat will cause it to chip and peel faster than it should.

Items You Need for Clear Coat Repair

• Car wash supplies: soap, wash mitt, and absorbent towels
• Sandpaper or automotive Scotch-Brite
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Automotive clear coat spray paint
• Masking tape
• Buffer & wax

How To Repair Clear Coat on a Car

1. Prep Area

If you haven’t washed the car in a while, you should do so. If it’s fairly clean, just wash the panel you’ll be working on and adjacent areas.

Use masking tape to cover the edges of any adjacent panels that won’t be resprayed with clear coat. Make sure the tape goes inside the panel gap, but don’t let it contact the panel you’re going to repair—otherwise, you may accidentally peel your new clear coat when you remove the tape.

1. Remove Peeling or Damaged Clear Coat

Use fine automotive Scotch-Brite to rub the most damaged areas first. Use light to medium pressure and try to knock off all the peeling flakes. If the color coat is exposed, use very light pressure and focus on the borders.

You can also use fine sandpaper. Start with 1500 grit and go up or down, depending on the hardness of the specific clear coat.

Don’t scrape with a razor blade or anything hard enough to scratch through the clear coat because you can create deep scratches that will require more repair.

1. Create Blend Zones

After removing all peeling clear coat and scuffing the repair area, create a blend zone extending about 3-4 inches in every direction. Use the same Scotch-Brite or 2000-grit wet sandpaper and very light pressure to scuff the blend zone so that the new clear coat has a strong foundation to adhere to. Try to make the transition gradual and tapered toward to old clear coat so you have an easier time blending.

1. Clean Area

Rinse the area with water and then wipe with isopropyl alcohol to make sure every bit of dust and debris is removed. Wait until the surface is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

1. Mask the Area

Use masking sheets, plastic foil, old newspapers, or paper towels to cover any adjacent panels you don’t want to spray over.

For the outer edges of the work area, tape a piece of paper so that it covers the work area and ends somewhere in the blend zone, leaving some of the scuffed area on the outside. Then, fold the paper back so you’re left with a soft edge at the border of the work area. This way, it will be easier to blend in the new and old clear coats when you’re done respraying.

1. Apply Clear Coat

Read the manufacturer’s instructions before applying an automotive clear coat. There should be information about:

• How to mix in the hardener
• How many coats you need to apply
• What flash time to wait before applying the next coat
• How far to keep the spray nozzle from the surface
• How fast to move the can

It’s important to follow the instructions on your specific clear coat, but here are some general instructions to follow.

Shake the can thoroughly for a few minutes, release the hardener, and shake again. Put an appropriate mask or respirator on, and then spray for a couple of seconds to make sure the nozzle works well.

Hold the nozzle about 8 inches from the work area and add a light to medium coat, overlapping your strokes by 30-40%. Make sure you’re going back and forth and release the button before you finish your stroke. Keep your hand moving at all times.

Slow movement is always better than more product. Go lighter rather than heavier to avoid running and dripping.

Spray two to three coats and give them 10 minutes of flash time in between. When you’re done, leave the car overnight and inspect your results the next morning.

1. Blend & Polish

After the clear coat has hardened, remove the masking tape, and be careful not to strip away the new clear coat you just applied.

On the borders of the work area, there will be an obvious line separating the fresh clear coat from the rest of the panel. Use 2000-grit wet sandpaper with light pressure, and be sure to keep the area wet. You can go up to 3000 grit and expand the blend zone slightly outward.

Now, polish the transition. Use a rotary polisher on a low-speed setting, with a medium cut pad and compound. Polish in a direction away from the new clear coat so you don’t peel it back. Hold the machine at an angle so the contact is on the narrow edge of the pad. Using no pressure, make individual passes, lifting and starting over from the repair area. Check your results every few minutes and stop when the transition is barely noticeable up close.

Choose CleanTools for All Your Automotive Repair

It’s normal for your car to undergo wear and tear over time. But at a certain point, the wear and tear distracts you from its best features. The good news is a simple cut and buff job will restore your car’s former glory in just one day’s work. If you’re wondering what cut and buff is, we’re here to help. A cut and buff kit will help you get rid of scratched, uneven surfaces with an at-home cut and buff job. Plus, you’ll save time and money by doing it yourself.

A Guide on How to Cut and Buff Car Paint

If you’ve never done a cut and buff job on your car, you’re probably wondering how it works. Here’s a step-by-step guide that walks you through how to cut and buff a clear coat so you get the best results.

1. Prep Your Paint Finish

Give the paint finish a good clean before doing any cutting or buffing. This step will remove dirt, stains, and other debris that would bind to the paint, leaving behind pesky scratches and swirls. If your car has any hard-to-clean spots, you can apply an iron remover to dissolve them, leaving you with a smooth finish.

2. Test Spots

An easy way to determine what type of polish and finishing pad you need is to apply a few test spots of polish to your car. Start with a gentle polish and light finishing pad to avoid removing too much of the clear coat. See how the clear coat reacts, then go from there. If the gentle polish doesn’t get the job done, try a slightly stronger one and compare the results.

3. Cut the Paint With a Cutting Compound

A cutting compound repairs the clear coat on a car by removing scratches and oxidation, exposing the fresh paint layer beneath it. You can apply the compound manually with a pad or by using a polishing machine equipped with a wool pad. Removing the top layer of the clear coat prepares the surface for polishing.

4. Polish in Sections From the Hood Down

Once you reach the polishing stage, start with the roof and work your way down. That way, you can see what areas you’ve already covered and what areas are left. If you opt for a power polisher, move it continuously to eliminate lines and swirls most effectively. If you’re a little more old school and prefer to polish by hand, apply a microfiber towel in circular motions to achieve a smooth finish.

5. Protect the Restored Paint With a Wax Coat

Finally, seal the fresh polish with a layer of wax to protect the new paint from damage and give your car that fresh-off-the-lot feel.

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We’ve helped customers like you care for their cars the right way since 1980. If you want your car to look as good as new again, we have the products you need to make it happen. From a buffing ball to microfiber detailing cloths, you can find it all at CleanTools. Browse our collection today to find the products you need.

Your car’s wash job isn’t complete without paying some attention to the chrome parts. After all, the chrome glinting in the sun is what catches your eye when you first see a car. The chrome on your rims, door handles, window trim, and other parts needs special maintenance with products designed for it.

The chrome on most modern cars is actually plastic coated with chrome, and you need to be aware of this to avoid damaging it. You don’t want to overdo the polishing or buffing because this will wear away the chrome finish.

Here’s how to polish both plastic and genuine chrome. 

Steps to Polish Chrome & Other Metals

For plastic chrome, you’ll need a car chrome cleaner and mild chrome polish. For genuine chrome, you’ll need a chrome cleaner, a higher-grade chrome polish, and a rotary polisher. For both types, you’ll need a wheel brush and an absorbent cloth.

1) Get Rid of Rust

Before you start the cleaning and polishing process, you need to remove any rust from the metal parts of your car. You can use a ball of foil dipped in either water or vinegar to rub away the rust. If this doesn’t work, you can use a piece of steel wool.

2) Choose the Right Metal Polish

Next, select a professional polishing product designed for the metals on your car. There are all-in-one products that can polish chrome, aluminum, nickel, gold, silver, and stainless steel.

The purpose of metal polish isn’t only to make your chrome shine—it also leaves a protective layer that helps prevent scratches and keeps the chrome clean for longer.

3) Clean the Chrome & Metal

Before polishing, clean all dirt and debris from your car’s chrome trim. Using a polishing compound while there is still dirt on the chrome can damage the finish. 

Start by hosing down the chrome to get rid of any mud or other gunk. 

For the trim on your wheels, apply a chrome cleaner for cars and use a wheel brush to work it in and remove any hard-to-reach dirt. 

As you clean your chrome with the chrome cleaner, work in small sections, and don’t let the cleaner dry on the surface. If you encounter stubborn stains, use some steel wool.

When you’re finished, thoroughly rinse off the chrome cleaner. Then dry the chrome using a clean, absorbent cloth. Not forgetting these two steps will guarantee that no cleaner stains or water spots are left behind.

4) Polish the Chrome & Metal

Use the chrome polish that you picked for your car. Remember, a higher-grade polish and a rotary polisher may be needed to shine genuine chrome. Apply the polish and slowly increase the speed of the polisher until the polish is no longer visible.

For plastic chrome, you can work in a milder polish by hand. Simply apply it and use circular motions to work it in. You can use a soft cloth to do this—you don’t want to use abrasive pads, which can damage the chrome.

Lastly, buff all the areas you polished to seal in the wax from the polishing compound. This wax layer will reduce water staining and oxidation, and it reduces the need for cleaning and polishing.

Polish Chrome Like a Pro With CleanTools

Now that you know the best way to clean and polish the chrome on your car, all you need are the right tools. A soft cloth like The Absorber, a buffing ball, and a chrome polish specially designed for your car will make polishing chrome a breeze.

You know that washing, polishing, and waxing your car is key to keeping it looking brand new, but so is maintaining your car’s plastic trim. 

Plastic trim can become damaged, faded, and oxidized, making your car look older. When it’s time for your car care routine, be sure to give your plastic trim some attention.

All you need for a sparkly clean car from top to bottom is a car plastic polish, a foam pad, a rotary polisher, and a few soft cloths.

Here’s how to polish plastic trim.

Steps to Polish Plastic Car Trim

Wash Your Car

Just like when you’re polishing and waxing the rest of your car, you should start by washing your trim for the best results. A quick wash with mild liquid soap and water will work.

1) Tape Around the Trim

Next, use masking tape to cover all areas surrounding the trim, including glass, paint, metal, and any other surfaces. You don’t want your plastic polishing compound or rotary polisher to touch anything other than the trim.

Place the tape as close to the edge of the trim as possible. Make sure it’s thick enough to provide enough space between the trim and the surface you are protecting, in case the rotary polisher pad slips.

2) Install the Pad

You should use a small foam pad attachment that is two or three inches in diameter to polish your trim since trim is typically narrow.

Using a small pad will make the polisher easier to handle and less likely to disturb the masking tape.

3) Prepare the Polisher

Once you’ve attached the foam pad to your rotary polisher, you can apply the polishing compound to the pad. The best plastic polish is one with a light grit that will not damage the trim or leave a chalky finish.

Protect your hands with gloves, and apply a thin layer of the polish onto the foam pad—you don’t need a lot of product.

4) Apply the Polishing Compound

Using a low to medium speed, apply the plastic polishing compound by placing the foam pad on the plastic trim while the rotary polisher is spinning.

You may need to tilt the pad so it only touches the trim and not the other areas of your car’s exterior. 

Use light pressure to slowly cover the entire surface of the trim with the compound. Repeat the application twice.

5) Buff the Polish

Use a soft cloth to remove any excess polishing compound from the trim. If you still see scratches or marks, use the rotary polisher to apply more compound.

Once you’ve checked again and you’re happy with how the trim looks, it’s time to buff off the polish. Run a clean foam pad across the trim a few times to do this, using the same technique you used to apply it.

6) Remove the Tape and Wipe

Remove the masking tape and use another clean, soft cloth to wipe down the trim and the surrounding area. This will remove any remaining polishing compound, tape residue, and dust or dirt.

7) Apply a Plastic Restorer

To really make your trim shine and increase the time between cleanings, apply a plastic restorer or “trim restorer.” Plastic restorer also forms a protective layer from UV rays to prevent damage.

FAQ

What Is Plastic Polish?

Plastic polish is a substance that cleans and removes scratches from plastic and similar surfaces, like acrylic. Plastic polish can also be called polishing compound or polishing paste.

Plastic polish is generally gentler and has a lighter grit than polishing compounds intended to smooth out a car’s paint job.

How Does Plastic Polish Work?

The lightest grit plastic polish gently cleans plastic and leaves a nice sheen. A heavier grit plastic polish removes scratches, haziness, and abrasions. The heaviest grit plastic polish, usually in the form of a paste, removes more severe scratches and abrasions.

How Do I Remove Buffing Compound From Plastic?

The best way to avoid residue from plastic polish is to use a light grit polish intended for plastic that won’t leave a chalky finish.

Once you’re done polishing, you should immediately wipe off any excess compound with a clean, soft cloth. If you notice any dried compound residue later, you should first try to remove it with mild soap and water. You can also use a toothbrush or a magic eraser. Wipe the plastic clean with a clean cloth.

If you get paint buffing compound on plastic trim, you can follow these same methods to remove it.

What Are Rubbing Compounds vs. Buffing Compounds For Plastic Polishing?

Rubbing compound has a stronger grit to correct uneven surfaces from scratches. Buffing compound is less abrasive and commonly used to remove superficial streaks left by polishing compound.

When you’re caring for plastic trim, be sure to use products that are designed for plastic surfaces.

Make Your Car Shine With CleanTools

When you have the right tools for the job, car maintenance is a breeze. Whether you’re washing, buffing, or waxing, you always need a soft, high-quality cloth like The Absorber. When you’re polishing, make sure you have the right product for the surface you’re working on and your desired results, and then bust out a buffing ball for that shiny finish.