Googling “best car wash mitt” on Reddit? Everyone’s been through that at some point. But we’re here to give some pointers so you don’t have to dig through multiple threads for the best possible answer.
Specialising in car detailing service, Detail Artist will be covering a series of articles focusing on decontamination, and in this post, we focus on car wash mitts.
The Value of Expert Knowledge
Why is choosing the right car wash mitt so important? Many car owners don’t realise that using the wrong tool (like a regular sponge) can damage their car paint. A poor choice can lead to swirl marks and scratches. Leading to a dull finish over time. The right wash mitt helps prevent these issues by effectively lifting dirt and grime without harming the paintwork.
Therefore, Detail Artist uses and highly recommends microfibre car wash mitts, and having several spares handy. However, selecting the right wash mitt isn’t always straightforward. As different types serve different purposes. There are several types of wash mitts available on the market today. Ranging from microfibre, microfibre noodles and wool.
A good wash mitt is vital when it comes to washing a car properly using the 2-bucket wash method. In combination with the buckets, the mitt greatly reduces fine scratches and swirl marks on your paint. In this article Detail Artist, we will guide you through the wash mitt.
Sponges = Swirl City
Sponges come to the majority of people’s minds whenever a car wash is mentioned. Whether this is due to bikini washes or the person washing their car on the weekend, often shown in the media.
Sponges when examined, are actually incredibly bad for washing your car. Contrary to regular belief, the paintwork on your car is very soft and not that durable towards scratching. A sponge by nature does two things when washing your car:
- Holds a large amount of liquid – While it seems beneficial, it fails to trap dirt properly.
- Acts abrasively – Dirt and debris get trapped between the sponge and the paint, grinding them on the surface as you move your mitt around. Physically putting in scratches into the paintwork.
This is why car detailing services often go with microfibre mitts as the safer option. The fundamental difference is the mitt’s ability to encapsulate and pick up dirt and debris rather than pushing it around. This allows the grit and dirt to be dispensed safely into a 2 bucket and grit guard system.
Microfibre Car Wash Mitt
This is one of the most popular options. It’s ideal for routine washes and paint decontamination. All done before waxing or correction treatments. Its soft fibres are effective at picking up dirt while being gentle on most car surfaces.
Key Features:
- Highly absorbent, allowing for thorough cleaning.
- Safe for most paint types, although it may cause minor micro-marring on delicate finishes.
- Works best with the 2-bucket method to prevent dirt buildup.
Tip: Here’s how to use a car wash mitt properly: rinse your microfibre car wash mitt frequently during use to ensure dirt is fully removed between passes.
Wool/Sheep Skin Wash Mitt
A wool/sheep skin wash mitt is our favourite for maintenance washes and detailed work. It’s incredibly soft, plush, and gentle on delicate paint finishes. The wool fibres trap dirt deep within, reducing the risk of scratches during washing.
Advantages:
- Excellent for cars with delicate or high-end paint finishes.
- Provides an ultra-soft touch for a swirl-free wash.
- Ideal for maintenance washes after a professional car detailing service.
However, wool mitts require more maintenance. They also don’t last as long as their microfibre counterparts. And they’re not recommended for heavily soiled vehicles due to their delicate nature.
Noodle Microfibre Wash Mitt
A noodle microfibre wash mitt combines the softness of wool with the durability of microfibre. It offers longer fibres that help trap dirt effectively. Making it perfect for both maintenance and prep washes.
Why Choose Noodle Microfibre Wash Mitts?
- Versatile for all car types and detailing needs.
- Durable and easy to maintain.
- Provides better dirt-trapping ability than standard microfibre mitts.
How to Choose the Best Car Wash Mitt
There are so many choices available. So it’s important to consider several factors before choosing the best car wash mitt for your car:
- Your Car’s Paint Type: Softer paints require gentler mitts. Choose wool.
- Frequency of Use: Regular washes might call for a more durable microfibre option.
- Dirt Levels: If your car gets very dirty often, a noodle microfibre mitt offers better cleaning power.
Caring for Your Car Wash Mitt
To get the most out of your best car wash mitt, proper care is essential. Follow these tips:
- Rinse thoroughly after each use. This removes trapped dirt and debris.
- Hand wash or use a gentle machine cycle. Add a mild detergent to maintain softness.
- Air dry your mitt. This prevents mildew and maintains its shape.
Taking care of your wash mitt ensures consistent performance and a longer lifespan.
What Do Professionals Use?
Professional car detailing services often use a combination of all three types of wash mitts. Doing so helps them cater to different detailing jobs. Unsure which to choose? A noodle microfibre car wash mitt is a great all-purpose option. Meanwhile, a wool/sheepskin mitt is perfect for cars that have already undergone a professional car detailing service.
We hope this article helped you choose the right wash mitt for your car. Just remember not to go with regular sponges. Got any questions on car detailing? Feel free to get in touch with us.
