How to Use a Clay Bar

Source: wikiHow

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In this Article:Article SummaryPrepping Your Car and the Clay“Claying” the First Car SectionContinuing the Job Section-by-SectionCommunity Q&A13 References

Auto detailing clay is used to remove dust, dirt, industrial fallout, acid rain, and other contaminants from your car’s exterior surfaces.

Known as “claying,” the process removes particles that stick to the clay when it is rubbed along the car’s surface. “Claying” is most commonly used on paint, but also works on glass, fiberglass, and metal. When done properly, “claying” is non-abrasive and should not damage your car.

1. 1 Wash and dry your car by hand before “claying” it. Remove as much of the dirt, grime, and other contaminants from the surface as possible. This will make “claying” go much more quickly.^[1]
   • Don’t use an automatic car wash, because they tend to leave behind a lot of soap residue and other contaminants. In fact, most auto detailers will likely tell you to never use automatic car washes.
2. 2 Buy a fine grade clay bar with its matching lubricating spray. Clay bars come in 2 main categories—“fine” and “medium”—although some brands have additional sub-categories (e.g., “ultra fine”). Fine grade bars should remove most surface contaminants and any wax, but are less likely to mar the paint finish than medium grade bars.^[2]
   • In the hands of an experienced auto detailer, medium grade bars usually won’t result in any marring, and can remove a great deal of contamination from a car that’s gone years without a “claying.
     ” However, especially if you’re a novice “clayer,” a fine grade bar is the safer bet.
   • If the clay bar kit doesn’t come with a bottle of lubricating spray, buy a bottle that is the same brand as the bar. They’ll be in the same section of the auto supply store.
3. 3 Buy a 2 oz (57 g) bar for 1 car, or cut a larger bar. Clay bars usually come in sizes ranging from 2–8 oz (57–227 g). The 2 oz (57 g) size is more than enough for 1 car, and is a very manageable piece of clay to work…

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