What cleaning supplies to get?

[lazerborg]

Hey guys,
Ok, so I'm anticipating taking delivery of my car in the next week or so, and as this is the first "higher-end" car I've had, I need some advice as far as what cleaning supplies to get, because I'm pretty clueless at the moment. Here's what I think I'll need, any specific recommendations would be great:
Microfiber mits/clothes (what brand/where)
Soap
Wax (?)
Wheel Cleaner
Leather cleaner (?)
Leather conditioner
and anything else you think I need...
Thanks for the help!

[shawshank772]

I know its a pain but search search and search some more..The only way to really find out what products to use and how to use them is read. I have spent countless hours reading about it..Pop on over to e90post.com. they usually have more threads on the topics. As well as a few good stickies. You will find that the products are only about 25 percent of the battle. The rest is how you use/apply them to the car. If you have flawed technique then the products dont mean a thing. There is also a site called Autopia.org (i think thats it). Its a site dedicated to taking care of your car. I hope some of this helps..probably not though lol

[Kyoshi71]

Originally Posted by shawshank772

You will find that the products are only about 25 percent of the battle. The rest is how you use/apply them to the car. If you have flawed technique then the products dont mean a thing.

SO TRUE!!!

[///Mperative]

Originally Posted by shawshank772

You will find that the products are only about 25 percent of the battle. The rest is how you use/apply them to the car. If you have flawed technique then the products dont mean a thing. There is also a site called Autopia.org (i think thats it). Its a site dedicated to taking care of your car.

+1. Proper technique and tools are the key. Chemicals are important, but they're not the most important thing as long as you don't buy crappy or harsh chems.

I will give you the benefit of my experience researching this very matter. I use the following items for a full proper wash:

Chemicals:
CG Citrus Wash & Gloss
CG Extreme VRP Tire Dressing
CG Extreme Slick Synthetic Quick Detailer
P21S Total Auto Wash (for tough grime & engine bay)
P21S Wheel Cleaner Gel (awesome stuff)
Adam's Glass Cleaner
Adam's Glass Sealant
Sonax Dashboard Cleaner
Leather Master Kit
OR
Leatherique Rejuvenator Oil
Leatherique Pristine Clean

Tools:
Detailing Bucket w/ Grit Guard (x2)
Gilmour Foammaster II - Foam Wash Gun
Microfiber Bone Wash Sponge
Daytona Speed Master Wheel Brush
Swissvax Wheel Brush (for lugs)
Tire Dressing Applicators
Extra Sprayers
Microfiber Applicator Pad (for glass sealant)
Uber Blue Clay Bar (for glass)

Towels:
Monster Microfiber Towels (x6) for paint ONLY
Uber Black Microfiber Towels (x4) for wheels ONLY
Uber Microfiber Glass Towels (x4)
Uber Jumbo Waffle Weave Drying Towel

Techniques:
Ignore the chemicals they use in the videos below. They're trying to get you to buy Pinnacle products, which aren't all that great.
How To Wash a Car Properly
How To Clean Wheels & Tires
How To Dry a Car Properly

I don't usually wax. I have the car detailed and sealed with Menzerna Power Lock (or something similar) a few times a year. You can wax if you want, but it doesn't last very long (a month max). There are plenty of good waxes out there and you don't have to spend a ton of $ to get a god one.

[lazerborg]

Thanks for all the help guys, that'll definitely get me off to a good start.

[Jean-Claude]

If you're in Washington, you should go to Metropolitan Detail. Ask for John. He sells a lot of high line professional grade supplies and can help you find what you need. Let him know I referred you.

[lazerborg]

I've looked at their website and am considering using them to put ventureshield on my car...would you recommend them for that as far as their pricing?

[MuttGrunt]

Originally Posted by lazerborg

I've looked at their website and am considering using them to put ventureshield on my car...would you recommend them for that as far as their pricing?

Paint Protection Film (PPF) is always a nice idea... but I'd recommend having the car properly prepped in the areas for film to be installed first. Having a high quality professional fix your paint prior to film going on is a must if you want your car to look its best.
My $.02

Congrat's on the new car!