Maveric

2 things:

1) I highly recommend using a clay bar before you wax. This includes brand new cars because of embedded rail dust from transportation.

2) Never use a sponge!!! Dirt particles get trapped in the crevices and can scratch the paint. The best are wool mitts since the dirt cannot get trapped in the hairs.

Go to the car care manufacturer's web sites to get tips.

Good luck.

Homer2

[QUOTE]Originally posted by MikesS2K
[B]do you guys like the microfiber towels? they sound great but i've heard a couple people say they aren't?

rhubarb

I went to Bed Bath & Beyond and picked up some "irregular" 100% Cotton bath towels for $5 each. I cut off all the edges, ran them through the washing machine, and now I use them for washing, drying, and Zaino. Works great (and cheap).

Sime

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Maveric
[B]2 things:

1)

iwantmys2k

Wow, I'm confused.

Sponge vs. mitt.

Microfiber vs. cotton towel vs. air compressor vs. chamois.

I guess there's not a single answer (shoulda figured THAT out).

Thank you all for the suggestions. I think this will be helpful for other newbies. It seems like the same questions get asked all the time.

STreece

Here's another simple trick that will help get water off your car after you wash it. If you hose if off using a nozzle, the water is going to bead like crazy. Take the nozzle off the hose and let the water flow smoothly over the surface. You will find that much of the water "sheets" off the car, leaving less to remove with a blower or towel. I couldn't tell you why this works, but it does.