Webfoot

Hey Wackos,
I've seen a few topics for maintaining your micro fiber towels, but what about cleaning your buffer pads? I just used my PC for the first time and have a couple dirty polish pads. Wasn't sure how to clean them properly.

CarbonCrew

I use Meguiar's APC diluted 10:1 and a tooth brush to clean my pad. Rinse thoroughly and let air dry in a clean enviroment, ie not your garage. The APC rinses clean and has no problems cutting the wax, polishes, etc.

CarbonCrew

Oh and here's a pad that I recently used on my wife's Rav4. M205 removed an unbelievable amount of dirt and grime. No after pictures, but you'll have to take my word for it that the pad cleaned up and looks like new.

Vanishing Point

Yikes, was that removed after claying or just M205 alone?

animeS2K

Yeah, just scrub them, either by hand or with a stiff brush with dawn and lots of water. I'll usually mix up a batch of soapy water in my wash bucket and let them soak or scrub them out right away. They should clean up like nearly new, but some staining isn't unusual, either.

S2KRAY

If Dawn is effective for removing sealants when washing your vehicle then wouldnt it be harmful to clean your pads with it. I use a APC with a mild brush or Snappy clean powdered cleaner.

animeS2K

Apc will also remove sealants and waxes. I would classify it as a much stronger cleaner than typical dish soap. You NEED something to break down the oils and polish residue embedded in your pads. I doubt any typical cleaner is going to hurt the foam or backing material of your pads.

CarbonCrew

That was after claying! The car spent about two years parked outside under full tree coverage. And, if my memory serves me correctly, I used Meguiar's Professional Blue Clay. That too was extrememly nasty.