Those 'Noodle' washmitts arent too bad Pete. But the Lambswool is definately better. Either way the Golly hairdo is better than the sponge.
Yes! It's surprising the amount of grit on the bodywork when you think there isn't any - it shocked me too!
If you do get yourself a Gritguard later, (or two, if using two-bucket method) be advised that the Gritguard is actually a bit bigger than your average bucket. You can cut them down, but they are tough, so be darned careful about how you do it or you will be doing DIY amputatations.
Another tip is get light coloured buckets - that way you can see that you have got all the grit out of them before the next wash. Some people like translucent buckets so they can see the water level from the side but these are a slightly more brittle plastic. (Though that problem may have been addressed by now).
Periodically, I remove my wheels for a wash and clean on the inside, which gives me an opportunity to look for damage on the brake hoses or leaks etc.
There is a lot of debate on waxes for wheels but it's generally accepted that a sealant is better than just wax. I use
Planet Polish Wheel Seal and Shine and found it to be excellent. Dont bother with the sponge applicators because any foam applicator will do. I was stunned at how small the bottle was when it arrived, but it lasts ages.
And finally Pete, for your glass, try Meguiars glass cleaner with a roll of workshop (blue) paper, you can feel the dirt coming out! (I use
THIS STUFF)
EDIT: You might try experimenting with different waxes after polishing with, say AutoGlym Super Resin Polish.
Try Meguiars NXT Techwax (Halfords) gives a great long lasting shine that water just rolls off.
Also, and this is my favourite for a real gloss wet-looking shine, Colinite 845 Insulator Wax - even makes silver and white cars look like they have a deep shine! This is now my established favourite.
Claying - do it thoroughly, once every two/three years.
My method:
Pressure-wash car down with just water to loosen/soften dirt.
Snow-foam car (15/20 mins dwell time). Rinse off.
Wash car using two-bucket method, and thoroughly rinse.
(If Claying - now clay car, then, repeat the two bucket wash/rinse.)
Thoroughly dry car with microfibre drying towels.
Polish with AutoGlym Super resin Polish. Remove all polish residue.
Wax with Colinite 845 (Dwell time 45 mins). Remove wax
Repeat wax with Colinite 845 as before, with 45 mins dwell time.
Clean glass (Meguiars glass cleaner)
Stand back and admire results
