Detailing Jargon
 

Types of products, what they mean, and how to use:


Wax -
Polish -
Sealer -
Glaze -
Paint Protection -
Scratch Remover -

Chamois -
Micro Fibre -
Terry Towel -
Lambwool -
Silicon Blade -

why are there so many different things? AHHH!!

And different vendors use the terms to mean different things.

"Wax" - generally always means a carnuba wax, you put this on last to protect the paint and keep it shiny. The waxes you buy at the local store will often be "cleaner waxes" which means that they also contain abrasives ("polish"). If you don't use a "cleaner wax" then before applying the wax you will want to use a "polish" (abrasive) or clay bar before applying the wax.

"Polish" - should only be used to indicate an abrasive but is also used as a term for a wax or a sealer. Then there is Meguiar's (who loves to confuse things) which sells "Pure Polish" which is actually a glaze.

"Sealer" - a synthetic polymer product that is used instead of a (carnuba) wax. Zaino sells some very good sealers but unfortunately couldn't quite break the habit of incorrectly calling it a polish.

"Glaze" - could be a very fine abrasive polish or could be a non-abrasive, oily filler. Can be used just before a carnuba wax in an attempt the maximize the gloss. A glaze should not be used if you plan to apply a sealer.

"Paint Protection" - either a wax or a sealer.

"Scratch Remover" - a polish (abrasive) sometimes combined with an (oily) glaze.

Re: Detailing Jargon
 

Chamois - Leather material used for drying only.

Microfiber- Cloth used for drying or polishing or wax removal.
Textured so the peaks and valleys grab onto dust and dirt.

Terry Towel - A terry cloth towel (cotton with little loops) used for washing or drying

Lambswool - ?? I don't have any so can't comment

Silicone Blade - AKA California water blade; a silicone squeegee used to speed drying. I've seen these, but been afraid to use them as I'm worried about creating scratches.

There are so many products because the car detailing suppliers want more of your money!