Cleaning around emblems / badges

[skywalker1020]

I am not much of a detailer type. Is there an easy way to clean the built-up wax and dirt in the nooks and crannies of paint in the "toyota", "4runner", "limited" and "4wd" badges?
I am looking for kind of quick and dirty, not a process that will take hours. Perfection is not necessary.
Thanks.

 

[ric]

"Q" tips

 

[jharris2]

I read in a detailer's book about using a nail brush. That may be a bit harsh, but an old, soft toothbrush seems to work well, too. But it will not be as soft as the Q-tip that ric suggests.

 

[ric]

Yea, the (old) toothbrush might work better :bigok: as the brisles are longer and would work better IMO. Its been awhile since my rig was new enough to detail it, lol.

 

[4runr30]

:iagree: When I worked at a detail shop we used either a tooth brush or a round soft brush. Brushes work well at getting wax out of all the trim cracks as well.

 

[skywalker1020]

Thanks, everyone, for the advice.
If I use some type of brush, are we talking just the brush on dry paint, or brushing it during a wash with soap and water, or with a quick detailer spray? Or something else?

 

[4runr30]

Thanks, everyone, for the advice.
If I use some type of brush, are we talking just the brush on dry paint, or brushing it during a wash with soap and water, or with a quick detailer spray? Or something else?

I found it easiest to do this when the vehicle was dry. That way the wax wont clump up. You can use an air hose to lightly blow any wax dust left behind. An air hose is also a handy tool to have to blow wax dust out of door jams as well. Note: Make sure the brush has soft bristles so as not to scratch the clear coat, this seems like common sense, but I learned the hard way.

 

[oneflat83]

this is an easy one. Use a mild degresser. i use automagic 713 diluted. they make stiff bristle wood detailing brushes to use with it. if you dont have one cut down the bristles of a paint brush and put a couple wraps of black electical tape around the metal part the holds the bristles (so you dont scratch your ride on accident). when washing spray your emblems and aggitate the area with the brush. rinse and repeat. then wash your car.

 

[ALLEGRO]

Here's what a seasoned show car owner showed me:

Take a two-inch paint brush with natural bristles. Tape from the joint down leaving about an inch to an inch and a half untaped. Now you can have the bristles really get into those tight places and remove the debris.

I have one I use when I am washing and another when dry and waxing. You will ba amazed at how well it works.