These are not the most discussed tools, but I have found these detailing resources to bring me tremendous value. I always keep these well-stocked and in this article, I will discuss some of my favorite uses for the detailing supplies listed below.
- Foam Cleaning Swabs
- Gtechniq AP2 Soft Foam Filled Microfibre Applicator
- Microfiber Suede Applicators
- Old Wash Mitts
Foam Swabs
I have used foam swabs regularly for engine bay nooks and crannies, cleaning the base attachment of windshield wiper blades, exterior trim dressing applications, and edges in interior compartments. You have the option of spraying or soaking these swabs in your favorite cleaner, prior to utilizing them in hard to reach areas. There are many size/shape options as well with these foam swabs.
Gtechniq AP2 Soft Foam Filled Microfibre Applicator
Not everyone has a Rupes iBrid Nano for 1-inch and 2-inch machine polishing. I have used these Gtechniq AP2 Soft Foam Filled Microfibre Applicator with great success to polish areas I could not reach with a machine. The results of polishing behind a door handle (below).
My personal favorite, Gyeon polishes, have a slightly shorter optimal working time than many of your modern polishes (for example: Jescar Micro Finishing Polish or Sonax Perfect Finish). That shorter working time also makes it more practical for use by hand. The less work to break the polishing abrasives down, is advantageous to hand polishing. I work the polish for about 5 to 10 seconds, of course working in very small areas.
On the negative side, I have found that these applicators can NOT be reused (i.e. cleaned/washed).
Microfiber Suede Applicators
16 x 16 Suede applicators I have found to work well when cleaning tires in a situation where you can not rinse them. Rinseless or waterless washing by wiping the tires with a suede cloth sprayed or soaked in either a waterless or rinseless solution can be very practical if you can only perform rinseless or waterless washing. Like Detail Swabs, I have used microfiber suede applicators for trim, intricate cleaning for plastics in tight areas, and dressing applications.
Old Wash Mitts
I also keep a few of my old used microfiber mitts for odd jobs, like undercarriages. These mitts will ONLY be used in this role.
