Clay Bars & Decontamination

What Is a Clay Bar Kit?

Clay bar kit contains a block of synthetic or natural clay, lubricant spray, and a mitt or a microfiber towel. The clay is sticky and pliable. Before using it, you flatten it into a disc, spray lubricant on the paint, and then rub the clay across the surface. Contamination sticks to the clay, and gets pulled out of the paint.

Lubricant creates a slick barrier between clay and paint so you are not dragging clay directly on the surface. Without the lube, clay sticks and can scratch the car. You can use the clay bar with a mitt, and it is faster to use than on its own.

When and Why to Use Clay Bar?

Use clay bar when paint feels rough after washing because it means that it has been contaminated. This product removes tar, metallic particles and paint overspray from the surface. However, it does not give permanent results. You use it every 6 to 12 months when the paint gets contaminated. One bar does 2 to 3 full cars before it is too dirty to use.

Also, always use the clay bar before waxing or coating. If there is even the slightest contamination, it will bond to the product instead of paint. Clay bar removes what iron remover misses, plus non-iron contamination. Use iron remover first, then clay.

How to Use a Clay Bar Kit?

First, wash the car. It is important to never use the clay bar on dirty paint because it will grind dirt into the surface. We recommend using the two-bucket method and a proper car shampoo. After washing, rinse the vehicle completely. You can work on dry or wet paint as long as you use lubricant. Do it in shade or in the garage because direct sunlight makes it dry too fast.

Break off a quarter of the clay bar. Flatten it into a disc about the size of your palm. Keep the rest sealed for future use. Use it generously. The surface should be visibly wet. Let the clay glide, do not press hard. Once clay glides smoothly without hearing contamination, you are done with that section. Wipe with a microfiber towel to remove lube residue.

A full car takes from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the contamination level. If you drop the clay bar, throw it away. It picks up grit from the ground so it is not worth saving when you risk scratching your car. When you are done, wash the car again to remove clay residue and pulled-out contamination.

FAQ – Clay Bar Kit

How often should I use a clay bar?

You should do it every 6 to 12 months. However, if paint feels rough after washing, clay it regardless of when it was last done.

Can clay bar scratch paint?

You will avoid the scratches by using lube, claying a clean car and using the right amount of pressure (not rubbing it hard like your life depends on it). If you follow the instructions, you will not scratch the paint.

Do I need to wax after claying?

You definitely should wax after using a clay bar. Clay removes contamination but also removes the wax, which means that paint is bare after claying. Protect it with wax, sealant, or coating.

Can I clay bar a new car?

Yes. New cars have contamination from sitting on the dealer lot. If you want to enjoy a clean, shiny car, clay before the first wax.

What is the difference between clay bar grades?

There are fine, medium and hard clay bars. The first one works gently, and it is for light contamination; the hard one is for heavy contamination, but you should be more careful when using it on your car.

Can I use car shampoo as a lubricant?

Yes, you can. Just dilute it heavily so it looks like soapy water. However, dedicated clay lube is better because it is more slick.