If you have a good maintenance schedule and wash your vehicle weekly, or every other week, brake dust and dirt should clean up with just soap and water. If you have more stubborn build up then you will need to look into a dedicated wheel cleaner like
Sonax Wheel Cleaner Plus.
As far as protection goes, I am a big fan of
CarPro HydrO2 for wheels. It really does not get any easier than this product! Also, the protection is great.
CarPro HydrO2: Seal Your Wheels in Less than 1 Minute by Zach McGovern
Let me know if you've got any other questions.
Zach McGovern
Detailed Image Ask-A-Pro Blog Author
www.AttentiontoDetailingPeoria.com