[dman1239]

Hey guys going for a full detail- wash,clay,swirl remover, sealant and final wax. Wanted to know which shampoo you guys would recommend to do a good wash to clean off previous wax/sealants. I am going to use a different shampoo on every wash after this one but was wondering what would be the best product to do this?

Thanks

[anerbe]

To remove waxes, people recommend original dawn dish soap to prep the car for clay, etc...

[MuttGrunt]

Originally Posted by anerbe

To remove waxes, people recommend original dawn dish soap to prep the car for clay, etc...

Sure do and I'd also recommend it for a couple of reasons:

1. It works
2. It's readily available
3. You won't be using it all the time, and you aren't going to really damage anything with a wash using it every now and then.


Pro Tip: when you get done with your wash, your car shouldn't be beading water - that'll be your sign that you have effectively stripped old layers of protection.

[Miami]

i use Chemical Guys Citrus Wash works great

[CJ421]

Originally Posted by Miami

i use Chemical Guys Citrus Wash works great

Agreed, I use this too and it strips the protection on there right off.

For regular maintenance washes I use Optimum shampoo.

[MuttGrunt]

Originally Posted by Revelation19

I've had trouble stripping old layers of protection by just using CG Wash & Clear. In your detailing experiences do you ever have trouble stripping old layers, or does Dawn just to do the trick? Does repeat washings with Dawn help? Any other tips appreciated. Thanks!

That can certainly happen. Citrus Wash & Clear isn't as strong as Citrus Wash. Wash and Clear is designed to be more of a maintenance shampoo, though one that doesn't leave behind any residue in the form of gloss agents (unlike it's close cousin, Wash & Gloss which is yellowish in color). Citrus Wash (orange color) is a stronger shampoo as proven from it's dilution ratio (1:256 versus 1:128 for the others), so when diluted even stronger it can pack a punch.

If you're not washing / stripping a large amount of cars, I wouldn't think it really makes sense to purchase another shampoo. You can either use your Wash&Clear in a stronger dilution (try it 1:64 AKA 2ounces per gallon) or give a dish soap like Dawn a try.