Clay bars are an excellent tool for maintaining a car's clean, flawless paint job. Made from either synthetic or natural clay, they safely and effectively remove contaminants that an ordinary car wash cannot, including industrial fallout, brake dust, rail dust, and acid rain. These substances can wreak havoc on a car's finish over time. Claying a car can help prevent damage, and helps wax and sealants adhere for a brilliant, uniform shine. In order to ensure optimal results and avoid scratching, consumers should inform themselves in advance about the materials they need and steps to follow when claying their car.


When to Clay
Cars receive constant exposure to contaminants when they are on the road, and those parked outdoors are particularly prone to pollution and debris build-up. A general rule of thumb is to clay twice a year, though cars more heavily exposed to pollutants may require more frequent claying.

Plastic Bag Test
First, wash and dry the vehicle. Then, put a clean plastic sandwich bag over your hand and place it on the car. Lightly rub your fingers over the paint: contaminated paint feels gritty to the touch. This is a sign that it is time to clay the car.


Required Materials
There are just a few required materials to use a clay bar.


Product
Description
Clay bar

Lifts contaminants from paint job

Available in bar sizes from 2-to 8-ounces

Choose fine-grade to start

Use a medium-grade bar for more stubborn spots only, as it usually requires polishing after

Clay lubricant

Loosens debris and creates a slick surface for the clay to pass over, preventing damage

Microfiber towel

Gently wipes off excess lube without scratching


It is vital to use a clay lubricant in order to prevent the clay from marking the car's surface. Clay kits are also available. These are a convenient way to buy a clay bar with its corresponding clay lubricant.

Steps in Claying a Car
One of the most important things to remember is that the working surface must be slick. Therefore, it is best to work gradually over small areas, so that the clay lubricant does not dry out. For the same reason, work out of direct sunlight if possible.

Step One: Lubricate
Spray a small area, about 18 square inches, with the clay lubricant. Make sure the lubricant completely covers every square inch.

Step Two: Use the Clay Bar
Break off a small piece of the clay bar and gently rub it back and forth over the working area. Do so in overlapping passes from left to right or up and down. The clay should grab, which is a sign it is picking up the contaminants. When the clay bar glides freely, the paint should be clean.

Step Three: Wipe the Area
Using a microfiber cloth, wipe the excess lube from the area. Run a finger across the paint: it should be smooth. If not, repeat steps two and three, making sure to first reshape the clay bar to expose a new, clean area.

Step Four: Work over the Entire Surface
Repeat steps two and three, gradually working over the vehicle's entire paint job. This detailing process works on chrome and glass, and clay can very effectively remove tar, sap, and insect remains.


Additional Tips for Clay Bars
A 2-ounce clay bar can last up to two years, if used on just one vehicle.

● Avoid picking up contaminants on the bar; they can transfer onto the car's surface.

● Break off a small piece of the clay bar to use at any given time. That way, if it accidentally drops, the entire bar is not wasted.

● Mist the clay bar with lubricant before storing in its storage case or bag. Cut up larger bars (8-ounce bars, for example) into quarters and lubricate to keep them moist.

● For best results, wax or seal the car after claying. This step helps fill in any tiny holes that may remain after dislodging contaminants.