Car Detailing - What products are your go to?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by prydey

Yeah, but that's for a bucket wash.

If i can get away with about 80ml like you say, then it's about the same economy as snow, as I use about 100ml of that in a 1L container.

I'm actually pretty frustrated with Carpro not offering a dilution rate for Reset in a foam cannon, despite them showing glossy pictures on their website and catalogue with Reset covering a car in thick foamy goodness.

I had someone get stroppy with me for suggesting that I use 100ml of Reset in a foam cannon, the person saying that he got great foam from just 30ml. I think if you went for 50 to 80ml, you would be all good.

[fordomatic]

I’ve used 50ml in 1l in the past and it’s been fine. I feel the cleaning power of Snow is better though.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by fordomatic

I’ve used 50ml in 1l in the past and it’s been fine. I feel the cleaning power of Snow is better though.

Snow certainly cleans better, but then it's actually more alkaline than what NV officially quote, that alkalinity is what makes the difference.

[prydey]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Snow certainly cleans better, but then it's actually more alkaline than what NV officially quote, that alkalinity is what makes the difference.

Originally Posted by fordomatic

I’ve used 50ml in 1l in the past and it’s been fine. I feel the cleaning power of Snow is better though.

I think that tips the scales back in favour of snow. I do like it's cleaning power as a foam.

[DFB FGXR6]

DFB’s Soap Shoot Out

In detailing, soap is used for a couple of key reasons.
-To assist in the removal of dirt and contamination
-To provide lubrication during the removal of said dirt and contamination.

Soap is administered via a foam cannon and/or via a bucket and wash media (mitt, pad or sponge).

Having tried a large variety of soaps over the years, this a run-down of each I have used so far.

The first 3 soaps are what I consider the top 3 maintenance soaps on the market. These are the products that I use and recommend the most. The difference between the three is minor, choosing any of these will be a winner.

Carpro Reset – In my opinion, the best maintenance soap on the market. Exceptional foaming, exceptional slickness, exceptional scent and pH neutral. Reset is expensive, but this is a classic case of you get what you pay for. I keep trying different soaps, but nothing really seems to be able to match Reset as a total package.

Lubrication – 10/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – Hard to describe, it’s simply brilliant!
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 10/10



Koch Chemie GSF – My current number two, GSF is a pH neutral soap making it ideal for maintenance washing, offering supreme lubricity and brilliant foam quality. It’s the scent that really seals the deal, one of THE BEST smelling products in the detailing world. Again, an expensive soap, but the user experience is bloody brilliant.

Lubrication – 10/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – Cherry
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 10/10



NV Snow – Number three on my list, this was the first soap I bought from a specialist supplier, a massive step up from what I had been using up to that point. Snow ticks every box, slickness, cleaning ability, foam quality, easy rinsing and pleasant scent. This soap is a runnier liquid, making it easy to measure and pour.

Lubrication – 10/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – “Pleasant”
PH Level – 7.2 (Note – I have seen numbers as high as 9.9)
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 10/10



The next three are my top 3 decontamination / strip soaps. Use these for occasional deep cleaning or in preparation for a new wax/sealant. Unlike the maintenance soaps, these are in no particular order.

Carpro Lift – This is a high pH soap designed for decontamination. Brilliant foam quality and strong cleaning power. It does lack some of Reset’s slickness and trades a sweet scent for a stronger “chemical” smell. Use this only occasionally to deep clean a ceramic coating, when preparing for a paint correction or when prior to applying a new wax/sealant.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – Unscented
PH Level – 12+
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 10/10



Carpro Descale – This soap swings the other way compared to Lift, being an acidic product for decontamination washes. The acidic nature can help remove hard water spots. Descale is another product that can be used to revive an older ceramic coating. Again, a product for occasional use, I like to use this as a strip wash. Cherry scented and offering similar lubricity to Lift.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – Cherry
PH Level – Not Specified, my testing showed about 3.7
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 10/10



Obsessed Garage Decontamination Soap – This is an interesting soap that will soon be freely available in Australia. It’s a higher pH alkaline soap that offers higher lubricity than the other two, offers brilliant foaming and strong cleaning ability. It has a solvent base for that added ability.

Lubrication – 10/10
Cleaning Ability 10/10
Scent – Mild Citrus
PH Level – 10.0
Consistency - Medium
Overall Rating – 9/10



The following products trace a line to the point where I have arrived at my top 6 soaps. Some are good, but not great products. Some are absolute dogs. This has been a near 20 year journey, the thrill of the chase being the motivation to keep looking, keep trying.

These are a few from my earlier days detailing -

Meguiar’s Gold Class – Available everywhere, this is a decent soap that foams up well and provides plenty of suds. This soap will leave a gloss enhancer behind, best avoided on ceramic coated cars. Being so thick and gloopy, Gold Class is harder to measure out than more runny soaps.

Lubrication – 7/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent – Musky
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thick
Overall Rating – 6/10

Meguiar’s NXT – Again, available everywhere with great suds. With “synthetic lubricating oils”, NXT will also leave something behind. It can also soften hard water, meaning its safer to use in the sun. This is also a thicker soap, making it harder to measure.

Lubrication – 7/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent – Fruity
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thick
Overall Rating – 6/10

Meguiar’s Ultimate Wash & Wax – Another thick, gloopy soap from Meguiar’s that will also leave behind a small amount of protection. I stopped using this due to poor cleaning ability and the fact it was leaving behind a residue on glass.

Lubrication – 7/10
Cleaning Ability 5/10
Scent – Bubble gum
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thick
Overall Rating – 4/10

Autoglym Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner – The single worst soap I have ever used, and one of the worst detailing products I have had the displeasure of spending money on. No suds, no lubrication, no cleaning ability. This stuff is utter garbage, run don’t walk from this pathetic product.

Lubrication – 2/10
Cleaning Ability 1/10
Scent – Can’t remember LOL
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 1/10

Bowden’s Snow Job – I started using this when foam cannons really took off. Initially, I liked how well it foamed. As time went on, I realised this soap lacks meaningful cleaning ability. It’s thicker consistency also made it harder to pour into the foam cannon. There are far better soaps than this, if you don’t want to purchase from a specialist supplier, then look towards Gold Class or Bathe instead.

Lubrication – 6/10
Cleaning Ability 1/10
Scent – Can’t remember LOL
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thick
Overall Rating – 2/10

From this point on, I’m commenting from more resent experience.

NV Snow Plus – This soap is a higher pH / alkaline soap designed for more cleaning ability. It lacks the pleasant scent of regular snow and is a clear liquid rather than coloured blue. You would use this soap on dirtier vehicles or when doing a decontamination/strip wash, Snow Plus having the ability to remove or seriously degrade a wax/sealant. A brilliant choice and a staple of my cabinet for a number of years now.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 9/10
Scent – Un-scented
PH Level – 8.1 (Note – I have seen numbers as high as 12.1)
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 9/10



Adam’s Car Shampoo – This is a pH neutral soap offering superb foaming ability, decent slickness and a pleasing blueberry scent. This is also a good option for washing in full sun. It’s only drawback is a too thick consistency that makes pouring more difficult. It also a touch expensive for what it is. A decent soap, just not great.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent – Blueberry
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thick
Overall Rating – 7/10



Adam’s Mega Foam – This is like Adam’s Car Shampoo, just on steroids. It foams better while maintaining a neutral pH, it also remedies the too thick consistency by being thinner and easier to measure out. Nice fruity scent as well. The only drawback is the price, being just too expensive for what it is. I actually like this product, I would certainly order it again………when on sale.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent – “Fruity”
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 7/10



Gyeon Bathe – Gyeon offer a number of soaps, I think this is the one to go for. This is a maintenance soap that offers a runny consistency for easy pouring, a lovely scent and stunning foam quality. A very, very good soap, probably the best soap you can buy at a regular automotive store (Repco).

Lubrication – 9/10
Cleaning Ability 8/10
Scent – “Pleasant”
PH Level – 6.0
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 8/10



Koch Chemie AS – This is an odd product that I don’t really see the point in. It doesn’t foam, it’s lemon scent is weak, and it isn’t all that good at cleaning despite a higher pH of 9.0. While it’s considerably cheaper than GSF, that is not enough incentive to give this a try. Avoid.

Lubrication – 5/10
Cleaning Ability 5/10
Scent – Lemon
PH Level – 9.0
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 2/10



Optimum Car Wash Shampoo – If you like a thinner foam consistency, this is a great option. Medium thickness in terms of consistency, has a pleasant smell and offers decent cleaning ability. Another very good soap.

Lubrication – 8/10
Cleaning Ability 8/10
Scent – Blueberry
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Medium
Overall Rating – 8/10



P&S Pearl – I don’t like this soap. Pearl is said to foam very well, but I just couldn’t get the thick foam quality I normally prefer. The lemon scent is faint, the cleaning ability average and it’s priced fairly. I have seen some suggestion that Pearl foams better when mixed with de-ionised water, but that is unrealistic for most. I’m currently using this soap to clean my wheely bins, that says it all.

Lubrication – 7/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent –Lemon
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 2/10



Stjarnagloss Sno – This is one of a couple soaps offered by this brand. Sno was designed as a pre-wash soak, in which case it foams like a champion. As a bucket soap, it lacks lubrication and feels quite odd under a wash mitt. It also stained my foam cannon pickup tube blue. Not a soap I will be re-ordering.

Lubrication – 3/10
Cleaning Ability 7/10
Scent – Coconut
PH Level – 7.5
Consistency - Thin
Overall Rating – 5/10



That's a lot of soaps! And I'm sure I will try a lot more! As mentioned, choosing any of the top 6 soaps will serve you well.

[DFB FGXR6]

I have asked OG a few times about what is the recommended dilution of Carpro Reset in a foam cannon, as I have not found anything official other than the 500:1 rate for bucket washing. Today, they posted this video in regards to both Reset and GSF.

The important part is at 2.06min where, and I quote, "....they (Carpro) recommend putting 90ml in your foam cannon...."

That means 90ml of soap to 910ml of water. That dilution equates to about 10:1 which is in line with a lot of other foaming soaps.



I have been using 80 - 90ml of Reset in my 1000ml foam cannon bottle for a while now, so it seems I was on the right track.

[bangm001]

Awsome stuff as usual DFB! Which of the 3: Car pro reset, Koch Chemie GSF or Gyeon Bathe would you recommend for me given i only bucket wash ?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by bangm001

Awsome stuff as usual DFB! Which of the 3: Car pro reset, Koch Chemie GSF or Gyeon Bathe would you recommend for me given i only bucket wash ?

If your car is ceramic coated, then Carpro Reset.

Otherwise, I would go for Koch Chemie GSF, this rates at 7.5 in pH compared to 6 for Bather, in theory being gentler on wax's and sealants.

For Bucket Washing -

Add 30ml of Reset to 10 - 15 liters of water. (Reset is WAY more concentrated, so you can get away with only that amount.)

Add 50ml of GSF to 10lt of water.

I probably use more than those recommendations without problem.

[JADED6]

Awesome posts DFB, are most of the products in your ratings guide available online?
I will hunt some down when it comes time to restock.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by JADED6

Awesome posts DFB, are most of the products in your ratings guide available online?
I will hunt some down when it comes time to restock.

I wrote this up a few months ago, updating it as needed.

Any product listed there you can buy with confidence.

https://www.fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=11494985

EDIT: Oops, I may have read that wrong.

Yes, most of the products I use are sourced from online retailers. A select few, like Meguair's, Bowdens and Invisible Glass are had from the big box retailers.

If there is a particular product you are looking for, let me know and I will steer you in the right direction.

[DFB FGXR6]

Would a run down on detailing suppliers in Australia be helpful to anyone here?

[bangm001]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Would a run down on detailing suppliers in Australia be helpful to anyone here?

Yes please, and a heads up of when stuff goes on sale too! ;-)

[GasoLane]

Originally Posted by bangm001

Yes please, and a heads up of when stuff goes on sale too! ;-)

I'm sure that if DFB puts up a suppliers list members here can join each company's mailing list to be notified of specials, instead of him having to waste time monitoring each one before passing it on here.

[FTE217]

Originally Posted by GasoLane

I'm sure that if DFB puts up a suppliers list members here can join each company's mailing list to be notified of specials, instead of him having to waste time monitoring each one before passing it on here.

ditto, once you join you'll be sure to get emails for every special.

[prydey]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Would a run down on detailing suppliers in Australia be helpful to anyone here?

My bank account says no...

I use waxit and detail store. That keeps me poor enough.

[FTE217]

Originally Posted by prydey

My bank account says no...

I use waxit and detail store. That keeps me poor enough.

haha agree - why get your head more messed up
If you can't get anough of your needs via those 2 sites we'd all be DFB's

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by GasoLane

I'm sure that if DFB puts up a suppliers list members here can join each company's mailing list to be notified of specials, instead of him having to waste time monitoring each one before passing it on here.

Ha ha, not a waste of my time at all, I look at each of the main suppliers' websites every single day! I'm sure you knew that anyway.

[GasoLane]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

Ha ha, not a waste of my time at all, I look at each of the main suppliers' websites every single day! I'm sure you knew that anyway.

I thought you'd be busy sandbagging your garage

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by GasoLane

I thought you'd be busy sandbagging your garage

Thankfully it didn't get to that stage, although I did block up the drains. More rain is on the way, which is a concern, although they are saying additional flood peaks are not expected.

[GasoLane]

I got this from one of the members here (not his car) seems it was in the Maribyrnong area.................. he should've wound the window up!

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by GasoLane

I got this from one of the members here (not his car) seems it was in the Maribyrnong area.................. he should've wound the window up!


image

Will be one of 1000's by now.

[prydey]

Another $100 to waxit.

1L NV Snow

500ml NV boost v2

BOGO Carpro inside + innerscrub mitt

+ free towel.

Just realised too when typing this that I actually meant to order Carpro innerQD, not inside. Oh well, it looks like they are similar products. One more of a cleaner than protectant.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by prydey

Another $100 to waxit.

1L NV Snow

500ml NV boost v2

BOGO Carpro inside + innerscrub mitt

+ free towel.

Just realised too when typing this that I actually meant to order Carpro innerQD, not inside. Oh well, it looks like they are similar products. One more of a cleaner than protectant.

Carpro Inside is a dedicated cleaner, so would be handy to have around anyway. Use it on all interior surfaces including leather, carpet and plastics. Just be aware that it will remove any dressing or protectants applied to those surfaces (Perl or 303 for instance).

Carpro InnerQD offers only mild cleaning ability and mild protection, minimal in both cases. It's basically used for maintenance between deep cleans. Being alcohol bases, InnerQD flashes away and leaves no streaking and offers anti-microbial protection too. It's supposed to prevent dust attraction, but I don't know how credible that is. I use it to remove dust and the odd smudge, I also like how it can be used on screens and glossy trim without streaking. Strong lemon scent is nice too.

[T3rminator]

Has anyone used the glass cleaners with ceramic treatments? Like the Armor All Ultra Ceramic Glass Treatment & Cleaner?

Gimmick or does it actually have benefits?

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by T3rminator

Has anyone used the glass cleaners with ceramic treatments? Like the Armor All Ultra Ceramic Glass Treatment & Cleaner?

Gimmick or does it actually have benefits?

I'm not really sure as I have not tried anything like that. I guess there will be some sort of compromise in terms of both the cleaning ability and the actual protective element of the product. As in a jack of all trades, master of none type of analogy.

If you want to combine those two aspects, I think P&S Bead Maker makes a great exterior glass "cleaner" while also adding something to the glass for protection/water repellency.

[DFB FGXR6]

DFB's Detailing Address Book.

When I started buying products online, there were only a couple of suppliers for this sort of thing. My first purchase was from Waxit, back in those days they sponsored this forum. Car Care Products were also a company I bought from. These days, the number of companies selling specialist detailing products has exploded, opening up availability of brands and products that were once only the domain of professional detailers.

This guide will hopefully highlight the strength and weaknesses of each supplier, the brands they stock and the overall shopping experience.

The first three suppliers are of those who I order from the most, mainly due their extensive range of products and brands and good service.

Waxit – https://www.waxit.com.au/

It’s only natural to start with Waxit as I have been buying from them for longest time. Based in Melbourne, Waxit are the official distributor of Carpro in Australia. They are also the parent of the NV Brand, formally known as Concours Car Care. Waxit also sell probably the best range of polishing machines and pads, along with quality compounds and polish. Shipping costs are reasonable, orders being dispatched and delivered in good time. For a long time, Waxit were the leading retailer of specialist detailing supplies, however they have somewhat fallen a bit behind, missing out on sales to competitors who are selling more popular brands like Koch Chemie, Optimum and P&S. Their microfiber range is a touch limited too and the website is a little bug prone, although that will be addressed soon apparently.

Key Brands –Carpro, NV, Auto Finesse, Poorboys, Shinemate, Rupes, Lake Country, Kwazar, Scholl, Collinite.

Perks –
Free Shipping above $150
Loyalty program offering free products

Detailing Shed – https://detailingshed.com.au/

A Sydney based company I have been supporting since they began. At the time, they were offering a decent range of products, however that has only grown and grown since. The owner Nick started this company as a side hustle, growing to the point where he made it his full-time job. Initially, Detailing Shed sold both Carpro and NV products, in time these were phased out and replaced by other brands, differentiating themselves from Waxit. They stock several of the leading brands, but also offering the most comprehensive array of pressure washing machines and accessories. I also like the huge range of detailing tools and accessories. Detailing Shed are the local distributor of both iK and Pressol sprayers. Shipping prices are competitive, as is dispatch/delivery times and the website is easy and logical to use. My favorite supplier, the one I order with the most.

Key Brands –
Koch Chemie, Big Boi, Gtechniq, P&S, Optimum, Maxshine, Flex, Kranzle, MTM, Mosmatic, Pressol, Detail Factory, The Rag Company, Scangrip, iK.

Perks –
Free Shipping above $150

The Detail Store – https://www.detailstore.com.au/

This company was once called Apex Customs but was rebranded a few years ago to be more obvious in what they sell. Although the Apex name continues for their house brand of detailing tools, towels, chemicals and polishers. Like Detailing Shed, The Detail Store started retailing, among others, NV and Carpro before dropping them for Gyeon, Gtechniq and Koch Chemie. Over the last couple of years, the Detail Store has expanded into pressure washing and pressure washing accessories. I shop with the Detail Store often, the wide spread of popular brands keeps me coming back. Their shipping speed from Melbourne is very good, although the website is a little clunky and categories a touch confusing.

Key Brands – Angelwax, Aenso, Big Boi, Koch Chemie, Gtechniq, P&S, Kranzle, MTM, Mosmatic, Detail Factory, The Rag Company, Scangrip, iK, Swissvax.

Perks –
Free Shipping above $150
Rewards program

CarCareCo – https://carcareco.com.au/

This company is the retail division of All Care Vehicle Wash Solutions, a company that supplies products to professional detailers and the commercial car washing industry. Based in Melbourne, CarCareCo are the official Australian distributor of The Rag Company, as such they offer the widest range of their towels. Their range is very extensive across towels, accessories and detailing chemicals. I typically only buy from CarCareCo for towels and microfiber. The likes of Waxit offer sales and specials more often, others offer free shipping for larger orders. CarCareCo only offer a 10% discount for sales above $200. I also find the website over complicated with poor category layout and duplication in a couple of areas.

Key Brands -
Koch Chemie, Mckee’s 37, P&S, Wowo’s, Detail Factory, The Rag Company, Ethos, iK.

Perks –
10% off on sales above $200

Car Care Products – https://www.carcareproducts.com.au/

For a long time, this company had distribution warehouses in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, however the Melbourne facility closed last year. One of the earliest online retailers for detailing products, Car Care Products became outdone by a variety of new competitors in recent years. While they were the first retailers of Gyeon in Australia, their range of brands lost pace with the rest of the industry. Earlier this year, Car Care Products introduced The Rag Company, P&S, iK, Ethos and Sonax to their line up, improving the appeal of the store greatly. CCP offer a couple of other unique brands in the form of Stjarnagloss, Duragloss and Dr. Beasley’s. They also have a house brand called Mint, offering a range of tools, accessories and chemicals. I never really ordered from CCP as their line-up was outdated and the shipping the costliest of all. New brands have at least put them back onto the shopping list. Simple, easy to navigate website, although a little dated looking.

Key Brands –
P&S, Collinite, Bilt Hamber, Duragloss, EZ Detail, Gyeon, The Rag Company, iK, Menzerna, Metrovac, Swissvax, Sonax, Stjarnagloss, Vikan

Perks –
Free Shipping over $150

Autobuff Car Care – https://autobuff.com.au/

This Melbourne based company was started in 2016, although relatively new on my radar. I really love the website look and ease of navigation, everything is clearly laid out and logical to flow through. For me, they offer most of the brands I like and have not pursued the lower end of with the likes of Autoglym in the way Waxit and Car Care Products have. Autobuff have also branched into pressure washer machines and parts.

Key Brands – Bilt Hamber, Big Boi, Detail Factory, Diamond Protech, EZ Detail, Gtechniq, Gyeon, iK, Koch Chemie, Kranzle, Marolex, Mckee’s, Menzerna, Mosmatic, MTM, Optimum, P&S, Pressol, Sonax, Stoner’s, The Rag Company.

Perks –
Free Delivery over $120

Prime Finish – https://store.primefinish.com.au/

Another Melbourne based company that operates as both a professional high-end detail shop and an online product retailer. The website is clean and simple, offering a small but quality range of brands and products. Their main point of difference for me is that they seem to be the only supplier of Microfiber Madness products in this country. Modesta and Aenso are also somewhat unique too. Prime Finish have also branched into Kranzle pressure washers and MTM accessories. I tend to order here when I need Microfiber Madness products only.

Main Brands - Aenso, Carpro, NV (limited), Detail Factory, Detail Guardz, Kranzle, Microfiber Madness, Modesta, MTM, P&S, Scholl, The Rag Company, Wowo’s.

Perks –
Free Delivery over $150

Refract Premium Car Care – https://refractccp.com.au/

This is a Perth based supplier of own branded detailing tools, chemicals and accessories. The website is a poorly executed, is hard to navigate and does not offer clear definition between information, pictures and sale information. But if you are looking for some nicely designed detailing accessories, this is a worthwhile place to look. Think stainless steel shelving, polisher racks and detailing carts. They also sell a decent variety of detailing tools, most of it rebranded generic products made in the same factory. I have only shopped here once, mainly because I’m a brand snob.

Key Brands – Refract branded chemicals, tools, acessories, polishers and polish pads.

Perks –
None I can see

Auspro Automotive Detailing – https://www.ausprodetailing.com.au/

This Sydney based company started in 2017 from a lifelong passionate detailer. They offer a good spread of brands, offering a smaller selection from each in the interests of only selling the best of the best. That said, they do seem to sell most of the Koch Chemie brand. Auspro have stuck to detailing chemicals, tools and accessories rather than expanding into pressure washers, vacuums, steamers and extractors. A couple of unique brands include Phoenix EOD, Ewocar and Xtreme Solutions. They also have a couple of select Turtlewax and Meguiar’s products listed. The website is plain but easy to navigate.

Key Brands – Buff & Shine, Carpro (Perl only), Detail Factory, Ewocar, Ethos, Gtechniq, Gyeon, iK, Koch Chemie, Meguiars, Phoenix EOD, Turtlewax, Maxshine, McKee’s, P&S, The Rag Company, Wowo’s.

Perks –
10% off orders above $150

Detail Central – https://detailcentral.com.au/

Melbourne based, this company retails a small selection of brands through a simple but outdated website. Their biggest point of difference would be the Kamikaze and Nanoskin brands. They also sell the full line of Flex polishers.

Key Brands – Angelwax, Buff and Shine, Flex, Kamikaze, Nanoskin, Paragon.

Perks –
$9.95 flat rate shipping

Autofiber Australia – https://autofiber.com.au/

This is the retail outlet for Clean Getaway Car Detailing in Queensland. The company focuses on selling a wide variety of Autofiber towels, wash mitts, applicators and brushes. They also sell a small selection of chemicals and tools, including some key Bowden’s products. The website is not especially clear or easy to use.

Key Brands – Autofiber Microfiber, Bowden’s, American Detailer, Atri Pro

Perks – Free shipping above $140

Pro Detailing Supplies – https://www.prodetailingsupplies.com.au/

Melbourne based, this company is an outlet for the 3D brand of detailing products, a brand aimed at professional detailing shops. Most of that is bulk chemicals, but they also offer a small collection of detailing tools and the Flex range.

Key Brands – 3D, Flex, Oakey, Purewax

Perks –
Free Shipping over $199

Pfeiffer Car Care – https://pfeiffercarcare.com.au/

Based in Forestville NSW, this company focuses on retailing Koch Chemie and The Rag Company, offering an extensive range from both. Website is dated but functional.

Key Brands – Detail Factory, Koch Chemie, The Rag Company

Perks –
None that I can see

ZAS – https://www.zas.com.au/

This Sydney based company retails and wholesales a range detailing brands. Being honest, I have not ordered from ZAS before, but looking over the website, everything seems to be there in terms of brands and range of product. ZAS also seem to carry a few of the more obscure brands including Artdeshine, TACSYSTEM, Finish Kare, Nxtzen and P21S. Although I do note a lot of products are out of stock. The website design is dated but functional.

Key Brands – 3D, 3M, 303, Artdeshine, Blackwow, Carpro, Clay Magic, Collinite, Finish Kare, Gtechniq, iK, Meguiar’s, Nxtzen, Optimum, P&S (limited), P21S, Scangrip, Scholl, TACSYSTEM, Wheel Woolies, Zentool

Perks –
Free Shipping above $150

AutoFX WA – https://shop.autofxwa.com.au/

Based in Perth, this company sells a decent range of products, including their own Optix range. AutoFX are also the importers of Colour Lock products, selling them via their own website as well as the Colour Lock Australia website. Rupes and Flex are well represented, as is Swissvax. The website is hard to navigate and does not include a brand listing, making it hard to shop certain singular items.

Key Brands – Colour Lock, Swissvax, Rupes, Flex, Optix, Chemical Guys………and more but are not listed conveniently.

Perks –
None that I can see.

Detail Supplies.com – https://www.detailsupplies.com.au/

Sydney based, this company offer some unique brands and products. They are the sole importer of POKA Premium and the Japanese brand SOFT99. POKA Premium supply a wide range of detailing tools and storage products, think wheel stands, polisher racks, brush holders and consumable racks. SOFT99 offer an interesting line of detailing chemicals and tools. The website is basically divided into two sections so as to cater to each brand. If you are looking for something a little different, this is the store for you.

Key Brands – POKA Premium, SOFT99

Perks –
Free Shipping above $160

VGA Auto Paints – https://vgautopaints.com.au/

This company is mainly set up to supply the auto-body industry but do also sell some detailing products. Based in Sydney, VGA offer another avenue to source brands like Carpro and NV. The website is clear, clean and well presented, although it also lacks a brand search tab.

Key Brands – Auto Finesse, Carpro, Gyeon, Osren, NV, 3D, Juice, Menzerna, Rupes.

Perks –
None that I can see

Premium Car Care – https://www.premiumcarcare.com.au/

This company supply a large range of brands and products. I have not heard good things about this company, as such I can’t really recommend shopping with them.

Key Brands – Far too many to list here.

Perks –
Free Shipping above $150

There are also several smaller companies that sell detailing related products. Most of these I have only discovered by searching for specific brands. I will only provide the link and key brand/s they offer.

Carthy’s Car Care – Capro
https://www.carthyscarcare.com.au/

Final Inspection – Own Branded.
https://finalinspection.com.au/

Ultra Fine Car Care – The Rag Company
https://www.ultrafinecarcare.com.au/

Nestie Detailing
https://nestiedetailing.com.au/shop/

Sape
https://shop.sape.com.au/

Several brands also sell directly through their website -

Adam’s Polishes (Expensive, wait until on sale)
https://adamspolishes.com.au/

Bowden’s Own (Fully stocked, but more expensive than when buying from the likes of Supercheap and Repco ect)
https://www.bowdensown.com.au/

Koch Chemie Australia
https://kochexperts.com/au/shop/

Colour Lock Australia
https://www.colourlockaustralia.com....KQmzvX48FNLw5g

Gtechniq Australia
https://www.gtechniq.com.au/

Maxshine Australia
https://maxshinestore.com.au/

Mirch
https://www.mirch.com.au/

Mothers
https://motherspolish.com.au/

NV Car Care
https://nvcarcare.com.au/

Swissvax Australia
https://www.swissvaxaustralia.com/?g...SAAEgKOTfD_BwE

Sonax Australia
https://www.sonax.com.au/

I'm sure there more that I have missed. For me, I mostly order from the suppliers in the top of this post, but it's great to have options for when certain products are not available.

[GO FURTHER]

If you could have ONLY one...

DFB FGXR6... I thought this might be a good exercise for you to ponder, being our resident detailing Guru.

God appears to you on Mount Detail and says "Deyon...You can pick ONE and ONLY one detailing product or brand in each of the following car care loving categories".

"It does not have to be the best... As that would be very subjective amongst the flock I'm sure".

"But I want you to select the one you believe has given you the overall best results, experience or "bang for your buck" and then please advice the AFF forum faithful, as you won't be able to buy any others, since I am curbing your spending addiction on detailing products!"

"These will be the ones you will bring along on the ark, when the detailing stores are all awash, and no stock is left dry in the next great flood"

The 10 commandants categories are;

1. Car wash

2. Wax / Paint protection

3. Wheel cleaner

4. Tyre shine

5. Glass cleaner

6. Metal / chrome polish

7. Exterior / engine bay plastics & trim

8. Leather care

9. Interior cabin protectant

10. Quick Detailer (bodywork)

"Present your wisdom carved in stone when you descend from the mountain"

(Please feel free to add more commandants categories to the above if you wish).

P.S. Other detailing disciples here are also allowed to select and present their own preferred list, if they so desire.

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by GO FURTHER

If you could have ONLY one...

DFB FGXR6... I thought this might be a good exercise for you to ponder, being our resident detailing Guru.

God appears to you on Mount Detail and says "Deyon...You can pick ONE and ONLY one detailing product or brand in each of the following car care loving categories".

"It does not have to be the best... As that would be very subjective amongst the flock I'm sure".

"But I want you to select the one you believe has given you the overall best results, experience or "bang for your buck" and then please advice the AFF forum faithful, as you won't be able to buy any others, since I am curbing your spending addiction on detailing products!"

"These will be the ones you will bring along on the ark, when the detailing stores are all awash, and no stock is left dry in the next great flood"

The 10 commandants categories are;

1. Car wash

2. Wax / Paint protection

3. Wheel cleaner

4. Tyre shine

5. Glass cleaner

6. Metal / chrome polish

7. Exterior / engine bay plastics & trim

8. Leather care

9. Interior cabin protectant

10. Quick Detailer (bodywork)

"Present your wisdom carved in stone when you descend from the mountain"

(Please feel free to add more commandants categories to the above if you wish).

P.S. Other detailing disciples here are also allowed to select and present their own preferred list, if they so desire.

Curb my spending habits? Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!

[DFB FGXR6]

Originally Posted by GO FURTHER

If you could have ONLY one...

DFB FGXR6... I thought this might be a good exercise for you to ponder, being our resident detailing Guru.

God appears to you on Mount Detail and says "Deyon...You can pick ONE and ONLY one detailing product or brand in each of the following car care loving categories".

"It does not have to be the best... As that would be very subjective amongst the flock I'm sure".

"But I want you to select the one you believe has given you the overall best results, experience or "bang for your buck" and then please advice the AFF forum faithful, as you won't be able to buy any others, since I am curbing your spending addiction on detailing products!"

"These will be the ones you will bring along on the ark, when the detailing stores are all awash, and no stock is left dry in the next great flood"

The 10 commandants categories are;

1. Car wash

2. Wax / Paint protection

3. Wheel cleaner

4. Tyre shine

5. Glass cleaner

6. Metal / chrome polish

7. Exterior / engine bay plastics & trim

8. Leather care

9. Interior cabin protectant

10. Quick Detailer (bodywork)

"Present your wisdom carved in stone when you descend from the mountain"

(Please feel free to add more commandants categories to the above if you wish).

P.S. Other detailing disciples here are also allowed to select and present their own preferred list, if they so desire.

You know, it's this sort of thing I have running through my brain as I attempt to fall asleep at night, so I have come up with a list like this a number of times, to the point where I don't even have to think what each answer will be.

Let's cut to the chase -

1. Car Wash Soap - Koch Chemie GSF.
I can use this safely on any car, ceramic coated or waxed. Smells great, super slick, superb foaming. If I needed more cleaning ability, I can add some APC to make it stronger.

2. Wax/Paint Protection - Gyeon Can Coat EVO
I fell in love with this product recently, it's just so bloody easy to use and offers supreme water repellency. Unlike a heavy-duty ceramic coating, it requires less attention to apply while outliving a wax 2 to 3 times.

3. Wheel Cleaner - P&S Brake Buster
I chose this product because it doubles as a tyre cleaner as well. Can be diluted up or down depending on cleaning needs. Foams good too.

4. Tyre Shine - NV Onyx
A favorite for a long time, Onyx can be layered up or down depending on taste. Smells divine and distributes with ease.

5. Glass Cleaner - Gyeon Q2M Glass
Just a great product for streak free glass.

6. Metal / Chrome Polish - Autosol
I don't have a great need for a product like this, when I do, I just grab this.

7. Exterior / Engine Bay Plastics & Trim - Meguiar's Hyper Dressing
I have stopped using a dressing on exterior trims, but Hyper Dressing is the go to for engines bays. Simple as spray and walk away, no mess, no streaks.

8. Leather Care - Bowden's Leather Love
Ideally, I would use Colour Lock Leather Cleaner followed by one of their protectants. But seeing as I'm only allowed one choice here, it Bowden's Leather Love as it is a combined cleaner/conditioner. It can also be tailored, use as a spray and wipe for light cleaning, or use with a soft brush to ramp up the cleaning ability. Leaves a clean, matte finish.

9. Interior Protectant - Carpro InnerQD
I stopped using an interior protect a long time ago now. InnerQD is a happy medium, offering just enough cleaning ability, while also leaving a mild form of protection behind. This product leaves the interior plastics with a clean, matte, factory look and finish.

10. Quick Detailer - P&S Paint Gloss
Smells great, extremely easy to use, can be used on all surfaces including glass, paint, plastics and interior surfaces. Would serve duty as a drying aid and as a clay bar lubricant too.

BONUS CHOICE - Koch Chemie Green Star
I'm adding this because I think this would be a non-negotiable inclusion. An APC can be diluted up and down to suit interior cleaning, added to soap to increase cleaning ability, cleaning engines bays, cleaning carpets, cleaning rubber cargo mats.

[GO FURTHER]

Originally Posted by DFB FGXR6

You know, it's this sort of thing I have running through my brain as I attempt to fall asleep at night, so I have come up with a list like this a number of times, to the point where I don't even have to think what each answer will be.

Let's cut to the chase -

1. Car Wash Soap - Koch Chemie GSF.
I can use this safely on any car, ceramic coated or waxed. Smells great, super slick, superb foaming. If I needed more cleaning ability, I can add some APC to make it stronger.

2. Wax/Paint Protection - Gyeon Can Coat EVO
I fell in love with this product recently, it's just so bloody easy to use and offers supreme water repellency. Unlike a heavy-duty ceramic coating, it requires less attention to apply while outliving a wax 2 to 3 times.

3. Wheel Cleaner - P&S Brake Buster
I chose this product because it doubles as a tyre cleaner as well. Can be diluted up or down depending on cleaning needs. Foams good too.

4. Tyre Shine - NV Onyx
A favorite for a long time, Onyx can be layered up or down depending on taste. Smells divine and distributes with ease.

5. Glass Cleaner - Gyeon Q2M Glass
Just a great product for streak free glass.

6. Metal / Chrome Polish - Autosol
I don't have a great need for a product like this, when I do, I just grab this.

7. Exterior / Engine Bay Plastics & Trim - Meguiar's Hyper Dressing
I have stopped using a dressing on exterior trims, but Hyper Dressing is the go to for engines bays. Simple as spray and walk away, no mess, no streaks.

8. Leather Care - Bowden's Leather Love
Ideally, I would use Colour Lock Leather Cleaner followed by one of their protectants. But seeing as I'm only allowed one choice here, it Bowden's Leather Love as it is a combined cleaner/conditioner. It can also be tailored, use as a spray and wipe for light cleaning, or use with a soft brush to ramp up the cleaning ability. Leaves a clean, matte finish.

9. Interior Protectant - Carpro InnerQD
I stopped using an interior protect a long time ago now. InnerQD is a happy medium, offering just enough cleaning ability, while also leaving a mild form of protection behind. This product leaves the interior plastics with a clean, matte, factory look and finish.

10. Quick Detailer - P&S Paint Gloss
Smells great, extremely easy to use, can be used on all surfaces including glass, paint, plastics and interior surfaces. Would serve duty as a drying aid and as a clay bar lubricant too.

BONUS CHOICE - Koch Chemie Green Star
I'm adding this because I think this would be a non-negotiable inclusion. An APC can be diluted up and down to suit interior cleaning, added to soap to increase cleaning ability, cleaning engines bays, cleaning carpets, cleaning rubber cargo mats.

Thanks Deyon, an interesting read and list of your favourites, much appreciated!

I will have to give some of those products I have not tried myself a go sometime!