When you walk into the auto parts store you are bombarded with a shelf full of products called 'wax'. The term has also found it's way into detailing terminology as a verb, that is: to apply wax. While the term wax can be used generically to define a last step protectant, many detailers will be a little more choosy in their use of the term. You may hear them say they are going to 'seal' your car rather than 'wax' it. We'll discuss sealants in a future article, today we fill focus on the product most people THINK they are apply to their car.

Here's the deal though, with a few exception, what you find in the auto parts store isn't a pure wax. There's really no way to get a 'pure' wax. Pure carnauba wax comes as flakes and is as hard as concrete, you'd never be able to apply or remove it. So what we mean by 'pure' is a product that doesn't contain any dedicated cleaners. Look carefully at the label next time, there's a good chance your container says 'cleaner wax'. While this isn't a bad thing, it's important to recognize that a cleaner wax is actually a form of an all-in-one. It's good at cleaning paint and good and protecting it, but not great at either. A cleaner wax is a good product to use if your paint has oxidation or embedded soiling and you want to combine the steps of deep cleaning the paint and protecting it in one. But if the paint is in good condition or you've polished the paint with a dedicated polish, then the cleaner wax is a wasted step.

Carnauba wax in general does not have great durability, it will normally last about 4-6 weeks depending on your environment, and is not very resistant to chemicals. What it lacks in durability, it makes up for with it's looks. It's often described at a warm, wet glow and many other types of protectants strive to achieve this look. In reality, you would be hard pressed to see the difference between a sealant and wax side by side, but that subtle difference does exist. It's important to remember that the 95% of the looks is in the prep rather than the protectant. To complicate matters, even most waxes today have some sealant mixed in to increase durability and that can take away from the subtle difference in looks.

There is no right or wrong protectant to use on your own car. If you have the time to regularly apply a carnauba wax to your car, then by all means do so, many people consider waxing as their therapy. I generally recommend a carnauba wax for show cars and garage queens. Waxes will last much longer on these vehicles and take them over-the-top in looks.

If you do decide that a wax is what you prefer, make sure you look carefully for a pure carnauba wax rather than a cleaner wax. There are many great options out there and I've listed a few of my favorites below.

Son1c Wax Carnaubavore
Dodo Juice
Pinnacle Signature Series II
Poorboy's World Natty's Red Paste wax

For some people have a detail done is a regular occurrence, but for most it's a special event. Once your vehicle has been detailed, it's essentially to keep up with regular wash and waxes to maintain the condition. Frequent washing also limits bonded surface contaminants that require more effort to remove. Below is some general guidance for washing and waxing.

Always use the two bucket method for washing. Using grit guards further reduces the risk of wash induced swirls.
Dry your car with the sheeting method or a dedicated leaf blower. Your neighbors may think you're crazy, but your car will look way better than theirs.
After major drying apply a spray wax while removing the last few drops of water to add lubrication and achieve that 'just detailed look'.
Decontaminate your vehicle on a regular basis with detailing clay or a clay alternative.
Look for a pure wax or sealant rather than a cleaner wax. They tend to last longer and are easier to apply and remove. Use the cleaner wax to deep clean and protect the paint in one step on a less frequent basis.

Wax Primer

Basic Wash & Wax Tips