Using a clay mitt to wash a car is not recommended as a primary washing tool. Instead, clay mitts are designed for a different purpose in the car detailing process. Here’s a breakdown of how to properly use a clay mitt and its intended function:

1. Purpose of a Clay Mitt: A clay mitt is primarily used to remove bonded contaminants from the vehicle's surface after it has been washed. It is not meant to replace a traditional wash mitt for cleaning the car. Instead, it should be used after the car has been thoroughly washed and rinsed to ensure that no large particles are present that could scratch the paint during the claying process.

2. Washing Before Claying: Before using a clay mitt, you should wash your car with a suitable car shampoo to remove dirt and grime. This step is crucial to prevent any debris from scratching the paint when you use the clay mitt.

3. Using the Clay Mitt: After washing, you can use the clay mitt with a lubricant (like a clay lubricant spray or a mixture of car shampoo and water) to glide over the surface of the car. This helps to lift and remove embedded contaminants from the paint .

4. Benefits of Clay Mitts: Clay mitts can be more convenient than traditional clay bars, as they cover a larger surface area and can be reused multiple times, making them a practical choice for detailing.

Conclusion

In summary, while you can use a clay mitt as part of the car detailing process, it should not be used as a washing tool. Always wash your car first, then use the clay mitt to decontaminate the surface. This method will help maintain the integrity of your vehicle's paint and ensure a smooth finish.

Here are some images of clay mitts for reference: