Claying Your Glass Tomorrow: Tips and Advice

Claying your car's glass surfaces is a great way to remove embedded contaminants like water spots, tree sap, and industrial fallout that regular cleaning might miss. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:

Materials You'll Need:

• Clay Bar or Clay Mitt: A medium-grade clay is suitable for glass surfaces.
• Clay Lubricant: Use a dedicated clay lubricant or a quick detailing spray.
• Microfiber Towels: For wiping and drying the glass.
• Glass Cleaner: To clean the glass before and after claying.
• Buckets and Car Wash Soap (Optional): If you plan to wash the car beforehand.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Pre-Clean the Glass

• Wash Your Car: Start by washing your car to remove surface dirt and grime.Focus on the glass areas to ensure they're as clean as possible before claying.
• Dry the Glass: Use a clean microfiber towel to dry the glass completely.

2. Inspect the Glass Surface

• Feel for Contaminants: Run your hand over the glass to feel for rough spots or bumps. For a more sensitive feel, put your hand inside a plastic sandwich bag and gently glide it over the glass.

3. Prepare the Clay Bar

• Knead the Clay: Take a piece of the clay bar and knead it until it's soft and pliable. Flatten it into a disc shape that fits comfortably in your hand.

4. Lubricate the Glass

• Apply Clay Lubricant: Generously spray the clay lubricant onto a small section of the glass. It's important to keep the area well-lubricated to prevent scratching.

5. Clay the Glass

• Glide the Clay Bar: Gently move the clay bar over the lubricated area in straight lines. Use light pressure; let the clay do the work.
• Check the Clay: Periodically inspect the clay for dirt. Fold and knead the clay to expose a clean surface when it becomes dirty.

6. Wipe and Inspect

• Clean the Area: After claying a section, wipe off any excess lubricant with a microfiber towel.
• Inspect for Smoothness: Run your hand over the area to ensure it's smooth. Repeat the claying process if necessary.

7. Repeat the Process

• Continue Section by Section:  Work your way around the car, claying all the glass surfaces.  Always keep the area you're working on well-lubricated.

8. Final Clean

• Use Glass Cleaner: Once all glass surfaces have been clayed, clean them with a glass cleaner to remove any remaining residue.
• Dry Thoroughly: Use a fresh microfiber towel to dry the glass for a streak-free finish.

9. Optional: Apply a Glass Sealant

• Protect Your Work: Consider applying a glass sealant or rain repellent to enhance clarity and make future cleaning easier. Follow the product instructions for application.

Additional Tips:

• Work in the Shade: Avoid claying in direct sunlight to prevent the lubricant from drying too quickly.
• Stay Organized: Keep your clay bar and lubricant within easy reach to maintain a steady workflow.
• Avoid Dropping the Clay: If you drop the clay bar, it's best to discard it to prevent picked-up debris from scratching the glass.
• Gentle Pressure Is Key: Excessive force isn't necessary and can cause scratches.
• Glove Up: Wearing gloves can keep your hands clean and improve grip.

Benefits of Claying Your Glass:

• Improved Visibility: Removes contaminants that can distort your view.
• Smooth Surface: Enhances the effectiveness of windshield wipers.
• Enhanced Appearance: Gives the glass a crystal-clear look.
• Preparation for Sealants: Ensures better adhesion of any protective coatings applied afterward.

By following these steps, you'll achieve a cleaner, smoother glass surface that not only looks great but also enhances your driving experience. Enjoy your detailing session tomorrow!