A clay bar (or clay mitt) is a highly effective tool for removing contaminants like overspray, brake dust, road tar, and industrial fallout from a car's paint and glass surfaces. It's safe to use on both paintwork and glass when used properly with a clay lubricant. Here's how to use a clay bar on both surfaces:

Materials You'll Need:

• Clay bar or clay mitt
• Clay lubricant (or detailing spray)
• Microfiber towels
• Car wash soap and water

Steps for Using a Clay Bar on Paint:

1. Wash the Car:

   Thoroughly wash your car with a quality car wash soap to remove surface dirt and debris.Dry the car using microfiber towels to prevent new contaminants from adhering to the surface.

2. Prepare the Clay Bar:

   Break off a small piece of the clay bar (if using a bar). Knead it into a flat, round shape.If using a clay mitt, simply wear the mitt on your hand and make sure it’s clean and pliable.

3. Apply Clay Lubricant:

   Spray clay lubricant generously onto a small section of the car’s paintwork. This step is crucial to prevent the clay from sticking to the surface and causing scratches.

4. Use the Clay Bar:

   Gently glide the clay bar or mitt over the lubricated area in a back-and-forth motion (not circular). Apply light pressure.You’ll feel the clay bar catch slightly as it picks up contaminants. Once it moves smoothly, the area is clean.

5. Wipe the Area:

   Wipe off any excess clay lubricant with a clean microfiber towel. The surface should feel smooth to the touch.

6. Repeat:

   Continue this process over the rest of the car, working in small sections.

7. Inspect the Clay:

   Periodically check the clay for dirt. If it becomes too contaminated, fold it to reveal a clean side, or replace the clay if necessary.

8. Wax or Seal:

   After claying, it’s important to apply a coat of car wax or sealant to protect the paint and restore shine.

Steps for Using a Clay Bar on Glass:

1. Clean the Glass:

   Wash the glass surface with car wash soap and water to remove surface dirt and grime. Dry the glass with a microfiber towel.

2. Prepare the Clay:

   Knead the clay bar into a flat shape, similar to how you’d use it on paint.

3. Lubricate the Glass:

   Spray clay lubricant or a glass cleaner onto the glass. Make sure the surface stays well-lubricated.

4. Clay the Glass:

   Move the clay bar over the glass in straight lines, using the same technique as on the paint. You’ll notice the clay removing stubborn contaminants like water spots, tree sap, and industrial fallout.

5. Wipe Down the Glass:

   Once you’ve finished claying the glass, wipe off the residue with a clean microfiber towel.

6. Inspect for Smoothness:

   Run your hand over the glass surface. It should feel smooth and free of contaminants.

7. Apply Glass Cleaner:

   To finish, use a glass cleaner to remove any leftover clay lubricant and give the glass a crystal-clear shine.

Tips:

• Use plenty of lubricant: This prevents the clay from sticking and potentially marring the surface.
• Do not drop the clay: If the clay bar falls on the ground, discard it, as it may pick up debris that can scratch your car.
• Work in small sections: This ensures that the clay doesn’t dry out and that you can focus on fully cleaning each area.

A clay bar treatment leaves both paint and glass surfaces feeling silky smooth and contaminant-free, creating a better foundation for waxing and detailing.