A clay bar towel, often referred to as a clay towel or clay mitt, is a detailing tool used in automotive care to remove embedded contaminants from a vehicle's paint surface. Here are some key points about what a clay bar towel does:

1. Contaminant Removal: The primary function of a clay towel is to lift and remove contaminants such as dirt, tar, tree sap, and industrial fallout that regular washing may not eliminate. This process helps restore the smoothness of the paint surface, making it feel silky to the touch.

2. Speed and Efficiency: Clay towels typically have a larger surface area compared to traditional clay bars, allowing for quicker coverage of the vehicle. This means you can detail a car in a shorter amount of time, making it a more efficient option for detailers.

3. Reusability: Unlike traditional clay bars, which can only be used a limited number of times before they become contaminated, clay towels are designed to be reusable. They can often be used on multiple vehicles (up to about 50 cars) before needing to be replaced.

4. Ease of Use: Clay towels are generally easier to handle than clay bars, especially in tight spaces. They can be used with a clay lubricant or a mixture of water and car wash soap to ensure a smooth gliding motion over the paint.

5. Preparation for Waxing or Polishing: After using a clay towel, the paint surface is left smooth and ready for further treatments like waxing or polishing, which enhances the vehicle's shine and protection.

Images of Clay Bar Towels

Here are some images of clay bar towels to give you a better idea of what they look like: