Car detailing enthusiasts know that the cornerstone of a spotless car is the humble towel. Whether you’re scrubbing windshields, waxing the exterior, or cleaning up the interior, the right towel can make all the difference. Larry Kosilla, a professional detailer, has shared his expertise on the top three towels every car owner should have in their detailing arsenal. In this episode of ‘Details,’ Kosilla breaks down the science of microfiber towels, explaining the blend and density of fibers crucial for different cleaning tasks.
Firstly, the low GSM window towel is highlighted for its scrubbing power on dirty windshields. These waffle weave towels range between 200 to 300 GSM with a 70/30 polyester to polyamide blend, making them perfect for tackling grime without causing streaks. Kosilla emphasizes that these should be washed separately to avoid cross-contamination. Another essential is the versatile paint towel. With a GSM of 300 to 400, these towels effectively pick up wax and sealant, dry the paint, and clean interior surfaces. Kosilla cautions against using super plush towels on paint due to their tendency to stick and fold. Finally, thin, low pile towels are recommended for the dirtiest areas like engines and exhaust tips—think of these as the ‘throwaway’ towels.
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The Power of Low GSM Window Towels
Larry Kosilla, a professional car detailer, emphasizes the importance of the low GSM window towel for scrubbing dirty windshields. These towels, typically ranging between 200 to 300 GSM and featuring a 70/30 polyester to polyamide blend, are designed for effective grime removal without leaving streaks. Kosilla refers to these towels as ‘waffle weave,’ a texture that enhances their scrubbing capabilities.
Care is paramount when using and maintaining these towels. Kosilla advises washing these towels separately from others to avoid cross-contamination which can result in streaky glass. As someone passionate about car detailing, ensuring that your window towels are in optimal condition will greatly enhance your cleaning experience.
Versatility of Paint Towels
When it comes to paintwork, Kosilla suggests using towels with a medium-level GSM, specifically between 300 and 400. These paint towels strike a balance between absorption and scrubbing action, making them ideal for various tasks such as picking up wax and sealant, drying paint, and cleaning interior surfaces like leather and plastic.
Kosilla warns against using super plush towels on paint because their extra-long fibers can fold over and stick to the paint, making them difficult to maneuver. Instead, opting for medium GSM towels will ensure a smoother and more effective cleaning process. This versatility makes paint towels an essential addition to any car detailer’s toolkit.
The Utility of Thin, Low Pile Towels
For the dirtiest areas of your car, such as the engine bay, door and hood jams, wheels, and exhaust tips, Kosilla recommends thin, low pile towels. These towels usually have a lower GSM and are less dense, which makes them less suitable for delicate surfaces like paint but perfect for grimier tasks.
These towels are often the most economical option, and Kosilla suggests treating them as ‘throwaway’ towels due to the heavy dirt and grime they collect. While they can be washed and reused for less critical tasks, their primary role is to tackle the nastiest cleaning jobs, after which they can be discarded or downgraded to shop towels.
Microfiber Towel Maintenance Tips
Microfiber towels have revolutionized car detailing, but maintaining them properly is crucial for their effectiveness. Kosilla underscores the importance of removing any tags from new microfiber towels to prevent micro-marring on the car’s clear coat. These small but significant details can make a big difference in maintaining a flawless finish.
Additionally, segregating towels based on their use and washing them separately can prevent cross-contamination. This practice is vital for preserving the integrity of each towel type, whether it’s used for windows, paint, or dirty areas. Proper care not only extends the life of the towels but also ensures optimal performance in every detailing task.
Microfiber towels are undeniably a game-changer in the realm of car detailing. Their varied GSM ratings and fiber blends play crucial roles in different cleaning tasks, from ensuring streak-free windows to detailing delicate paint surfaces and tackling the dirtiest parts of the vehicle. Choosing the right towel for the job not only enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the detailing process but also helps maintain the vehicle’s pristine condition.
Proper maintenance of these towels is equally vital. Washing them separately and removing any tags can prevent potential damage to the car’s surface. Segregating towels based on their use ensures that each type remains uncontaminated and functions optimally for its intended purpose. By following these guidelines, car enthusiasts can maximize the lifespan and performance of their microfiber towels, making every detailing job a breeze.
In essence, the right microfiber towel can significantly elevate the quality of car detailing efforts. Whether you’re a professional detailer or a car enthusiast, understanding the specific uses and maintenance techniques for your towels can lead to a more polished and professional finish. Investing in a variety of microfiber towels tailored to different tasks is an investment in the longevity and appearance of your vehicle.
