What Pad Should You Use for Polishing Black Paint?
Choosing the right polishing pad can be the difference between a deep gloss and a hazy mess—especially on black paint. In this guide, I’ll show you exactly which pads work best, what to avoid, and how to get swirl-free results.
🎥 Watch: How to Polish Black Paint Without Swirls
Best Pad for Polishing Black Paint
For most situations, a soft foam pad will give you the best finish on black paint. My go-to options are:
- Burgundy foam pad – Great balance of cut and finish
- Black foam pad – Ultra-soft for final polishing and deep gloss
These pads are ideal when paired with a polish like Picture Perfect Polish, which finishes clean without haze.
Pads to Avoid on Black Paint
- Microfiber cutting pads: Can leave haze or marring if not followed with a finishing step
- Wool pads: Too aggressive unless you’re doing heavy correction, not ideal for daily use
- Dirty pads: Always use a clean pad—dirty foam = swirl city
💡 Pro Tip: Always clean your pad between sections with compressed air, a pad brush, or a microfiber towel to avoid caking up polish and scratching the surface.
How to Pick the Right Pad for Your Situation
If the black paint is in decent shape and just needs gloss enhancement, go straight to a finishing pad. If there are light swirls or oxidation, a medium foam pad will give you more correction without compromising finish quality.
If the paint is really bad, you can start with microfiber—but be ready to follow it with a soft foam pad to clean up haze.
Recommended Products
- Picture Perfect Polish – Finishes clean even with medium or soft pads
- Softer Than Soft Microfiber Towels – Safe for wiping polish off black paint
- The Super Soaper – Use before polishing to reduce the risk of swirls
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