The Truth About DIY and CLEAN Polish Residue – Same Polish, Different Label?
We tested DIY Gold Standard Polish and CLEAN by Pan Spray Polish side by side. Not only did both leave similar sticky residue, but the polishing experience felt identical. Could they be the same formula with different branding?
Sticky Residue That Fights You
Both DIY and CLEAN polishes require a damp towel to remove the residue. This alone is a red flag—any polish that needs added moisture just to wipe off risks reintroducing swirls, especially on soft black paint.
Even after a second wipe, we still noticed light haze and drag on the towel. That’s not a professional result—it’s a workaround.
Same Polish… Just Rebranded?
In our testing, the work time, cutting ability, and residue behavior of DIY Gold Standard Polish and CLEAN by Pan Spray Polish were virtually identical. Both flashed quickly, both struggled to finish clean, and both left that same tacky wipe-off.
We’re not here to speculate on business deals—but from a user standpoint, they performed the same in every key area. That begs the question: are they just private-labeled versions of the same thing?
Why Picture Perfect Polish Avoids All This
Picture Perfect Polish was built from the ground up—not relabeled, not rushed, and not reliant on gimmicks. It was designed to finish clear on even the most sensitive black paint, and it wipes off dry with no haze or residue.
Pair it with a Black Finishing Pad or Burgundy Cut & Finish Pad and remove with a Softer Than Soft Microfiber — you’ll see the difference immediately.
The Verdict
Sticky residue, confusing wipe methods, and possible rebranding aren’t what most detailers want in a polish. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a pro, using a polish that was actually made for black paint makes your job faster, easier, and safer.
Picture Perfect Polish delivers swirl-free results with no guessing and no sticky surprises.
Recommended Products
- Picture Perfect Polish
- Burgundy Cut & Finish Pad
- Black Finishing Pad
- Softer Than Soft Microfiber Towels
Need it on Amazon? Click here for the full lineup.
