The Beginner’s Guide to Building Your Own Car Detailing Kit

If you’re just getting into car detailing, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. There are hundreds of products, dozens of brands, and tons of conflicting advice.

The truth is, you don’t need 37 bottles and 12 types of towels to get started. You just need a solid, well-rounded kit that covers the basics—wash, clean, and protect.

Here’s a no-nonsense guide to building your first car detailing kit.

1. A Safe, Effective Car Soap

You want something that foams well, is pH-neutral, and won’t strip your protection. That’s why we recommend The Super Soaper.

Use it with a bucket, foam cannon, or pump sprayer
Safe on ceramic coatings, wax, and trim

2. High-Quality Microfiber Towels

Invest in a few good towels—it makes all the difference. Start with:

Everyday Microfiber Towels – general use
Massive Drying Towel – for fast, streak-free drying

3. Interior All-Surface Cleaner

Skip the greasy dashboard sprays and harsh all-purpose cleaners. You need something safe for everything—leather, plastic, rubber, and screens.

Complete Cabin Cleaner does all that without shine or residue.

4. Spray-On Paint Protection

Protect your paint without the hassle of a full ceramic coating or wax. Tough As Shell gives you water beading, UV protection, and gloss with just a few sprays.

Apply every few weeks for best results
Use after every wash for quick maintenance

5. Tire & Trim Dressing

Want your tires and plastic trim to look fresh? Avoid greasy, shiny dressings that sling everywhere. Use All Dressed Up for a dry-to-the-touch, satin finish.

Optional: Clay Bar or Mitt

If your paint feels rough after washing, you can add a clay mitt to remove embedded contamination. Just use it with soapy water or foam from your wash.

How to Bundle It Smart

You can grab these items individually, or check out our starter bundles to save a little money and get everything in one shot.

Conclusion

You don’t need to overthink it. Start with the basics, learn your process, and build up over time. The right tools make it easier, safer, and a lot more satisfying.

🧼 Beginner-Friendly Products to Start With:

Start simple. Stay consistent. And your car will always look better than the guy next to you.