How to Dry Your Car Without Scratching It
Want a flawless finish? It all comes down to how you dry. Learn how to avoid scratches and water spots by using proper towels and smart drying habits.
Drying Is Where Most Damage Happens
Believe it or not, the drying step is often worse for your paint than washing—especially if you're dragging an old towel or chamois across the surface. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Why Drying Scratches Happen
- Using the wrong towel (too rough or low GSM)
- Applying too much pressure to remove water
- Dragging leftover dirt or minerals across the surface
The Best Way to Dry Your Car
1. Use a Massive, Plush Drying Towel
Switch to the Massive Drying Towel. Its ultra-soft, high-GSM fibers absorb water fast without dragging across the paint.
2. Blot, Don’t Rub
Instead of wiping, gently blot large sections. Let the towel soak up the water with minimal pressure.
3. Add a Blower for Touchless Drying
If you want to level up, use a handheld blower to remove water from crevices, emblems, and mirrors without touching them.
4. Work Top to Bottom
Just like washing, start with the roof and work your way down. This avoids cross-contaminating clean areas.
Pro Tip: Use a Drying Aid
Spray a bit of Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray as you dry. It adds slickness, helps the towel glide, and boosts protection while you work.
The Bottom Line
If you're still using an old bath towel or dragging water across your paint, you're probably scratching it. Upgrade your towel and technique—you’ll see a big difference.
