The Complete Guide to Car Detailing Product Types (And What Each One Actually Does)
Confused about what all those detailing products actually do? This guide breaks it down — simple, clear, and beginner-friendly.
1. Pre-Wash & Soaps
Start every wash with a good pre-soak. A foam cannon soap like The Super Soaper helps break down grime before you touch the paint, reducing the chance of scratching.
2. Contact Wash Tools
Use plush microfiber towels like the Orange Wash Microfiber Towel and dry with the Massive Drying Towel for swirl-free results.
3. Surface Prep
After washing, it’s time to prep the surface. Clay bars or mitts remove bonded contaminants. Then polish or compound if needed — Picture Perfect Polish combines both in one easy step.
4. Paint Protection Options
Protect your clean surface with a ceramic spray like Tough As Shell or go for long-term durability with Gloss Boss, a wipe-on pro-grade ceramic coating.
5. Interior Detailing Products
Use a safe all-surface cleaner like Complete Cabin Cleaner for everything from dashboards to door panels. It leaves a clean, OEM matte finish with no streaks.
6. Dressings for Tires, Trim, & Engine Bays
Want that perfect, non-greasy finish? All Dressed Up delivers an OEM matte look to plastic, rubber, tires, and trim — and works great under the hood too.
7. Specialty Products
- Scrub Buddy Pads: Ideal for textured interior surfaces
- Air Freshies: Instant citrus scent boost for your cabin
- Applicator Pads: For streak-free dressing or coating application
Final Thoughts
Understanding car detailing products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Now you know what each category does — and when to use it. If you want to skip the guesswork, check out the Everything Bundle to get one of everything and start detailing with confidence.
