How to Clean Tires Before Applying Dressing – Pro Tips
Want your tire dressing to last longer and look better? It all starts with proper tire prep — here’s how to clean tires before applying dressing the right way.
Why Cleaning Tires Matters
Most people skip proper tire cleaning — and that’s why their dressing doesn’t last:
- 🚫 Grease and old dressing cause streaks
- 🚫 Dirt prevents dressing from bonding
- 🚫 Sidewall browning ruins the look
- 🚫 Dressing slings off the tire if not properly prepped
👉 The secret to great-looking tires is in the prep — and it only takes a few minutes.
What You’ll Need
- Pure Magic Cleaner — tire + wheel cleaner
- Medium-stiff tire brush
- Pressure washer or hose
- Drying towel
- All Dressed Up — tire dressing
- All Blacked Out Applicators — for perfect dressing application
Step 1: Initial Rinse
✅ Rinse your tires thoroughly with water — this helps loosen surface dirt and grime.
Step 2: Apply Tire Cleaner
✅ Spray Pure Magic Cleaner liberally onto the tire sidewall. ✅ Allow it to dwell for 30–60 seconds.
Pro Tip: You’ll likely see brown or dirty runoff — that’s old dressing, brake dust, and tire blooming being lifted.
Step 3: Scrub
✅ Use a medium-stiff tire brush to scrub the entire sidewall in circular motions. ✅ Pay special attention to edges and raised lettering.
You’ll likely need 2–3 passes on neglected tires — keep scrubbing until the suds rinse clear.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
✅ Rinse the tire completely to remove all cleaner and residue.
Pro Tip: If your rinse water is still dirty or brown, repeat the cleaning process.
Step 5: Dry Completely
✅ Dry the tire fully with a towel or let air dry. ✅ Dressing won’t bond to a wet surface — proper drying is key for long-lasting results.
Step 6: Apply Dressing
✅ Apply All Dressed Up with an All Blacked Out Applicator.
✅ Spread evenly across the entire sidewall using thin coats. ✅ Allow to dry fully before driving.
Pro Tip: For a deeper finish, apply two thin coats rather than one heavy coat — this prevents sling and improves durability.
Final Thoughts
👉 Proper tire prep = better results every time:
- ✅ Dressing lasts longer
- ✅ No streaks or sling
- ✅ Rich, even finish
- ✅ Tires stay cleaner longer
Here’s my proven tire prep system:
- ✅ Pure Magic Cleaner — clean and prep
- ✅ Medium-stiff tire brush
- ✅ Dry completely
- ✅ All Dressed Up — tire dressing
- ✅ All Blacked Out Applicators — apply perfectly
Clean your tires right — and your dressing will look better and last longer, every time.
