Should You Clay Bar Your Car?
If your car’s paint feels rough after washing—even when it looks clean—it might be time to clay it. But should you use a clay bar or a clay mitt? Let’s break it down.
In this post, I’ll explain when claying is necessary, the difference between a clay bar and clay mitt, and how to use either one without damaging your paint.
✅ Clay Only When Needed: Use the plastic bag test to check
✅ Foam Before Claying: Use The Super Soaper as clay lube
✅ Finish With Protection: Lock in results with Tough As Shell
What Does Claying Actually Do?
Even after washing, your paint can hold on to contaminants like:
- Rail dust
- Tree sap
- Brake dust
- Overspray
Claying removes these bonded particles and leaves the surface smooth, which is critical before polishing or applying ceramic coating.
Clay Mitt vs. Clay Bar – What’s the Difference?
- Clay Bar: Great for precision and smaller areas. Can be dropped and ruined.
- Clay Mitt: Faster, reusable, and ideal for larger panels.
I prefer a clay mitt for most situations—especially when paired with a high-lubricity soap like The Super Soaper.
How to Know When Your Car Needs Claying
- Wash and rinse your vehicle
- Put your hand in a plastic sandwich bag
- Lightly glide over the paint
- If it feels bumpy, it’s time to clay
Watch: Clay Bar vs. Clay Mitt Comparison
Best Practices for Claying Your Car
- Foam the car with The Super Soaper and let it dwell
- While the foam is still wet, gently glide the clay mitt or clay bar across the surface
- Work in straight lines, not circles
- Rinse off the panel after each section
Finish With a Ceramic Sealant
Claying leaves the paint bare and vulnerable. That’s why it’s the perfect time to seal the surface with Tough As Shell—an easy spray-on ceramic coating that adds protection and gloss instantly.
FAQs
Should I clay my car every wash?
No. Claying is only necessary when you feel bonded contaminants on the paint. Overdoing it can wear down clear coat unnecessarily.
Can claying scratch the paint?
Yes—if done without lubrication. That’s why it’s crucial to foam the panel first with a slick soap like The Super Soaper.
Which is better: clay mitt or clay bar?
A clay mitt is faster and reusable, while a clay bar is better for tight or stubborn spots. Both work great with proper lubrication.
