Drying a Ceramic Coated Car: What You Need to Know
Drying a ceramic coated car might seem simple, but doing it wrong can leave spots or even reduce the life of the coating. Here’s what you really need to know.
Why Drying Still Matters with Ceramic Coatings
Even though ceramic coatings repel water, that doesn’t mean you can skip drying. Minerals in the water can still leave water spots — and if those sit too long, they can actually etch the coating or the clear coat underneath.
Best Tools for Drying a Coated Car
- Massive Drying Towel — one towel to dry the whole car, no streaks
- Softer Than Soft Towels — perfect for sensitive or dark-colored coatings
- Ryobi Blower — touchless, effective, especially for trim and tight areas
Quick Tips for Safe Drying
- Dry in the shade or indoors if possible
- Blow out mirrors, trim, and crevices first
- Use a clean, high-quality towel and pat dry — don’t drag
- Top up your ceramic protection with Tough As Shell every few months
Bonus Tip: Water Behavior Can Show You When It’s Time to Reapply
If water isn’t beading or sheeting like it used to, it might be time for a quick reset and reapplication of your coating. Tough As Shell is a perfect topper and rejuvenator for coated cars.
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Can I let my ceramic coated car air dry?
No. Even coated cars can get water spots from minerals. Always dry your car after washing to prevent etching or residue.
What’s the best towel for drying a ceramic coated car?
The Massive Drying Towel is perfect for most jobs. For black or soft paint, use the Softer Than Soft Towels for extra safety.
