Best Ceramic Car Wash Soap – Shine + Protection in One Wash
Ceramic wash soaps add slickness and water beading while you clean. They’re not a replacement for a coating, but they make maintenance easier and glossier. Here’s our pro breakdown of the best ceramic shampoos available.
What makes a ceramic car wash soap different?
Unlike standard car shampoos, ceramic soaps are infused with SiO2 (the same base used in ceramic coatings). The goal isn’t full ceramic protection but rather:
- Boosting hydrophobics: Refreshes water-beading on coated cars.
- Slicker washing: Adds glide between the wash mitt and paint to reduce scratches.
- Gloss enhancement: Leaves the surface brighter than traditional soaps.
- Short-term protection: Helps keep cars cleaner between full details.
Top Ceramic Wash Soaps Compared
| Product | Foam Quality | Slickness | Durability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Soaper Ceramic Wash | Dense foam, works in cannon & bucket | Very slick | 2–3 weeks | Balances clean + ceramic refresh |
| Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Wash | Good foam, medium density | Slick | ~2 weeks | Readily available |
| Chemical Guys Hydro Suds | Foamy, colorful | Decent slickness | ~1–2 weeks | Marketed heavily, less durable |
Our Top Pick: Super Soaper Ceramic Wash
High-foaming, safe on coatings, and boosted with SiO2 for slickness + hydrophobics. Works great in a foam cannon or bucket wash.
When should you use a ceramic wash?
- Coated cars: Perfect maintenance wash to “top up” water behavior.
- Uncoated cars: Adds temporary slickness and gloss between waxes.
- Before topping with a spray ceramic: Preps the surface for maximum bonding.
Pro tips for ceramic soaps
- Don’t skip a rinse bucket—ceramic soaps still need safe wash technique.
- Foam cannon use maximizes cling time and coverage.
- Use warm water to activate suds fully.
- Follow with a drying aid for even slicker finish.
Bundle: Wash + Protect
Pair Super Soaper Ceramic Wash with Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray for a complete wash & protection system.
FAQs
Does ceramic car wash soap replace a ceramic coating?
No—it enhances or maintains, but doesn’t replace a true coating.
Can I use ceramic soap in a foam cannon?
Yes. Most ceramic shampoos are foam cannon safe, and the foam helps them cling longer.
Will ceramic soap strip wax?
No. Ceramic soaps are pH balanced and safe for waxes and coatings.
