Best Microfiber Towels for Applying Ceramic Coatings
Applying a ceramic coating is one of the most rewarding steps in car care. But even the best coating can be ruined by the wrong towel. The microfiber towel you choose plays a major role in how evenly the coating applies, how easy it is to level, and whether you end up with streak-free, glossy results. In this guide, we’ll break down the best microfiber towels for ceramic coatings, why they matter, and how to use them correctly.
Why Towels Matter When Applying Ceramic Coatings
A ceramic coating chemically bonds to paint and provides long-lasting protection. Once applied, it begins curing almost immediately. That’s why leveling—spreading the product evenly before it hardens—is crucial. The towel you use determines how evenly you can move the product across the surface.
What Makes a Good Coating Towel?
Not all microfiber towels are safe for ceramic coatings. Here’s what to look for:
- Low Lint: Towels must not shed fibers, which can get trapped in the coating.
- Soft, Edgeless Design: Prevents scratching delicate clear coats.
- Medium GSM (300–600): Enough plushness to absorb excess product, but not too thick that it drags.
- Durability: Towels need to hold up through multiple panels without smearing.
Recommended Towels for Ceramic Coatings
1. Softer Than Soft Microfiber Towel
The Softer Than Soft Microfiber is the ideal towel for coating application. At 550 GSM, it’s plush enough to glide smoothly yet not overly thick. Its edgeless design makes it safe for the most delicate paints.
2. Everyday Microfiber Towel (Backup)
While the Everyday Microfiber Towel isn’t the first choice for final leveling, it’s excellent for secondary wipe-downs and less sensitive panels. At ~300 GSM, it’s lightweight and versatile.
3. Suede Applicator Cloths
For the actual application step, suede cloths wrapped around a foam block are commonly used. These aren’t for leveling, but they help lay down the initial layer of coating. Always follow with microfiber to spread evenly.
Get the Right Towels for Ceramic Coatings
The Softer Than Soft Microfiber Towel is the perfect choice for safe, streak-free ceramic coating application and leveling.
Shop Softer Than Soft Shop The Gloss Boss CoatingComparison: Towel Options for Ceramic Coatings
| Towel Type | Pros | Cons | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Softer Than Soft (550 GSM) | Plush, safe, streak-free | Higher cost | Final leveling |
| Everyday Microfiber (~300 GSM) | Affordable, versatile | Not as soft for delicate paint | Backup wipe-downs |
| Suede Cloths | Perfect for applying coating evenly | Not absorbent, single-use | Initial coating application |
How to Use Towels During Coating
- Apply coating with suede cloth on a foam block.
- Immediately level the coating with a Softer Than Soft towel using light pressure.
- Flip towels often to avoid smearing.
- Use a fresh towel when one becomes saturated.
- Dispose of towels after coating—ceramic hardens and can scratch on next use.
Pro Tips for Coating Towels
- Always keep multiple towels on hand—one isn’t enough for a full car.
- Work in small sections (2x2 ft) to avoid high spots.
- Inspect paint under strong light immediately after leveling.
- Store towels in a sealed bag until use to avoid contamination.
Pair the Right Towels with the Right Coating
Using Softer Than Soft Towels with The Gloss Boss Ceramic Coating ensures professional-grade results that last.
Shop Softer Than Soft Shop The Gloss BossCommon Mistakes When Choosing Coating Towels
- Using cheap microfiber: Low-quality towels lint, scratch, and smear coatings.
- Reusing coating towels: Once coating cures in a towel, it becomes stiff and unsafe.
- Using high GSM towels only: Extremely plush towels may drag or leave streaks—medium GSM is best.
Real-World Example
A Jimbo’s customer tried applying ceramic coating with generic microfiber towels. The result? Streaks, lint, and uneven gloss. After switching to Softer Than Soft Towels for leveling, they achieved a perfect, streak-free shine. Combined with The Gloss Boss coating, their car looked better than brand new.
Extra Q&A on Coating Towels
Q: How many towels do I need for one coating job?
A: At least 6–8 towels. Once saturated, towels stop working effectively and can leave streaks.
Q: Can I wash and reuse coating towels?
A: No. Once a towel absorbs ceramic coating, the cured residue hardens and can scratch paint. Always discard them.
Q: Should I use high GSM towels for leveling?
A: Medium GSM (300–600) is ideal. Softer Than Soft at 550 GSM is perfect for balancing absorbency and smooth glide.
