Best Soap for Maintaining Ceramic Coatings: What Actually Works
Got a ceramic coating or spray like Tough As Shell on your car? Using the wrong soap could be slowly degrading it. Here's what to use—and what to skip.
Why Regular Car Wash Soap Isn’t Always Safe
Many soaps—including some from popular brands like Chemical Guys Citrus Wash & Gloss—are formulated with degreasers or acidic ingredients. While these help strip heavy dirt, they can also eat away at waxes, sealants, and yes—even ceramic sprays over time.
What You Want in a Coating-Safe Soap
- ✅ pH Neutral – won't break down the chemical bond of your coating
- ✅ High Lubricity – prevents marring or swirl marks during wash
- ✅ No Fillers or Gloss Additives – avoids buildup that reduces coating performance
The Soap We Recommend
The Super Soaper checks all the boxes. It’s pH-neutral, highly lubricated, and designed specifically for maintenance washing of ceramic-coated vehicles. It rinses clean, doesn’t streak, and works in foam cannons, foam guns, or traditional buckets.
How It Compares to Popular Chemical Guys Soaps
| Soap | pH Neutral? | Safe on Coatings? | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr. Pink | Yes | Technically safe, but low lubrication | Light maintenance washes |
| Honeydew Snow Foam | Yes | Safe, but mostly cosmetic foam | Show foam, bucket washes |
| Citrus Wash & Gloss | No | No – can degrade coatings | Wax stripping, heavy prep |
| The Super Soaper | Yes | ✅ Optimized for coatings | Weekly foam cannon or bucket maintenance |
How to Use The Super Soaper for Best Results
- Pre-rinse vehicle thoroughly
- Apply via foam cannon using 2–3 oz per 32oz bottle
- Let dwell for 2–4 minutes
- Agitate with a soft mitt or towel if needed
- Rinse and dry with a high-quality microfiber drying towel
Want to Keep Your Coating Looking New?
Pair your soap with a proper drying process and occasional top-ups using Tough As Shell Ceramic Spray to maintain hydrophobics and longevity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Mr. Pink on a ceramic coating?
Yes, but don’t expect it to enhance or preserve your coating. It’s neutral, but not particularly high in cleaning power or lubrication.
What makes The Super Soaper better for coatings?
It’s optimized for pH neutrality, foam cling, lubrication, and rinsing clean—without stripping or dulling coatings like Tough As Shell.
Should I avoid “gloss-enhancing” soaps?
Yes, for coated cars. These often contain polymers or oils that can dull or block the surface properties of your ceramic coating.
How often should I wash a coated car?
Once per week is ideal using a coating-safe soap like The Super Soaper. Avoid harsh soaps unless you're intentionally stripping protection.
