If you're just starting out, I'd stick to one brand for the majority of your products, as they're usually all developed to work together, and that's simple. People here all tend to swear by one product or another, but most of the long-time detailing guys will tell you that almost any of the name-brands will do a great job, and will CERTAINLY be far preferable to a basic, occasional wash. I personally went with Maguiars, mainly because I was able to purchase products one-by-one over several weeks at local stores like Wal Mart or Auto Zone, but really any brand (Zaino, Detailers Paradise, Griot's, etc.) will make your baby look fantastic.
Whatever brand you decide on, what you want to start with are:
* Car wash solution
* Detail spray
* Wax - a synthetic like Meguiar's NXT will last longer than a carnuba-based wax like Gold Class, but migght not look as "wet" as carnuba. For non-pros, you probably won't even notice the difference, however... I prefer liquid wax because it seems easier to apply.
* Bucket (or two, if you have the funds), with Grit Guard
* Lamb's wool wash mit (real wool, not synthetic)
* Wheel rim cleaner (removes tough brake dust)
*Wheel cleaning brush
* Several 100% cotton, USA-made white towels
* Microfiber polishing cloths (buy the good ones like Detailers Paradise sells and avoid the cheap-o $3 ones you get from the auto parts store)
* Interior detailing spray
* Leather kit (if you have a leather interior)
* Glass cleaner (I just use Windex and like it better than the high-end stuff I've tried, honestly - just don't use amonia-based cleaners if you get the windows tinted).
If you want to go to the next level:
*Clay bar - used to clean contaminents from paint
* Polishing compound - like Meguiar'as ColorX - used to remove scratches and swirl marks from paint
* Random Orbital polisher - like a Porter Cable - the true fanatic's tool... Don't even try one out unless you mean to buy one, as they're the crack cocaine of detailing tools.
Of course, if you need tips on using any of the above, start with a forum search here (I think I've asked every stupid question in the book - some more than once, actually) or ask - this is a friendly, helpful bunch!
As for time, I spend about 2 hours a week between all my detailing, vacuuming, washing and polishing - WAY more than I EVER did on any other car I've had. the MINI is so small, honestly, it's not work, it's fun (for me, anyway). I spend about 15 minutes every few days using detail spray on the exterior and interior, then wash the car fully every week or two, tops. I save waxing for a monthly thing (sometuimes I just do high-dirt areas like the rear or the doors to save time) and things like clay barring and polishing with the Porter Cable for my twice-yearly regime. Some people do FAR more work than I do, but since I garage keep my car it doesn;t seem to get as dirty.
I don't have a bra, so I can't comment, other thhan to say that my car (purchased earlier this season) already has some small chips on the bonnet, so even well-maintained cars are NOT immune!
