Walmart has microfiber towesl for 5 bucks for five and a drying one thats large 36 inches by 24 for 7 bucks. I tried them out today and they seem just as good as any of the other ones I have used.

 

I bought a package of MF towels (a dozen, I think) at Costco for about $8.

These are the higher quality 20/80 blend made in China. I liked them at first. But then I started noticing some micro-scratches on my black MCS.

So I've gone back to using extremely soft flannel polishing cloths (which, btw, I bought at Walmart). I go through lots of flannel cloths during the drying process but at least they don't scratch the paint...

 

Been using micro fiber for two years no scratches on two cars. I Always dry with a California water blade first then follow up with quick detailer and micro fiber. Flannel is fine if you don't get a dirt particle trapped. Micro fiber like terry towels give the dirt or scratching particles some space to work into the towel and not be pushed against the paint.

From Meguiars -

Always use a microfiber polishing cloth like the Meguigar's "Ultimate Wipe" or a 100% cotton, terry cloth towel for removing cleaners, polishes and waxes. Microfiber polishing cloths and terry cloth towels have a "nap", (the little cotton loops), which draw and trap abrasive particles or contaminants on the surface, up into the towel instead of allowing them to scratch the sensitive paint.

 

Are your 2 cars light colored? It is often difficult to detect micro-scratches on light colored finishes. Even on black, you have to view the finish from an angle to make out the fine scratches.

As far as dirt particles, I think if you do a thorough job of washing and dry promptly, they shouldn't be an issue.

Interesting rationale in the tip from Meguiar's though -- one reason I was wary of terry cloth towels when I used to use them is that I figured it was harder to wash grit out of the towel because it would get trapped in the "nap"!

 

The Mini is BRG and my truck is dark metallic blue. Your right if you was your car you should get off the dirt. The problem is most people, I am sure you don't do this, just grab a sponge and scrub their car. That is where most swirl marks come from, a few years ago I was told to use a terry towel mitt or sponge and work my may from the top of the car where it is less dirty to the bottom. Just using back and forth strokes and not going in circles helps too.

I never let anyone including the mini dealer wash my car, I am a little obsessed. One day when I was at the dealer and told them that I did not want them to wash it this guy behind me said that anyone that was that fanatic about their car was ok with him. He asked if I would like to see his new ride he was picking up and he points to a Z8. He shows me the car asks if I want to go for a spin of course I say yes, halfway out in this awesome Z8 he jumps out and says you drive, I gave him this look like are you kidding and he says "anyone who is that careful about their car being washed is OK by me - now drive the car." It was unbelievable what a car I will never forget that drive.

This of course has only encouraged my manic behavior.

 

csasso:

Great story about the Z8! :smile:

I also ask dealers not to wash my cars. Unfortunately, sometimes they end up washing it anyway because the staff is on auto-pilot.

I have now started taping a "Please Do Not Wash" sign to the steering wheel whenever a car gets serviced. I've been meaning to ask one of my Spanish speaking friends how to make this sign bi-lingual...