13 TOP Detailing MISTAKES You Need to Know Now!

[@StaufferGarage]

Because I detail every car on this channel for FREE! Yes Free 😧! Subscribing is the best way to help support me! 👍 SO HIT SUBSCRIBE and join the Stauffer Garage Crew! ✅

[@AntEloftheHouseofEl]

One other tip I have is this: If you want to get around your car in the fastest but safest way, ditch the traditional two bucket method entirely! You'll still need two buckets, but none of this rinse and reload bollocks. Make sure your buckets are big ones, prep your shampoo solution in one of them and then slam 7, 8, 9, 10 or 11 wash mitts in there! One wash mitt per panel! Panel done? Mitt goes into the empty bucket and move onto the next panel with a brand new mitt. Super fast, no rinsing and reloading of your mitt, no risk of dirt transfer at all and you are left with a bucket full of dirty mitts ready to stick straight into your washing machine! You can even do the same with drying towels (buy smaller ones obviously) and/or polishing towels. One towel per panel. Use. Then into the bucket ready for the machine. You'll be a speed demon in absolutely no time at all!

[@Taylor-mi6ou]

This comment section is so wholesome and filled with people who genuinely want to share their tips. Love it

[@albertoguerra3995]

Where's your tips at huh? Huh? HUHH???

[@wilsullivan7147]

@@albertoguerra3995 wheres your?

[@joeb5763]

@@wilsullivan7147 Where's yours? lol Here's a tip when cleaning the interior and the carpet is full of stubborn dog hair. Before you even start mix into a spray bottle: half fabric softener, half water. Shake it up real good then spray over the carpet. This will loosen the little fibers of the carpet and make it a whole lot easier to remove the hair. Plus it smells great.. After a few minutes get a pet hair removal stone like Fur-Zoff and watch as the hair just glides off while you brush the carpet making a pile of pet hair. Remove the piles and finish off with a vacuum. Careful not to scrape the stone on any plastic interior parts as it is very abrasive and will easily leave scratches. You can charge customers extra for this service and they will happily pay since they know how much of a bitch it is to get all the hair out. They don't know the secret 😉

[@buckstop1031]

I'm a former service member. I battle with depression and PTSD. If you have family members that does well- mention car detailing. It is a wonderful tool, and a great side hustle. Getting lost in detailing help clear the brain. My opinion anyway. Good day!

[@fryBREADwarrior]

One pro tip for cleaning windows is to clean in a different direction on the outside versus the inside. That way, if there is a streak, you can easily identify if it's outside or on the inside. And when doing the interior glass, be sure to roll your windows down and get the tops first. And generally, the plastics will already be cleaned, so to avoid overspray on your dash, apply your cleaner directly to your cloth and use another to wipe it dry! Have fun!

[@_that9thgen_]

Smart

[@melaniediaz6177]

Great... U know about it

[@carsanovadidrifto800]

Hey I hope that you are well. Think about this. The God of the Bible, the One True God made You and I to worship him, obey Him, and enjoy Him forever. But You and I break His laws daily. You, like me, are not good at all in the eyes of God. ‘There is no one good, no not even one. (Romans3:10) ‘For all have sinned and fall short of The Glory of God’ (Romans 3:23) You have always done wrong in the eyes of God, this is a problem because Psalm 5:5 reads: ‘...You [GOD] hate all who do wrong.’ ‘But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed.’ Rom 5:5 The person who sins is the one who will die. Ezekiel 18:20 All these things and more are counted against us. God is the just judge of the world and one day He will judge you, and you are guilty. He will settle the score for all the wrongs you've done. God is holy meaning He is righteous (morally perfect in thought, word, and deed) It also means He is set apart and infinitely higher than us. God will punish You for all Your sin or wrongdoing in the world, this is because He is Good and Just Judge. This means that if You sin ONCE, God will cast you in hell for eternity. Because He is good and He doesn't turn a blind eye to sin. So how can God forgive you and me of all our sins? But there is good news. 2000 years ago Jesus the Son of God came into this world and lived a perfect life ( He never sinned once) and He died on the cross taking the wrath that we deserve and paid the penalty for the sins we committed. The bible says that if you will repent (confess and forsake your sins) and trust in what Christ did on the cross OUT OF HIS LOVE FOR YOU-(He took the wrath of God against you for your evil deeds and thoughts). Then all your sins will be forgiven and when you die you will be in heaven with God and all who have believed in The Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is the true Gospel of Jesus: Jesus died( Bore the punishment for your evil sins and heart, so that you can be forgiven. He took your special spot in Hell) and on the third day, He rose from the grave(So that you can have true life and His spot next to The only true God.). Verses: ‘All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by ChristJesus.’ Rom3:24; 'Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.' John 3:18 Get right with God today, don't wait. Once you die after that comes the judgment. It's the most important thing you can do. If you repent and trust in what Christ did on the cross for You then you will be born again. Right now you're dead in your sins and you can't see the beauty of Jesus Christ but after you trust in Christ all the things you hate about God like obeying him, serving Him, loving Him and others, reading the bible, praying, and going to church, you will love to do those things because God changes your heart. That's how you know you have been born again and forgiven. Please think long about this, and most importantly please take at least 5 minutes a day to read the Bible. Start in 'Matthew'. An eternity in hell (darkness and a lake of fire the bible describes it, with weeping and gnashing of teeth) or an eternity in the loving arms of God who is infinitely glorious, has infinite knowledge and has infinite power and love to do all that He pleases. You decide. Truth is independent of human conviction, meaning that what you believe does not change the fact that Jesus is your only Hope

[@zulugang9826]

@@carsanovadidrifto800 I see you 🙌🏾

[@brandonjohnson2493]

Wow thanks

[@grizzlycreek9617]

As a former detailer I have a few suggestions. Clean and vaccum the interior of the car first. No sense in washing the outside, then cleaning the inside to have vacuum dush blow back over the vehicle. Also, nothing sticking out of your pockets when climbing around inside to avoid tearing.

[@jesusislordandsavior677]

Thanks for the advice and it makes sense.

[@nostradamus7648]

Cool tip

[@LuisLopez-jm7xs]

Always talked about this and people call me crazy

[@luisrivera7844]

That tearing line sounds like it comes from experience

[@funnyvideos-ti7ey]

can i start without wet vacuum if i have dry one only ?

[@ryanS593]

Been detailing for 16 years and still learn new things all the time. It’s good to have an open mind and open ears.

[@Darvin-Hams-burner-account]

Doing my first shine work tomorrow, any tips?

[@ThisIsSparta300]

@@Darvin-Hams-burner-account when doing a car, follow this order (roughly) Engine degrease Tire, Wheel, and wheel well degrease Door jam / trunk jam degrease rinse door jams , then engine, then wheels Wash car Dry car Spray floor clean and then dry it by putting a dryer down on the floor to dry it, then your hoses don’t drag dirt inside Vacuum debris Use air gun to lift carpet fibres and clear debris from spots the vacuum doesn’t reach, I start in the front and blow my way to the back under the seats so it doesn’t all fly into the dash side of the car (tornador or air nozzle at 100-150 psi) Next I steam clean the roof liner, vents, dash, cup holders, glove box, door panels, door speakers holes, seat cracks, seat tracks, working my way from top to bottom, I use steam cleaner on the lowest setting with an air gun for Immediate drying to prevent water spots Shampoo car, I pre soak and use a drill brush on a drill or impact gun Degrease mats, pressure wash and extract water Then I put a air dryer in the vehicle, as well as a dehumidifier (I’ve pulled up to 12 litres out of a car before) Then I use lather and a brush for leather seats, if the seats are fabric I use the extractor. Next I retrace my steps and steam or brush/air blow little cracks, the mirrors in the visors, put the car in drive and ensure I got the plastic where the gear changes. Usually people notice the missed gear shifter area when putting the drive in park, nothing like creating doubt the customers car is even clean as soon as they put it in park or check themselves in a mirror. Next I use vinyl care, and then lastly do windows so you don’t get vinyl care greasiness on the windows. For windows I use two cloths , one wet with window cleaner, I wipe horizontally inside and vertically outside, so I can tell where the streaks are. I use the second micro fibre to dry. After this I apply tire shine, go over the face of the rims and make sure everything is nice Next I take the polisher and hit the headlights, I use a polish that doesn’t make a mess, it’s called symplex. In my opinion it’s the best polish on the market. This build order works well unless you have to Polish the vehicle, in this case I’d continue the above steps with a clay bar and a one stage (symplex has the best #9 or #10 cut out on a 10/10 scale, and it basically has a built in polish, unless the car is black I can one stage and haven’t had a complaint in 400 vehicles) Then I’d spray and redry the car again after the polish Any time I’m using any sort of brush or cloth or microfibre or wash mitt, I have two buckets. One with soap and one with just water. Everytime the cloth gets dirty, I ring it out, dip it in the rinse bucket and then ring it out again, and then dip It back in the soapy bucket. This makes your bucket of cleaning product last longer and your cloth always clean. If you don’t have a steam cleaner you can use cleaner and an air gun, in the case my steamer isn’t available or another vehicle is being worked on by a staff member, I spray the entire door down with a lather-able all purpose cleaner and use a detailing brush to agitate the door panel, then I use the air gun to spray all the cracks and speaker holes and any crevice a micro fibre won’t fit inside of , after that I wipe dry with a micro fibre. This works almost faster than the steamer (we only have one dupray super Carmon inox, and I recommend the hill injection which is 2300$ instead as the more expensive 4300$ super carmon inox model has a vacuum built in that I barely even use and it needs two separate 110 breakers and will trip a breaker if you even plug a phone charger on the same block. I find my biggest issue is power because the ninja 150psi extractor also has two power cords so the hill injection is better IMO) I charge 160 for an interior and 240 for a detail on Vancouver island, in British Columbia, Canada

[@southwesttraveler7417]

Not a pro detailer, but it’s something that I consider as “therapy” and I’m pretty damn good at it! I use certain colors of towels for specific tasks, makes it easier to avoid mistakes like a towel for wheels accidentally being used on the body. Also, regardless how clean the door jams are, those towels are never used on the body. Enjoyed the video, as always! 👍

[@krob8823]

Exactly how I feel about detailing. It's therapy.

[@rezi420]

Very good advice

[@dennisadorno6721]

Oh! YES!!! Best therapy ever....With my Sony Walkman plugged into my DeWalt boombox and my red rolly chair, I am INVINCABLE!!!!

[@cdw584611]

I do the same with colored towels

[@lannybos1759]

Ya

[@stephengray4830]

cool video. not sure if anyone else mentioned this already but a blower for the drying process is super quick and saves on rags

[@jeremiahallyn4603]

Glad to learn not to use ammonia based window cleaners in a car. I have done that many times and now I never will again. Thanks for the pro tips man ✌👊

[@seriouscat5242]

Alcohol can also discolor the vinyl & plastic quickly.

[@timmyr345]

Great refresher. I opened up a small detail business in January and I continue to learn. For me, your most important tip was that of sticking to a routine. I find myself getting distracted by something I feel I need to clean “RIGHT NOW” and having to go back to what I was doing before. Good advice.

[@chanelstewart408]

Same! I took note of that too.. I actually seen a small “task card” that I’ll probably order as part of my uniform as reminder for myself!

[@bobjalockowitz1568]

How is the detail business going now? Any tips? Best of luck to you🤙

[@nostradamus7648]

What's the best return for your advertising dollar? I've heard Google ads are the most cost effective. I know word of mouth is the best advertising, but what is your best advice for a new detailer?

[@ArtyTomato]

@@nostradamus7648 nextdoor app & Facebook. I don’t pay for ads I just post before & after pics and I’ll throw specials from time to time. Next door app is a local app, I get 1/4 of my clients from there 1/4 of my clients from Facebook and 1/2 from word of mouth and referrals from clients I get between the two apps.

[@denisef1153]

@@ArtyTomato whenever I need a service for anything I go to the next door app. From house cleaners to dog walkers and anything in between.

[@EPICWILDETAILING]

One tip I can share is that, to stretch prior, during and after your detail no matter what type of detail you do. It helps me move better and prevents my muscles from cramping. Also, drink tons of water.

[@THEADZBRADZ]

So true

[@bigbeef8935]

I like to eat a little ass before I detail, helps me focus

[@patriotaitaliano6714]

@@bigbeef8935 facts💯

[@CL4SSiCS]

Yep, during a detail I get extremely thirsty even in colder weather.

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

the first time I did a LONG proper correct detail on one of my cars, it was like a 6 hour job, MAN I hurt for days afterwards. Detailing is a GOOD physical work out !

[@wingedhussar5528]

Also worth mentioning is to wear loose clothes with NO zippers or sharp buttons. I rock my old cammy trousers with a t shirt or hoody.

[@tylerhoagland8342]

learned the hard way but no watches or pocket knifes with the clip on them!!

[@ORIGINAL786dodi]

Agree 100% strictly speaking NO Jewellery! No Watches, No Rings or Bracelets etc

[@FlexSZN23]

Underrated tip right here.

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

INCLUDING When working on it your car ! I put 2 NICE BIG scratches on mine when working on it, NO BUCKLES, RINGS OR WATCHES

[@Kraibotvideo]

Short-sleeve wrench suit with laceless, suede slippers 😂. I get so many comments, but it's pretty f-ing comfy. 6 hours on a show room prep... Trust... Comfy is key 😂

[@remerson1]

Great video and excellent comments from the viewers. The only tip I would add is to dry the door opening areas and especially those areas at the bottom of the door (accessible when the door is open). Nothing worse than spending a couple hours washing and detailing and then when it’s driven away, the water under the doors (and other places) gets sucked out onto the exterior panels and leaves water runs! Do the details and it will look great!

[@baklash6079]

I’m glad you suggested having a list of your processes, steps, etc. I have been detailing my 2019 Mini and wife’s 2015 Lexus since they were new. I made a very detailed step-by-step in-order list of everything from beginning to end including several reminders and DO NOT’s. I typed it up, printed, laminated it, and keep it handy when I wash. I made a maintenance wash list for week to week cleanup, and also a complete detailing list that includes removing old wax/sealer, claying (if necessary), polishing with a dual action polisher, etc. As time has passed I updated and revised this list regularly. My work now flows smoothly beginning to end with no worries about mistakes or missed steps. This list is my bible for detailing.

[@christianlucero1151]

I am new to detailing and am slightly overwhelmed since there is a lot to learn. Do you think you could share your list with me?

[@kateganley9357]

Thank you. Sooo helpful.

[@MrOnlymoin1]

oh yes please share your list. thanks

[@plaseeboman5567]

Could you please share your list? I am a beginner and would love to see

[@daveyo10]

Just a note for washing your wheels first. Either use a separate bucket or change the water before washing the rest of the vehicle. The brake dust and road grime kill the suds and add to paint scratching likelihood. Other than that, this tip is gold!

[@donaldjohnson4634]

People like you save me money by doing it myself ... besides we all need the exercise 👍🏾 Thxs for the knowledge...

[@dennisadorno6721]

Great exersice and therapy....I am always in a better mood after a good washy-waxxy

[@flats1935]

Great video on the basics. The biggest mistake I ever made detailing was using a step ladder to wash and dry the top of a large SUV. A random gust of wind blew it against the car and put 3 dents in the rear quarter panel. You only need two steps to detail most vehicles. Get a two step footstool that is sturdy and has some weight to it.

[@StaufferGarage]

Thanks for sharing

[@lavondadavis1973]

Great advice! I was thinking of using a ladder..won’t do it now. Thanks

[@stonephotogrqpher]

Or a Milk Crate (if you have those in the USA)

[@meathook2448]

I always used to clean my wheels last, thanks for this one!

[@JWiRX]

I like the idea of cleaning wheels first, but feel it should be noted: use a different sponge for the wheels than you will on the paint, and clean the bucket and start over new when hand cleaning the car. I usually do my wheels last just because they are the dirtiest, but this tip makes some sense to eliminate dirt splashing back onto a clean car.

[@M.E63]

@@JWiRX never use a sponge on any part of the cars exterior

[@chrishayden8137]

Biggest thing I’ve learned is to double check everything at the end of a detail. Sometimes you get so lost with everything that you end up missing a spot. Also, for drying I’ve started using the ProBlow from Chemical Guys and it does an amazing job of getting out water that gets traps in emblems, mirrors, and any areas that a towel can’t get.

[@bradyptacek7448]

I notice when I do pickup/delivery i always notice a thing or two from my shop to the persons house

[@JayLupe]

What type of towel do you use for drying?

[@arapaimagold8088]

Always double check door jambs and around sunroof

[@braut34]

Instant of buying a blower try using your lawn blower. Works pretty good.

[@zaceryhammond1144]

Chemical guys is a scam don’t buy that bullshit

[@silvertbird1]

Thank you for the excellent information! I’ve always hand washed my 2004 Thunderbird, but now I see mistakes I have been making. I just bought a new Mustang, and it will never see the inside of a car wash if I can help it. You truly have a talent for detailing, and instructing.

[@Umgijus]

5:20 my additional input about the importance of cleaning the inside of the wheel: if enough mud and such builds up on the wheel there, you might hear vibrations from driving as if your wheels are out of balance, due to the mud that is built up in there. Found out on my own sometime in the last couple months after driving the same dirty road for months. I washed my car regularly, but never touched wheels until this discovery.

[@elizabethw.6154]

Always pay attention to the wind. If you are spraying ANYTHING, make sure to stand/have your head upwind from it. It'll save you getting chemicals in your eyes/face, but also your clothes too.

[@MARK-r6c3k]

Ya no kidding, I was spraying wheel dressing yesterday and it was blowing back in my face. 🤨

[@scottcrawford3745]

Safety goggles/ glasses can help there, also when working with any kind of brush... wheels, grilles, upholstery etc. Those wheel cleaners can sting like an absolute bit*h.

[@daveyoder9231]

I'd like to see a video on top tips for leather seats. Also engine detailing.

[@forzaguy835gaming2]

yea man, i mean of course there are tons of videos out there on how to do that, but stauffer garage does a really good job explaining 👍🏻

[@Ali-iq4bb]

Engine detail 1 use agitation brush 2. Use “Super clean”in a spray bottle. Avoid electrical components. Agitate it w brush after it sat for a few minutes. 3. Use a chemical pump sprayer sold at a local diy shop. Home Depot. Lowe’s…. Fill it up w water. Pump and spray it clean. Rinse the area you cleaned 4. Use a “Air Force Blaster Sidekick” or similar, they come rebranded. I have one from Harley Davidson.

[@joeb5763]

@@Ali-iq4bbFinal step: Spray the rubber hoses, wires and black components with meguiars hyper dressing. Let dry for about 15 minutes then touch up any undried dressing areas. Engine bay will look brand new.

[@Tigerbythetoe]

Thanks for the list! I’m new to the detailing game so any kind of advice I can use to help me avoid mistakes is a huge benefit. We all want to be good at what we do, and provide great service. It’s really cool to see how many guys out there are happy to share their advice, tips and tricks with others. It only helps to make the whole industry better and improve people’s experiences with pro detailers which hopefully will translate into more people seeking out our services! Win win win!

[@cincyshineautodetailing3646]

When charging for detailing a car, don't downgrade your self worth. Charge what you are worth.

[@jackturner2876]

The most important one. So many people want a full detail for 50 bucks. It's infuriating.

[@1921di3go]

@@jackturner2876 or when they want you to detail an Escalade for $25 😂

[@ColonelFusion]

My grandma said I "ain't worth a nickel"

[@benhubbocks3370]

I dont know how much to charge that's my issue

[@vincentcasarez8895]

@@benhubbocks3370 do some cost weighing, how much does it cost to do the entire detail, how much do you want to make an hour(subjective), how long does it take to detail(hourly rate of income), ask other detailers, forums, etc. ask friends and family how much they’d realistically pay for a high quality level of detailing even for a wash and wax, even all the way to paint correction. Explaining services and communicating with customers shows professionalism and makes them want you, don’t waste time with people who try to lowball if you know you’re worth your solid price. But also be realistic and don’t charge $150 to wash and wax. It comes with time and experience.

[@simonharris8417]

Cheers for the advice, I was pleased to find the only thing I don't do is clean my brushes as thoroughly. Recently I've had family members and friends ask me to wash their cars for them but instead I've helped them wash their cars and have shown them how I wash mine, I love how they moan at the start but usually end up having a better appreciation to the amount of work it takes to look after a vehicle. I'm no expert (more of a weekend warrior) but have always enjoyed keeping my car clean and tidy, and with the detailing industry running high with better products and easily accessible info (like this video) now has never been a better time to get into car cleaning/detailing. The last six month or so I've used the 'multi mitt' method, which I think is loads better than the standard 2 bucket method and have invested in a car blower for the drying stage. Excellent video, keep up the good work👍🏻👍🏻

[@_symmetry_]

Trick for those who can't avoid direct sunlight, a water softener is perhaps on the expensive side but it goes a long way to avoid water spotting. Some shampoos also can be left for much longer under the sun without the drying effect, for me the classic blue from Adam's is still the best I have ever used and it can also take a lot of heat and sunlight.

[@archiepezek]

I've watched more detailing videos than I can count and I never heard about washing your vehicle in the direction of wind flow over the car. Makes sense. Also, Invisible Glass is the only cleaner I'll use--it's an awesome product. Thanks for a great video.

[@minot.8931]

I’m not sure about the wind flow wash. The argument is that you can make more scratches .. but if you’ve hosed the car before you start and then used foam or soap and a micro fibre mitt (not a sponge) then you can’t make any scratches.. or you need to improve how you do that prep.

[@M.E63]

@@minot.8931 there’s always little bits of dirt that you might miss which might cause scratches

[@JamesBond-hu9rg]

I make my own window cleaner. And Now it’s going to Market. No NOT on Rip off Shark tank

[@JamesBond-hu9rg]

Wind flow ? 🤔😱😬😂😆NOT !! Been a Detailer since 1981. Never herd of that. All hype

[@nostradamus7648]

I prefer Invisible Ass

[@poppadoczay8622]

Top detailing tip, never give up if it’s something you really wanna do.

[@StaufferGarage]

Absolutely the truth!

[@BHHartman]

Not just for detailing… that’s a top life tip! ✌️

[@vanessaeden8174]

Keep a small paintbrush in the glove compartment and use it to brush out dust etc in heating/ventilator grilles.

[@itsavlife]

I find detailing very fun, therapeutic, and a great way to spend time with my kids, and the feeling of a job well done is wonderful. My tip: for people that track race their cars you will get the little black rubber marks on your car. A quick and easy way to remove them is to use, in my case, Adams Buttery Wax. A little dab on a damp cloth and light rubbing removes it effortlessly. Thanks for the video!

[@juako4772]

What do you think about turtle wax rubbing compound?

[@seriouscat5242]

What's track race?

[@ecovango6675]

Wow great video! I am a old-school auto detailer. I started out detailing cars when I was in my teens and earned a living that way for many years. Thank you so much for showing our younger generation and their children about how to take care of their vehicles and doing it the right way! Bravo Yes I’m in my mid-50s now. And my car is always immaculate!

[@dgurevich1]

Hey, small miracle I discovered yesterday when cleaning my Dyson handheld vacuum filter. Carpet solution works wonders for cleaning the filter. It cleaned it to near like new condition. I used a 50/50 mix of bissel oxygen carpet solution and water, the one sold with their extractors. After rinsing the filter, I liberally sprayed the mix on it, then agitated with my hands for a minute, then rinsed again. You should try it.

[@mikehamilton6653]

I use a glass squeegee to Clean windows both interior and exterior. This doesn’t allow lint build up or swirls and gives your the cleanest windows!

[@Dantastic123]

Fun fact. About 20 years ago when I was a teenager (and was trying to keep a clean car to take all the pretty girls out in) and worked at a grocery store, I used to buy stoner's glass cleaner because the giant aerosol can was 0.99¢ in our "hardware" section. For a few years there, it was upwards of $6 for the same can, and has now settled to about $4/$5. I always thought it was a cheap bargain brand, but it always worked really well. Now I see tons of detailers really seem to like it.

[@joshwade7741]

Sticking to a system and investing in drill brushes! I used to scrub floor mats by hand, then discovered drill brushes and it gave me so much time back! Also very handy in getting light stains out without having to use an extractor 👍

[@redskilletboi8935]

I do not know what it would've been like for me not starting out with a drill brush 😂

[@mattmarsden7065]

I used to work at a hand car wash some years ago, it was horrendously busy all the time we never had the luxury of drill brushes lol. I must of hand scrubbed 3000 seats and carpets the time and effort they save is night and day

[@CockadoodleLou]

​@matt marsden same here, but i had to walk 3 miles to work as a detailer, UP HILL BOTH WAYS!

[@denisef1153]

@@CockadoodleLou 😅😂

[@arcticcowboy8659]

Me still standing in my driveway in loose clothing with no zippers and a new power washer at 2:30 in the morning waiting for the sun to go down because I live in Alaska 😒

[@iamthedealmrflameballent2085]

🤣

[@mejiaricardo40]

Man these tips are helping so much!!! One thing for sure I need to improve is on not having dedicated towels for different things. I always buy new ones all of the time and once they get stains on them, they are no good for me! But I definitely need to cop that heavy grey drying towel!!

[@beverlyduncan6122]

Color code detailing rags, never wash one color with another. Especially keep tire rags separate from from body and inside detail rags. I just prefer to wash each color rag separately from another to be safe and prevent transfer of tire gunk to other designated rags. And clean your cleaning products! Outside of spray bottles get dirty… hoses, cords, brushes… they can’t clean if they aren’t clean…. I have also incorporated a painters paint brush cleaning comb for my detailing brushes. The comb teeth are sharp (very sharp, be careful) and get thru to the base of the bristles to remove unseen hair and debris! Happy Detailing!

[@brandonmartinez8147]

Compressed air is my favorite detailing tool! Helps me so much

[@Ibeen_dat]

How so? What are so ways it comes in handy

[@randymurray934]

@@Ibeen_dat It's great for dispersing water in some areas that would take longer to dry. Compressed air has a lot of good uses inside the car as well.. for clearing out vents and what not, you can also use it to clear out cabin filters and air filters that might not need replacing.

[@MisterMavrick90]

The best I learned from my dad, the two bucket method for washing a car.

[@martin1649]

you know, it's not really the safest way to wash a car.. it's safer to rinse the mitt everytime you would put in in the water bucket...

[@MumenRider78]

@@martin1649 or just use multiple mitts

[@junaidahmed786]

I've been using the 3 bucket method. OCD!

[@faverdod5773]

Learn something every day! I’ve always used Windex and never knew about the overspray issues. I even had a truck with tinted windows and had the tint start disintegrating and thought it was just old/bad tint. Thanks for sharing these tips and kudos for sharing links to some of the products you use!

[@felixcurbelo5146]

Don’t forget to detail to detail air vents with interior brush, steam, and air! Air vents accumulate a lot of dust overtime when cleaning a customers car the dust is very visible if you do not clean it. Keep detailing and be great!

[@frankabruzzino9252]

I started using a silicone make up brush cleaning pad for cleaning my detail brushes.

[@idealdetailoc3677]

These are all great tips, and more than just tips I would say these are solid guide lines. I hope I can mention your channel and this video on one of my videos soon. The Microfiber towel tip is the most made mistake I have seen personally. People throw all their microfiber towels in one pile at the end of a detail no matter what they were used for. This is a BIG no-no. I have 4 dirty bins and one (junk) bin. Dry towels, ones that have the least chance of getting chemicals or dirt on them always go in the left bin. Second bin is my wax buffing towels or surface prep towels. Third bin is my interior towels, mostly used for cleaning surfaces on the interior and applying protectant. Forth bin is for floors, door sills, cleaning up dirt around the top of the engine bay (non-oily) and anything that would then cause the towel to go into the fifth bin. The fifth bin is for wheels, inner fender wells, oil and grime in the engine compartment (non painted surfaces) under car areas and soaking up oil:) Thanks for the video!

[@johnnyfnhammersticks]

The chapter breaks are great, thank you for that. Makes it so much easier to show people things

[@chanelstewart408]

FACT! This is a First time seeing the chapters broken down like this! LOVE IT! Thanks a bunch!

[@RFBrasher]

“Blow-dry” your car to get water out of all the cracks and crevices, and minimize contact from your microfiber towel with the surface of the car. Use a small electric leaf blower or other purpose-built tool for this step.

[@DerekMantei]

This one makes it so much quicker and easier to dry the car completely. 40v ryobi is the best value to get there as well.

[@DnRprodxIL]

I've got an air compressor haha. People give me looks when walking past

[@myousickoflife]

@@DnRprodxIL Be careful you can get a filter for it because they build up moisture in the air tank!

[@autopeakdetailing]

Very cool video! Glad to know I don't make these mistakes but definitely have in the past 😃 Keep your cords clean on everything Clean your pads Wear gloves! Eye protection when using Costic products Use ear protection when using blower and even vacuum. You only get one set of them 😜 Stretch before detailing and after

[@michelledcarter]

Excellent ideas. Thanks! Especially remembering to wear gloves, protecting eyes and to stretch before/after.

[@12220627]

If only I had done that when I started detailing. I'm 45 now and haven't detailed a car in yrs. Have tinnitus and very bad neuropathy from yrs of wet sanding and buffing cars...

[@kobebryant939]

Make sure that when starting your business you get the back end systems up and running smoothly. You don’t want to start a detail then realize you are out of your compound to correct the paint. Have learned this the hard way! Second to the quality service you give, the most important part in a a business is the stuff you can’t see aka your management and inventory systems. God bless I hope this will help somebody avoid the same mistake I made in the future.

[@helenes52]

Have a great day.

[@StaufferGarage]

You too!

[@justanornalintrovert514]

Nah you have a greater day!

[@Chao-MS]

KZbin

[@TheCeki1982]

@@StaufferGarage You forgot thé leaf blower! Cheers

[@roughdraft593]

Everything under the sun has been covered by this video and in the comments already, but Stoners glass cleaner IS the best! I've used it for well over a decade and can't find any better glass cleaner out there. Awesome video and much respect to other fellow detailers out there!

[@drewfinnie]

Thank you for the time and effort in producing this vid. Quality content and great delivery.

[@angelicahiser2706]

I'm new to car detailing. I was taught that cleaning under the hood and tires first. So many Wonder tips. Cleaning is my happy place, so I'm really loving this job. Thanks for the tips!

[@marcambrosius5478]

My detailing tip would be..I use dedicated microfiber drying towels along with my Bigboi car dryer, the dryer blows 98% of the water off of the car and is great for all the hard to reach areas like the grills ,headlights, door jams, mirrors etc. it works incredible on the wheels and tires, engine bay …I just follow through with the microfiber towel as needed . It’s fast easy and kinda fun 👍🏻

[@anthonygranados2873]

Great video !! 🤞🏼 thanks for sharing valuable information about detailing 🙏🏼

[@BrownsFaninIowa]

@1:35 -- Instead of 'top to bottom', I have found it more helpful to think about washing from 'clean to dirty'. Start the wash at the cleanest part of the car and work your way toward the dirtiest part of the car. Sure, this is most typically top to bottom, but not always. Sometimes the front is the dirtiest with bug splatter. Sometimes the lower and rear with mud. Sometimes to the hood, roof, and trunklid are dirtiest with fallout (dust, pollen, debris, etc.). 'Clean to dirty' automatically and methodically gets me to evaluate the entire car's condition before mindlessly starting at the top.

[@bbqguy777]

Great vid! I hate cleaning windows/glass. That was, until I found waffle weave towels. Now I love cleaning glass!

[@alexgutierrez1962]

i find using a wax or sealant with the waffle weave makes it even easier!

[@ethanwagensveld5496]

This is perfect I’m going to be deep cleaning our car this Saturday

[@randymurray934]

My tip: When using a bucket, make sure it has a drain/griil top section so your towel's do not touch the bottom of the bucket.

[@user-in8xx1xu5b]

Try chemical guys dirt trap for the buckets, works great

[@BR-ik4qh]

Stack matching buckets. Drill holes in top bucket. Done.

[@denisef1153]

@@BR-ik4qh ❤

[@damondhorner1602]

I'm glad to know I'm not the only one that color codes my microfiber cloths... Thought I was broken...lol

[@karlhulme8014]

Ditto

[@wheelmanwheel4389]

There are at least three of us🤙

[@matthewbadenius3645]

@@wheelmanwheel4389 make it 4 :)

[@forzaguy835gaming2]

@Damond Horner yea man, ive got 3 colors for 3 different jobs, but personally, once Im done using a microfiber, ill put it in a separate part of my detailing kit, works really well as you know those are the ones you have used 👍🏻

[@missayawk]

Thank you.I will start this practice.

[@fastlane2914]

Brilliant video I can see you take so much pride and care in your work

[@kevinjett1120]

Whenever I wax my vehicles I always wax and buff my headlights and taillights to keep them looking new and not build up a haze over time to where it looks like they're not on!

[@barrydawg7544]

Thank you for the information,, I subscribed and am retired and getting into detailing my Mini Cooper,, my Pathfinder and my Harley... since I have time on my hands I really get into becoming one with the machine so to speak.. lol. Just purchased my Karcher K1700 power washer and my new swivel gun with it and the goodies. Used it the other day for the first time and am very pleased with the performance and the quick disconnects.. I also have clear storage bins with my colored micro soft towels and what they are used for. I watch Pan the Organizer and also Dallas paint correction. I really like what you all do so Im looking forward to more of your content. Thanks again... what kind of foam do you prefer for your cannon and washing...

[@antoniop1968]

Two tips. First tip is towel cleaning. I launder all my detailing towels together, separate from laundry using a quality detergent without using any softeners or drying sheets. Keep them free of unnecessary and unwanted chemicals. Second tip is wheel cleaning. Annually, in Texas, can be seasonally for neighbors with harsh winters. I remove my wheel and scrub clean the internal barrel of the wheel. The amount of bake dust is unimaginable on the newer baking systems today. While I have the wheel off, I spray the calipers with brake cleaner and rinse as well. Be sure to take it slow when you start driving.

[@wgc383]

You should never dry micro fibre towels, it damages them. Air dry only

[@MarlenaMarley87]

Can you expand on what you mean by 'take it slow when you start driving'? Is this in reference to the calipers/brake cleaner?

[@jakewheeler406]

I've been thinking about starting car detailing. This Is a great help! Thank you!

[@chezchezchezchez]

You start?

[@ozzhanettalee4157]

My tip is cleaning the interior. Clean the plastic first before adding protectant. You don't want to protect dirt. I use a steamer and microfiber towel.

[@josephirey4660]

@Unn Sosa rub it with compound on a rag

[@clarkcalabrese5573]

Like the video! My add one thing I see a lots of people doing when they try to wash theirs's car/truck/SUV. And that is NOT rinsing out their wash mit often. Just dipping it into the wash bucket once or twice and trying to do the whole vehicle. The wash mit needs to be dunk into the wash bucket often!! Releasing the dirt from/out of the mit. If the mit gets to dry and is filled with dirt, it will become a slightly damp Sand Paper!!! and Will leave scratches! So rinse of often and keep the mit soapy wet.

[@Andre-ij2tv]

Top tip for me was claying and polishing my car. Paint went from looking rugged and worn to brand new.

[@AdamSchlaff]

It's dangerous to over clay bar your car too. Only do it if your hand doesn't slide smoothly after it's washed.

[@daniellerequa7191]

Never thought of wearing my rain boots while detailing. Totally doing that now! And thanks for the reminder dear to clean my vacuum…

[@joeb5763]

Sometimes I use my swimming shoes 😄

[@kwerty49]

That vaccuming is so therapeutic to watch!!

[@wikidXjaxz]

I thank you for everything you do found out how much of an enjoyable hobby this is

[@larryjacobsjr6049]

I'm thinking about opening a detailing business at 15 thanks for your great tips. I just need to get more materials 😂😂

[@Kraibotvideo]

Start with Meguiar's 5-step ceramic system. Great way to start and get into the game and learn what you need, what you don't, when and how to use certain products. Don't forget to check out their hyper dressing spray. Omg, I've never had an easier time cleaning wheels and engine bays than when I use that stuff! Great vid bro!

[@d.natrop4495]

I use Bond's Complete HOF-Dissolve program.

[@johnlam169]

Awesome awesome tips on the towels. I use to get one color. Now I have them in different color for different area.

[@DnRprodxIL]

Watching this for that glorious confirmation bias. I love ceramic coating wheels over any other part of the vehicle because of how simplistic it becomes when maintained properly.

[@piaaadah]

This was super informative, most of these things I never thought of. Thank you for this.

[@BitcoinUnderLegalLegislation]

My Detailing S.O.P. • Remove debris, mats, vacuum starting at driver’s side going back & around to passengers side. • Clean mats. • Clean driver side door, Dash, Console (Most Time Consuming) working my way back & around to the passenger side. • Then clean driver side seats, making sure dash & center console is covered to the best possible to avoid overspray; working my way around. • Then carpet using same method. • Dressing as same. • Interior windows as same. (I steam the glass if necessary using a mist APC for heavy grime). Exterior: • Wheels • Paint work • Dress

[@icemanpatriot6622]

1.When cleaning glass use newspaper or coffee filters (no streaks and no lint). 2.Use ice to freeze gum to remove it from carpet. 3.Change your cabin air filter to prevent dust returning right away. It also helps with smell and air quality in general.

[@nostradamus7648]

They make a cabin air filter that includes Arm and Hammer baking soda to absorb smells. Works well.

[@seriouscat5242]

And if someone VAPES in the car, the only thing that's going to remove that hard fog film from the inside windows is rainex.

[@kingace5044]

Gonna start doing my own car detailing business very soon. Thank you for all of the tips and help very much appreciated!

[@DonnaMSchmid]

Excellent set of tips! Thanks, James!

[@rhoward134]

Trying to start this journey. So any information I can acquire is always helpful.

[@thomascover5064]

If you have a adjusting steering wheel make sure you move it up and down to get both pockets above and under the steering wheel.

[@prashphoto]

Airflow and direction of cleaning.. such a good point!

[@JasonECI]

6:43 Put an old stocking over that filter will help without interfering suction power.

[@peterrudy9207]

Someone suggested a filter " sock " for pool filters .

[@markt538]

Each time I rotate my tires I scrub the inner wheels, dry and wax them. Really makes a huge difference on how my truck looks after washing. I need those flexible brushes!

[@peytonsavell7200]

Super satisfying

[@StaufferGarage]

Thank you 😋Glad you enjoyed it!

[@GFTV998]

I love the Griots Garage XL PFM it saves so much time!

[@robbertluiken7780]

My "best" detailing fail? When the passion started i was 4 years old. Little did i know that a scouring pad (that worked wonders with the bugs) was not ment for any part of the car. I did the whole car with it😂😂

[@donshew9228]

There are a million ways to do it right and a million and one ways to do it wrong. It's nice to see a fellow professional that has sound advice. I personally use most of these and especially the certain color microfiber towels for specific applications. I was told in detail school that Dawn dish soap strips wax off a car. Then he said not to use it. My thinking is, wouldn't it be a good idea to strip the old wax off if you are going to apply a fresh coat anyway? I currently work at a dodge dealership and its sad when I have better tools at my house then the dealership because they don't want to spend money on the detail department. The sales managers are in charge of detail department and they don't know or çare about it. They are only focused on selling cars and making sure their sales team is taken care of. I have only been there a little over a month and I don't see it being much longer at this rate. I know that a man is only as good as the tools he has to work with and I can't work with what I don't have! Hell I've detailed airplanes and huge Winnebago motor home coaches. I need to start my own damn business somehow. 🙄

[@Wofski]

Great video man! Appreciate the "helping each other" way of thinking! Subscribed!!!

[@rogerkniffen3670]

Also a tornador makes life so much easier. best tool I ever bought.

[@miriameranger8175]

Love the glasses. Good morning

[@StaufferGarage]

Thank you! 🤗

[@jkker05]

I have a DI rinse system. No spots no matter what time of day for this guy. It's worth every penny! Thx for the tips though. Great vid.

[@kenwonpalmer6835]

Good morning brother coming all the way from Leland Mississippi.. I detail cars as well, so I know where you coming from with this.. Amen!!

[@josettebellinger4862]

I was using Windex to hit the panels is this a no no?

[@sethlindner8101]

@@josettebellinger4862 Yes, he mentions why in the video but ammonia which is found in Windex is not good for rubber, plastic ect. Do yourself a favor if you're just looking to wipe the inside of your car down and get an all purpose interior cleaner. Total Interior by Chemical Guys is relatively cheap and perfect for beginners as it wont damage anything. It can be found on Amazon or in the car section of Walmart

[@edgarjohnso841]

Thank you for the much needed tips of detailing make the job quicker and more efficient

[@StaufferGarage]

Anytime hope they help

[@johnsonsjams3439]

Early morning works for me because the back of my house faces east :)

[@BPawn6]

I follow just about all your advice! I also have some huge microfiber drying towels. I also spritz a wet wax as a drying agent. Car comes out flawless! When washing microfiber towels, don't use dryer sheets. It will impregnate the fibers.

[@joeb5763]

Or fabric softener and use low heat while drying.

[@rogerworthington8862]

I'd love to be a detailer someday

[@musicaddic95]

Used Windex on the inside of my mom’s car. Thankfully it’s only been once, but I’m sure not doing that again!! Thanks for posting posting this man! 🤘🏻

[@lesrinehart933]

Always wash wheels first and then the top down