Just a quick question...

Which do you prefer and why, a leather or a microfiber chamois? If neither, which method of drying do you prefer?

The reason I ask is because I've always used a leather chamois to dry off my car. In fact, I've used one since I was 6 years old when cleaning/ drying cars at my uncle's car dealership. But I keep hearing from more and more people that it can actually damage my paint/finish. Any responses would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

To dry, I use the smaller California Water Blade and then a synthetic chamois, The Absorber. I read, though I don't remember where, that synthetic chamois are actually safer for your paint than genuine chamois. It is important that you wash out your chamois often because not doing so could make it dangerous to your paint. Otherwise, using a chamois is perfectly safe.

I use microfiber for other things, but I don't like them for drying because I feel like it takes longer and doesn't get all the water because it gets wet quicker. It's just personal preference I guess.

I think a lot of people on here use those waffle weave towels too.

 

I have always used a leather chamois. Have never had a problem. Had a 91 Max that still looked like new when I sold it 4 years ago. My 01 still looks great. Like above I use the water blade first then finish with a chamois.

 

I used to use a chamois to dry my car, but I read somewhere it rips off a bit of wax everytime you use it.

Even though I don't uses waxes anymore (only sealants, Klasse), I have since switched to using a cali water blade followed by an MF towel to get the leftover water drops that the blade didnt swipe off. I figure the less "rubbing" I do on my paint, the less likely new swirls will develop.

 

I thought genuine leather stripped the wax and/or other protectants? I have a hydra-wipe synthetic. Works great, but I just let her air dry.

 

I use a waffle weave Microfiber drying towel. There is NO comparison to a leather chamois. I can dry my car without ringing it out once. When I'm done drying, I can hardly get any water out of the WW...it's that absorbent.
I got mine at www.ExcelDetail.com. They cost less than a leather chamois too.