I wanted to get people's/ detailer's opinions on whether it's better to use a chamois cloth or a microfiber towel to dry the car. I've used a chamois for years and they have always done well for me, but I've read many articles where people recommend a microfiber towel. Any and all opinions, information and/ or empirical evidence is appreciated. Having a dark colored car, I want to do everything I can to minimize fine scratches in the paint.

Thanks

 

I've use both, and my personal preference is the chamois. For me, the microfiber cloth takes forever to dry the car and leaves streaks. If your worried about scratches etc, you may also look into air drying your car (I've seen people use leaf blowers for this).
Good Luck!

 

The best answer to avoid swirl marks is neither. I use an electric leaf blower to dry mine, then use a waffle weave microfiber towels to touch up any spots. Granted, the leaf blower works much, much better when you have a good coat of wax on the car.

 

I have seen air dryer, for cars, looks like a mini leaf blower/vac, that is designed for drying cars. But those would be hard to find, probably online only.

 

I bought a Toro electric leaf blowers just to dry my cars. Then use Microfiber towel for any remaing water.

Does any one do anything special for inside windows ?

Randy

 

I tend to use both a micro fiber and a chamois. I seem to run through a ton of micro fiber towels when drying though. That becomes a bit tedious, but they really work well. The chamois does seem to do a very nice job too, but I really look it over before letting it grace my car.

 

You can find air dryers for you ride at http://griotsgarage.com

Search for item numbers 15022 or 15130 - expensive but better than your local car wash...

 

i saw the dealership use a flexable waterblade I bought it at the local auto parts store...for $15.00 takes 90% of the water off no spots...and use a cotton towel for the rest...cut drying time in half FYI...also use turtle wax ICE detailer with a microfiber towel dailey and it looks like it came out of the showroom

 

This is what I do. Hand wash in driveway. Use leaf blower to get almost all the water off paint and out of nooks and crannies. Then I pull into the garage and use a microfiber towel from Chemical Guys to do final drying.

As stated above a properly waxed finish will clean and dry much easier.