Mothers Clay Bar Guide: Restore Shine & Remove Contaminants Safely
See the difference, feel the difference!
The result is a perfectly smooth surface that looks and feels like new.
The start to becoming a detailing artist….
Meticulously enhancing the beauty of every detail of your ride.
Why Clay Bar?
Washing & Polishing cannot always remove embedded surface contaminants.
Mothers Clay Bar is a safe way of removing these contaminants.
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Clay Bar is not just for paint, use Mothers clay bar on glass, chrome,
smooth plastics and even your wheels.
Contaminants include brake dust, tree sap, bugs and tar, bird droppings, and many
other environmental elements that can embed into the paint, causing it to feel rough
and look dull. The clay bar suspends these contaminants inside the clay so they cannot scratch or
be deposited back onto the vehicle. 1 Clay bar should clean 2 medium sized cars.
Traditional Clay vs Speed Clay Tool
Traditionally, clay bars are malleable clay blocks, which you would knead and fold
contaminants into as you went along in the process. Now, there are newer, more
ergonomic options such the Mothers Speed Clay Tool, which can be used and re-
used, simply washing contaminants off after each use. What type of clay bar you
choose really does come down to user preference.
As a quick tip, if the contaminants are light, the Speed Clay is perfect to quickly
remove while washing the vehicle or with a detailer. For more embedded
contaminants, the traditional clay bar method will easily remove tougher
contaminants.
When should I clay bar my car?
If you notice that your car's paint feels rough or gritty to the touch, even after
washing, it may be time to use clay bar.
How do I clay bar my car?
To clay bar your car, you will need a clay bar, a lubricant, and a microfibre towel.
Begin by washing and drying your car thoroughly. Next, apply the lubricant to a small
section of your car's paint, and rub the clay bar over the surface in a back-and-forth
motion. Use light pressure, and keep the clay bar lubricated at all times. Finally, wipe
away any residue with a microfibre towel.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Wash the Vehicle
Wash your car thoroughly with Mothers Car Wash to remove loose dirt and grime,
then dry it with Mothers Twist Microfibre Drying Towel. Ensure the car’s surface is cool and work in the shade to prevent the lubricant from drying out prematurely.
Eye out the sections you want to work on
Work on manageable sections, easily within arm’s reach, to maintain focus and
avoid drying out the lubricant.
Apply Lubricant
Generously spray Mothers Detailer onto the surface of the car, using enough that the
clay glides smoothly over the surface without scratching.
Use the Clay Bar
(We recommend breaking the clay bar in half and using half at a time, this ensures
that you efficiently use the clay and if you drop the clay onto the ground you will need
to discard it and you will still have half a bar of clay to use). Flatten and knead the clay bar into a pliable shape. Gently rub it over the lubricated surface in straight lines (back-and-forth and up-and-down motions). Avoid circular movements. As you work, you'll feel resistance initially, which will lessen as contaminants are removed.
Knead the Clay Bar
After each section, inspect the clay bar for dirt. Fold and knead it to expose a clean
surface before continuing.
Check Your Work
Use the back of your hand or your fingers to check for contaminants, you can also
place your hand in a plastic bag and running it over the treated area as this highlights the effect. If it feels smooth, you're done; if not, repeat claying until smooth.
Wipe Off Residue
Wipe away any remaining lubricant with a clean microfiber towel after completing each section.
Final Steps
Once you've clayed the entire car, wash it again to remove any leftover residue, or
use detailer to ensure all residue is now removed. For long lasting shine and protection, apply Mothers CMX Ceramic Spray Coating, Ceramic Spray Wax or Pure Carnauba Wax.
Claying FAQ’s
Can a clay bar remove scratches?
No, clay barring is not designed to remove scratches from your car's paint. By
smoothing the surface, you may see them less clearly however we recommend a
polishing compound or scratch removing polish to remove scratches.
Can I damage my car's paint by clay barring?
Yes, it is possible if not used correctly. It is important to use the detailer as the
lubricant to ensure the clay glides smoothly and freely over the surface. Avoid
applying too much pressure and you should never reuse a clay bar once it has
become heavily contaminated with dirt or debris as this can scratch your car's paint.
Can I use a clay bar on my ceramic coating?
It's not recommended. If you've got a ceramic coating on the finish of your paint, it's
already been sealed and contaminants removed. Using a clay bar over ceramic-
coated paint can result in damage to the coating. If you have light contaminants embedded in the finish, use the Speed Clay Tool while washing the car and spray Mothers Ceramic Detailer or CMX Spray Coating to boost the protection.
Never use a dropped clay bar
It will pick up debris that can scratch your paint.
Replace the clay bar if it becomes too dirty or ineffective.
Prevention is better than a cure
It is best to remove the contaminants as soon as you can to prevent them embedding too deeply into the surface.