Why Claying is Essential for Your Vehicle’s Paint
Over time, your car's paint accumulates contaminants such as road tar, brake dust, industrial fallout, and tree sap. These particles embed themselves into the clear coat, making the surface rough to the touch and diminishing the paint’s shine.
A regular car wash will remove surface dirt but won’t eliminate bonded contaminants that cling to the paint. That’s where a clay bar comes in—it’s an essential tool for restoring smoothness, clarity, and gloss by pulling out embedded contaminants safely.
If you plan to apply wax, sealant, or ceramic coating, using a clay bar beforehand ensures maximum adhesion and a flawless finish.
How Does a Clay Bar Work?
A clay bar is a pliable detailing tool that glides across your car’s paint with the help of a lubricant, picking up tiny contaminants that would otherwise remain stuck to the surface.
✔ Removes industrial fallout, brake dust, and tar
✔ Restores a silky-smooth paint finish
✔ Enhances paint clarity and shine
✔ Prepares the surface for wax, sealants, or coatings
Signs Your Car Needs Claying
Not sure if your vehicle needs a clay bar treatment? Here’s how to check:
✔ Run your hand over the paint after washing—if it feels rough or gritty, it needs claying.
✔ If you see small brown or black specks, those are embedded contaminants that washing won’t remove.
✔ If water doesn’t bead properly, contaminants may be preventing proper wax adhesion.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Clay Bar
1. Wash and Dry Your Car
Before claying, wash your car using Unlockd High Foaming Car Wash to remove surface dirt and debris. Dry it completely with a microfiber towel.
2. Apply Clay Bar Lubricant
Generously spray Unlockd Clay Bar & Pad Lubricant on a small section of the car. The lubricant prevents friction, allowing the clay bar to glide smoothly without scratching the paint.
3. Gently Glide the Clay Bar Over the Surface
Using light pressure, move the clay bar in straight back-and-forth motions—not circular. You'll feel resistance at first, but as the contaminants lift, the clay will glide more easily.
4. Wipe and Inspect
After claying a section, wipe it clean with a microfiber towel and feel the surface—it should be smooth and contaminant-free.
5. Repeat for the Entire Vehicle
Continue working in small sections, reapplying Unlockd Clay Bar & Pad Lubricant as needed. If the clay bar becomes dirty, knead it to expose a clean surface or replace it if necessary.
6. Apply Protection
Once claying is complete, apply Unlockd Spray Wax or Unlockd Ceramic Coating Spray with Graphene to protect the freshly cleaned surface.
How Often Should You Use a Clay Bar?
✔ Every 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
✔ Before applying wax, sealants, or coatings for best adhesion.
✔ After winter to remove salt buildup and contaminants.
Recommended Product: Unlockd Clay Bar & Pad Lubricant
For the best clay bar experience, use Unlockd Clay Bar & Pad Lubricant. Its friction-reducing formula ensures smooth application, preventing scratches while maximizing contaminant removal.
✔ Provides a slick, safe surface for clay bar use
✔ Minimizes risk of paint damage and marring
✔ Enhances clarity and smoothness for a better finish
Pair it with Unlockd’s Clay Bar Kit for professional-level results. Get yours today!