^so you wash four times a month?
That's allot. Have you tried using a waterless wash like Optimum No Rinse, QEW, or Poorboy's? It'll save you allot of time and be MUCH easier on the paint. You just wipe down the paint with a bucket of warm water with one ounce of the No Rinse added. More than 40 hose and bucket car washes a year is going to swirl up the paint in a hurry.

That is a lot of washing, I take my car to the DIY car wash maybe every 2+ weeks or so, and for $5 and 15 minutes I do an endurance challenge car wash. It does a decent job, then I go home and use the tire cleaner and pressure washer on the rims, and occasionally give it a wax. I love my hardtop because it makes a DIY car wash a possibility. I should try the clay bars, everyone talks about them like there godly.

The ocean blue is hard to maintain, but you jut have to relax and come to terms with the fact that it is going to get dirty, and to deal with it. :D

I guess you were talking to me about the weekly washing. I use very well-made microfiber sponges/mitts and take special care to only rub lightly in the direction of the airflow over the car. I don't know how else to truly clean a dark paint car?
I cannot simply "dust" it away as that will produce far more abrasions and swirls than a mild wash would, I would only imagine. I would love to give one of your recommendations a chance.....I just *shocked* never heard of a waterless wash!
Sorry for my ignorance -- perhaps I need more info on these!

Thanks.
:rolleyes:

well its not really a waterless wash. Its more of a hose free wash.

One large bucket of warm water, a few ounces of the No Rinse or QEW additive and one of those high quality microfiber towels, sponge, etc.
Dunk the sponge or towel and hold it over each panel to soak the car.
Then wipe down in the direction of the airflow as you mentioned. Dunk repeat.
Spray the car with a quick detailer before drying and you are done with the paint.
Use the left over water in the bucket to clean the wheels with a wheel brush.
Many pro detailers are gravitating towards this method for cars that are usually well maintained. The hose and suds is overkill sometimes.

I keep a large 36 oz ounce spray bottle full of the No Rinse to spot clean for dust or bird bombs.

here's a nice photo write up on waterless washing

Hey guys, that link I posted wasn't me. I just threw it up there because I was impressed with it. Sorry to mislead anyone. I should have been more careful.