Synthetic vs. 100% terry cloth

[Perfectlap]

if you only used the sponge and it produced swirls, I have to ask:
Did you clay before applying the wax?

There are often tiny microscopic sediments,silicas,metal dust,etc. that become embeded into the clear coat surface and will only uhook themselves unless you rub on the paint. If this done while the surface is dry (like when waxing) you will swril the paint. Light rubbing with a wash mit or sponge won't remove these sediments.

I'm a paranoid detailer. Under no circumstances do I apply waxes and polishes
without first doing a quick clay AND wash. I think its very important to cleanse the paint of all the sediment that may have been left behind after claying and buffing.

A big rookie detailing mistake is to wax the car frequently after washing. One applicating of an acrylic wax will last weeks if not months. If additional shine is desired a quick spray detailer like Sonus acrylic spritz should be used since there is no firm rubbing of the paint surface.