Best Clay Mitts

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A clay mitt does the same job as a traditional clay bar, pulling bonded contaminants like rail dust and overspray out of your paint, but it covers more area and does not become useless when you drop it. When you choose one, start with the grade. Fine or light-grade rubber is the right pick for most cars in decent shape and mars the paint less, while medium or heavy grades attack rough, neglected finishes but leave more marring you will need to polish out. Consider the working surface. Some mitts have rubber polymer only on one face, others on both, and a larger contact area speeds up big panels like hoods and roofs. Fit and comfort count too, since you will be gliding it flat across the panel with light pressure for a while. Never use a clay mitt dry. You need generous lubrication from a dedicated clay lube or a quick-detailer spray, and you should keep the surface flooded so the mitt glides rather than grabs. Rinse it often to shed the grit it collects, and if you drop it on the ground, retire that section rather than risk dragging a rock across your clear coat. Expect to pay roughly $12 to $30 for a decent mitt, with premium options running a little higher. Plan to clay before any wax or sealant, and follow with a light polish if you notice fine marring afterward. Store it clean and dry.