Brushes can be used for much more than just paint! Detailing professionals use them to create an unbeaten shine on their cars. Here's more on one of some of detailer's most beloved accessory.
What role do brushes play in detailing? Why are there two types of brushes – for interior and exterior work? How do you choose the right solution for a particular task? Find out below!
The details that matter
Detailing differs from regular car washing due to great attention to... well, details! A large amount of these seemingly invisible intricacies create the final result and make the difference that is visible at first glance. A car consists of a large number of nooks and crannies, crevices and intricate shapes, and cleaning them all is a big challenge.
Classic methods of work will not allow you to get into every such place. Dirt, however, gets there with ease. It builds up over months, sometimes years, and isn’t bothered by thorough cleaning with a sponge or glove. Think of places such as the recesses of the doors or boot, fuel cap, inside of the centre console in the interior or air vents. You can only get there with a detailing brush!
Different sizes and types for different tasks
Soft99 detailing brushes are divided into those for interior and for exterior work. There are a few important differences between them, the most visible being the type of bristles. Cleaning products used for exterior work are usually rather strong (such as Stain Cleaner or Iron Terminator) and require accessories that are more resistant, which is why we have equipped the exterior brushes with synthetic bristles. They are slightly stiffer, and are capable of dealing more effectively with stubborn dirt. Things are a little bit different when it comes to the interior. Here we've gone with brushes that have fine, natural bristles, which are safe for scratch-sensitive surfaces. The cleaning agents used in the interior, such as Wash Mist, are also less invasive compared to exterior cleaners or fallout removers.
Another important aspect is the size of the brush. In Soft99 there are as many as 3 different circumferences to choose from: 16 mm, 24 mm and 30 mm. It's a good idea to pick a brush for the area you will be working on. The smallest one (16 mm) is perfect for narrow crevices, i.e. where a high degree of precision is needed – like the seat guides or air vents. Medium (24 mm) is the most versatile variety, and will be a perfect fit in most cases. The large one (30 mm) is the best option when working on larger surfaces, such as tyres, rims or the dashboard.
Usability and durability also matter
Detailing brushes come into contact with cleaning agents and water, so they must be able to withstand them as well as endure many cycles of work. Specially-profiled plastic handle allows for a secure grip, while also being fully resistant to just about any kind of dirt or cleaning agent. Use the special hole at the end of the handle to hang the brush, so it can have its place with the rest of the tools.
Also note that the interior and exterior brushes differ in colour. Those for the interior are black, while those for exterior work are red. All this is to minimise the risk that you will get them confused.
Looking for detailing brushes of your own?
We've paired our brushes with some of our most popular cleaners and fallout removers specially for our company store customers. Check them out HERE and never miss a speck of dirt or dust again!
