Auto Detailing Products:
"WWDD"

What Would Darren Do

"Darren, I am frustrated and overwhelmed. Can you just tell me what you use. I don't want to read a thousand different reviews with a thousand different opinions. I just want to know what YOU use."

Darren's Advice: If you want to simply cut to the chase and start seeing what I use, simply scroll down to my specific list of auto detailing products below and get started. With that said, I do believe it would be worth your while to read your way down as I apply some critical thinking and a voice of reason I think most of you will find adds even more depth to your understanding.

Today is a world of information overload! When I first started in the business, I didn't have enough information.

Now you are literally drowning in a sea of endless opinions, from endless so-called experts and so-called professionals.  The Internet and its endless platforms allows anyone to voice that opinion...regardless of its validity or not.

"Information is NOT the problem. Too much information IS the problem."

And now you find yourself bouncing from one opinion to the next, trying to find the perfect car wax, car polish, window cleaner, etc., etc., etc!!

Once again...I totally get it. We all want the best.

But your relentless pursuit of the "best" is likely preventing many of you from taking action.

Darren's Detailing Advice

Due to the amount of inquires I get from people looking for answers to their car questions, I need to add some "behind the scenes" info for your understanding:

• I am completely slammed (that means busier than a one-legged man in an ass kicking contest) with not only maintaining my professional detailing business, but shooting videos for YouTube, posting on the endless social media platforms, and trying desperately to answer the flood of questions thrown at me from all directions.
• Because of the endless demands, I have created this page as a way of helping out the many, rather than helping out the few.
  
• This page is designed to fulfill many of the most basic questions I am so often asked.
  

Darren's Disclaimer:

"I could take any subject below and write an entire book, make endless suggestions as to what to use and how to do it. But many of you keep searching, never pulling the trigger on anything that would actually get you closer to where you want to be."

But read on....

I lost count as to how many people just like yourself have written in and told me how frustrated they get, or how worthless they feel every time they go onto another detailing forum looking for answers.

Trust me when I say; I know that feeling all too well. Precisely why I do not go on ANY detail forums these days.

After a couple minutes, my head wants to explode!

Endless opinions, endless "experts".

"So if you really want to get closer to producing professional level results; quit the endless searching and just start doing!"

Sure Darren....easy for you to say.

But once again; you are going to get a different opinion every time you ask!

SERIOUSLY, you will!!

It is a known fact that when a person is presented with too many choices, they literally become unable to make a decision. These are a few of the common frustrations I hear from guys like yourself:

• I can't make a decision Darren; I am stuck trying to decide what to do.
• I really want to simplify this process that so many other guys seem to make so confusing.
• I just want to know what you use Darren.

"With modern technology and chemical engineering, it is hard to go wrong. You could literally pick just about any product and get pretty good results."

But with that said, guys (and a few girls) still want to know what I use (or would use) if I were you.

What you are going to find below is my list of recommendations that to me represent a sure thing (I know; no sure thing truly exists in life other than death and taxes). But when it comes down to MY professional detailing business, I need products that I consider to be the closest thing to a sure thing as possible.

And the products below are what I consider "sure things" —with that said I do not use all these products in my professional business since many of them are packaged as retail products, and this would not make sense as a business owner.

But the products below are what I would use as a car owner.  

Before I lay out "Darren's Secret List", let me add one of my biggest and most common words of advice that seems to help a lot of people who find themselves confused, overwhelmed, and frustrated:

"Just start!"

Pick a product or tool (hopefully something from my list below) and just start doing! Not only will you be pleasantly surprised, but you will also be at least one step closer to getting more of what you want.

And guess what?

I promise you that whatever product or tool you do decide to get....it won't be your last one! You will continue to buy more products moving forward.

Just accept this. But in the meantime you gotta start somewhere.

And that somewhere is exactly why I created this page. A place for you to start.

So quit overthinking everything to the point where you do nothing. Start slowly and work your way from there.

Get a hand on the basics, and build from there.

Auto detailing products:
Exterior Car Care

I will start with the exterior as this seems to be the priority of many car owners.

Exterior car care goes as follows:

• Washing car: Do this to remove superficial dirt —dirt and sun are the worst enemies of your paint. You can't control sun exposure, but you can dirt exposure. Wash frequently —at least once a month, but I prefer once a week.
• Decontaminate paint: The air is swirling with all kinds of "dirt" particles and many of these have the ability to bond to your paint. Only with a dedicated process of decontamination can you remove these bonded dirt particles. Virtually every car will have some degree of airborne pollutants attached to the paint surface — even new cars. Typically referred to as "claying your car", this clay bar process only needs to be done initially and then only as these dirt particles begin to build up again —typically only once a year for most cars based on where you live and how polluted the air is.
  
• Car Waxing: Waxing serves two purposes- protection and visual enhancement. Modern day products now rely on the use of ceramics and graphene for protection and visual enhancement. You can still default to using traditional waxes and sealants, but the updated products will provide superior protection. 

Car Washing:

I have some definite opinions to washing your car that are completely counter to what you probably think or have been told:

• I think most people would be better outsourcing the car washing part to a quality car wash in your local area. This would mean a 100% brushless, 100% cloth, or 100% hand wash. No tunnels with the big, nylon brushes.

Crazy as this seems coming from a professional detailer; it is one of my "voice of reason" moments. So let me be a voice of reason to you and your world:

"Most people will spend a good hour or more washing their car at home because they are overly worried about taking their car to the car wash, or they think it is the better way. The major problem with this is that most people will wear themselves out or run out of time simply washing their car."

If you have now worn yourself out of time and/or energy, then how are you ever going to get to the more critical and more fun parts of the detailing process?!

So there...that is my voice of reason.

Take your car to a trusted car wash, save yourself the time and effort, then go home and do the "fun" stuff of car care and detailing.

But I get it...

There are those of you that will insist on doing it yourself or simply don't have any other options.

• You don't really have any car washes that are both realistically convenient, or just plane suck all together.
• Some of you truly enjoy the car washing process and find it therapeutic.
  
• You are a person that simply cannot change from old processes. I also get this!

So for all of you who still want to wash their cars themselves, I recommend the car wash kit from Chemical Guys just below.

Chemical Guys Car Washing Kit on Amazon

Paint Decontamination:

Before you wax your car, you will first need to prepare the surface by removing embedded pollutants that attach to your cars paint and will not be removed with traditional washing and waxing or even polishing. There is this stuff floating around in the air you breathe called pollution. Tiny particles of "contaminants" (How is that for a very un-scientific label) settle onto your cars paint, along with the more traditional "dirt" and begins to etch and embed into the surface. You can test how significant this is by using a plastic sandwich bag.

After your car has been washed, place the baggy over your hand and slide across the "clean" surface of your paint and glass.

Pretty disturbing isn't it?!

If you do not remove these pollutants (also called industrial fall-out in the industry...I know; sounds way more dramatic and cooler than "dirt") you are in fact applying wax directly over all these tiny particles of pollution (fall-out).

You need to remove these before you do any else to your car. And the process is done on a clean car, where you have removed or washed away traditional superficial dirt. (you know the kind that actually washes away with soap and water)

Chemical Guys Clay Kit on Amazon

Paint Protection:

These days, “protecting your paint” means much more than a fresh coat of wax. While waxing has long been the go-to solution for a glossy finish, advances in chemistry and manufacturing have given rise to a whole range of ceramic-based coatings. Unlike traditional car waxes, these nano-ceramic formulas bond at a molecular level to your vehicle’s clear coat, delivering:

• Superior durability: Lasting anywhere from one to five years (or more) compared to wax’s few weeks of protection.
• Enhanced hydrophobicity: Water beads up and slides right off, taking dirt and grime with it.
• UV and chemical resistance: Shields against sun-fading, bird acid, road salt, and industrial fallout.
• Easier maintenance: A simple rinse or gentle wash often restores much of the show-car shine.

Whether you choose a single-stage SiO₂ coating for basic protection or a multi-layer package with additional polymers and titanium dioxide for extra gloss and resilience, ceramic coatings represent the next level in paint preservation—keeping your car looking newer, longer.

Cerakote Ceramic Spray on Amazon

Rev up your ride’s protection with a professional-grade finish right from your driveway:

• Up to 50 Washes of Protection – Our industry-leading formula now boasts an even higher longevity rating, shielding your paint through 50 carwashes without breaking down.
• Unmatched Silkening Effect – Glide your hand over your panels and feel the ultra-slick, glass-smooth surface you have to touch to believe.
• Showroom-Quality Gloss – Instantly achieve a mirror-like finish in minutes—no buffers or polishers required.
• True Ceramic Hydrophobicity – Advanced SiO₂-rich Cerakote technology forces water, mud, and road grime to bead up and roll right off, keeping your car cleaner longer.
• UV & Chemical Defense – Blocks harmful UV rays, bird droppings, and industrial fallout, preventing fading and etching for a lasting showroom appearance.
• DIY Simplicity – Simply wash and dry your vehicle, spray a light, even coat onto each panel, then buff to an incredible shine. Professional results with zero fuss!

Tire Dressing

Adam's Graphene Tire Shine on Amazon

Give your tires a showroom-grade makeover with Adam’s Graphene Tire Dressing—featuring:

• Deep, satin-black tire finish without the slimy feel – Unlike traditional silicone-based tire shines that dry out and crack, Adam’s Graphene Tire Dressing seals your tires and locks out water, dirt, and contaminants for a long-lasting “like new” appearance.
• Zero-sling, water-based formula – Our curing-coating performance bonds over time, eliminating messy sling and making wipe-downs between applications a breeze. Simply apply with an applicator or spray directly onto the tire face and treads.
• Cutting-edge graphene-oxide ceramic resins – Harness the same advanced chemistry found in our Graphene Detail Spray to create a durable, heat-resistant layer that outperforms any silicone dressing.
• Professional-grade results at home – For a flawless wheel and tire detail, use a dedicated wheel cleaner, brushes for wheels and tires, and the Adam’s Pro Tire Hex Grip Applicator to evenly level the product and keep your hands clean.
• Proudly USA-made with a 110% satisfaction guarantee – We’re committed to delivering top-quality car care supplies—detailing kits, waxes, sealants, ceramic coatings, microfiber towels, and more. If you’re not delighted with the results, we’ll make it right.

Tire Dressing Applicator

Turtle Back Dressing Applicator on Amazon

• The best dressing applicator I have ever used (ideally suited for exterior use, but still capable for interior use)
• I cut mine in half (now I get two for the price of one) and makes for the perfect size when using as a dressing applicator
• When cut in half, you now have multiple size areas and angles for precise application of dressing based on your type of tire sidewalls
• Get sponge completely wet using tap water, wring out as tightly as possible, apply dressing directly to sponge and then apply dressing to tire sidewall
  

Wheel Cleaner

The topic of wheel cleaners is a much debated topic filled with many opinions. The biggest debate being between the type of wheel cleaners people choose to use. I have numerous videos addressing this debate between acid or non-acid based wheel cleaners.

Since I am trying to simply this page into letting you know exactly what I use, I am only going to give you 2 choices based on acid vs. non-acid. If you want to see the comprehensive discussion on wheel cleaners and the different types I recommend if you have a problem with what I use, you can see that at car wheel cleaner.

Wheel Cleaner

Adam's Polished Tire and Wheel Cleaner on Amazon

Restore your wheels and tires to showroom condition with Adam’s Wheel & Tire Cleaner—featuring:

• Powerful brake-dust removal and de-browning action – Formulated to tackle heat-baked contaminants, dirt, and brake dust for tires and wheels that look like new again.
• Safe on all finishes – Gentle on clear-coat, powder-coat, chrome, alloy, and painted wheels without harming your factory finish.
• High-suds formula for deep cleaning – A blend of alkaline solvents and surfactants cuts through wax buildup, greases, and old dressings to reveal the original color beneath.
• Preps for longer-lasting tire dressings – By eliminating grime first, your favorite tire shine products can adhere better and last longer.
• 110% satisfaction guarantee – Backed by Adam’s commitment to top-quality detailing supplies; if you’re not thrilled, we’ll make it right.

Darren's Note:

I’ve completely swapped out traditional wheel cleaners—I refuse to let harsh chemicals wash into our waterways or compromise my health. Because I keep my cars on a strict maintenance schedule, my wheels never get so filthy that cleaning them feels like a chore. That’s why I reach for versatile, eco-friendlier concentrates like Simple Green (see below) instead of RTU sprays that you burn through after one or two wheels.

When you do need to tackle years of baked-on brake dust, start with a dedicated wheel cleaner like the one above to do the initial heavy-lifting to start with. Once your wheels are back to near-new condition, you can switch over to a gentler, non-toxic cleaner without the environmental guilt.

All-Purpose Cleaner

Simple Green Crystal on Amazon

Darren's Note:

You might be surprised to learn that I don’t use a “dedicated” wheel cleaner—instead, I’ve been relying on Simple Green for decades. Here’s why this all-purpose, non-industry product has become my go-to:

• Proven track record: I’ve built a reputation on bringing tools and cleaners from outside the typical detailing world. Simple Green isn’t made by a car-care giant, but it delivers.
• Eco- and user-friendly formula: Biodegradable, non-caustic, non-abrasive
• Non-flammable, environmentally safe
• Unmatched versatility: Brake-dust removal: Use full strength and repeat applications until the wheel is clean. 
• Maintenance mode: Dilute 10:1 (water:cleaner) for regular wheel washing. No-brush freedom: With a pressure washer, simply spray on cool wheels and rinse away grime—no scrubbing required. Manual option: If you lack a pressure washer, agitate with a brush or mitt for the same spotless finish.
• Beyond wheels: Tackles tire sidewalls, wheel wells, oxidized black plastic trim, and even serves as an engine-bay degreaser when used full-strength.

By mastering these simple ratios and applications, you’ll save money, reduce chemicals in our waterways—and still get showroom-clean wheels every time.

Spray/Quick Detailer

Adam's Graphene Detail Spray on Amazon

Next-level car care powered by graphene: Adam’s Detail Spray delivers iconic versatility in one bottle. Use it as a clay‐bar lubricant, top‐coat sealer, protection booster, waterless wash, dust remover or drying aid—your new detailing essential.

• Streak-free finish with mirror-like gloss, safe on every surface
  Harness cutting-edge graphene technology for deep shine that outperforms the rest and extends the life of your waxes, sealants and ceramic coatings.
• Supercharge your wash kit
  Unlike ordinary sprays loaded with fillers, this formula layers perfectly over existing coatings to amplify shine and hydrophobic performance—once you try it, you’ll never go without it.
• Effortless spray-and-wipe application
  Just mist onto paint, glass, chrome, wheels, grilles or trim and wipe with a microfiber towel for a breathtaking, water-beading finish. It’s even safe for interior surfaces.
• Total satisfaction guarantee, made in the USA
  We’re committed to the highest quality in every product—from cleaners and cloths to waxes and applicators. If you’re not delighted, let us know and we’ll make it right.

Auto Detailing Products Summary

I will continue to add more and more of my "What Would Darren Use" products to this page as I move forward with developing this site. Hopefully this will give you a very good starting point in helping you achieve better results when it comes to detailing your own cars.

Endless opinions exist as to the best auto detailing products. I hope you will come to appreciate the products I have come to love and use during my long career as a auto detailing professional1

Sincerely,

Darren Priest