Not everyone can find the time to wash their car on a weekly or even bi-weekly basis. In reality, most car owners likely manage to wash their vehicle about once a month due to busy schedules. If you’re in that category but still want your car looking fresh, investing in a quick detailer spray is a practical choice. Instead of setting up a pressure washer and preparing your foam cannon with car wash soap, you can simply grab a microfiber towel, spray the quick detailer on your car, and wipe it down.
The process can be quick, taking as little as 5 minutes depending on the car’s size and level of dirt. In my experience, the maximum time you’d spend using a quick detailer is about 15 minutes—considerably less than doing a full car wash. It’s worth noting, though, that quick detailers aren’t suitable for extremely dirty vehicles, as dragging dirt and grime across your car’s surface can lead to scratches. But for light dust, fingerprints, and water spots, a quick detailer does an excellent job.
In recent years, the quick detailer market has evolved, largely due to the rise of ceramic products in car care. Some brands have even introduced graphene-infused sprays that claim to offer superior protection. There are also more traditional quick detailers available that act like waterless car washes. Here are a few options that cover a broad spectrum of preferences.
Top pick: Adam’s Graphene Detail Spray
I’ve been using Adam’s Graphene Detail Spray for a while now, and the results have been impressive. I was initially skeptical about the graphene infusion, but this product has delivered on its promises. Compared to other ceramic quick detailers I’ve tried, including my runner-up recommendation, it offers longer-lasting protection and leaves a notably glossy, smooth finish.
When I first purchased my Toyota Prius Prime, I applied a coat of this spray after washing it, even though I hadn’t waxed the car. Recently, I left it parked at the airport for two weeks during a period of rainy weather in Southern California. Upon my return, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the car looked despite the conditions.
Adam’s Graphene Detail Spray provides a noticeable hydrophobic layer, which became evident during the recent rain. After washing the car again last week and applying another coat, the paint’s metallic effect shines even more vibrantly.
- ✅ NEXT GENERATION CAR DETAILING TECHNOLOGY! We’ve formulated our graphene technology into our…
- ✅ STREAK FREE, INCREDIBLE GLOSS, & SAFE FOR ANY SURFACE! Equipped with state of the art…
- ✅ A GREAT ADDITION TO YOUR CAR CLEANING KIT OR WASH KIT – Most store-bought detail sprays are…
Runner-up: Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Detailer
Before discovering Adam’s Graphene Detail Spray, my go-to was Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic Detailer. It’s an excellent product that I frequently paired with the brand’s Hybrid Ceramic liquid wax, which is my preferred choice for waxing. This detailer is still one of my top recommendations, especially if you want a ceramic-infused product.
I often used this on my previous vehicle, a pearl white Tesla Model 3, and it did a great job of enhancing the color and shine. While it offers hydrophobic properties typical of ceramic detailers, its protection doesn’t last as long as Adam’s Graphene Spray. However, it’s still an excellent option if you prefer a ceramic quick detailer.
- ALL-IN-ONE KIT: This convenient all-in-one car detailing kit for maintaining your car’s exterior….
- LIFT HARMFUL CONTAMINANTS: The included Hybrid Ceramic clay bar kit for car detailing works with the…
- CLEAN AND PROTECT: Keep your vehicle’s paint looking its best with Meguiar’s Hybrid Ceramic…
Best non-ceramic or graphene: Griot’s Garage Speed Shine
For those who aren’t interested in ceramic or graphene products, Griot’s Garage Speed Shine is a reliable, traditional quick detailer. It’s easy to apply, leaves no streaks, and can clean your car in just a few minutes. The formula lifts dirt and grime effectively when used with a microfiber towel.
Griot’s Garage has a strong reputation among professional detailers, and Speed Shine is a testament to its quality. It’s safe to use on various exterior surfaces, including glass, plastic, rubber, and chrome. However, it won’t provide significant protection for your paint, functioning more as a waterless wash than a spray wax.
- Effortlessly detail your car in as little as 5 minutes with Speed Shine! Putting the ‘quick’ in…
- Specially formulated lubricants lift dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other debris off of the surface…
- Leave behind a streak-free glossy finish in minutes. With Speed Shine your ride can have that just…
Best on a budget: Mothers California Gold Instant Detailer
Mothers is a well-established brand in the car care industry, and their California Gold Instant Detailer offers a simple, effective solution for car owners who want a quick clean. It’s an affordable choice, with a 16-ounce bottle often available for under $10.
While it does enhance the shine of your vehicle, it doesn’t quite match up to the performance of the top three picks. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for an inexpensive, easy-to-use option, this detailer is worth considering.
- Unique formula cleans fingerprints, smudges and dust while adding that sparkle that’s wet and…
- Color enhancers and shine fortifiers for show quality in seconds
- Trigger spray bottle for easy use
Also consider: Chemical Guys Hybrid V07
Chemical Guys offers a range of quality car care products, and while I’m a big fan of many of them, I haven’t found a quick detailer from the brand that matches the top two recommendations. However, the Hybrid V07 stands out among their offerings. It uses what Chemical Guys describes as “optical select spray sealant technology,” which results in a high-gloss finish.
While it doesn’t provide the same level of hydrophobic protection as ceramic or graphene detailers, it’s a versatile product that can be used on any part of your car’s exterior. If you’re not looking to spend extra on ceramic or graphene, this is a good option.
- HIGH GLOSS SHINE – Hybrid V07 is a quick detailer spray and sealant that produces a high gloss shine…
- OPTICAL SELECT SPRAY SEALANT TECHNOLOGY – Designed to remove fingerprints, dust, road grime, and…
- EASY TO APPLY PROTECTION – Hybrid V07 is designed to protect your car from the harshest elements and…
When is it safe to use quick detailer?
It’s essential to use your judgment when deciding if a quick detailer is appropriate. If your car is heavily soiled after a month or more of driving and is frequently parked outside, it’s better to opt for a full wash. However, if you drive short distances and keep your car parked indoors, using a quick detailer every couple of weeks should be fine.
Some suggest using quick detailer every day as a substitute for washing, but this could become costly over time.
What else do I need with my quick detailer?
You’ll need a high-quality, plush microfiber towel to use with your quick detailer. Apart from that, you just need a bit of time and effort to achieve a clean, shiny car.
How do I use quick detailer?
Using a quick detailer is straightforward, but here are some tips: spray it from about a foot away and be generous, especially if the car is slightly dirty. Work on one panel at a time, starting from the top and working your way down. Use one side of your microfiber towel to wipe off the spray, and the other to buff out any residue. If your towel becomes dirty, switch to a clean one.
