Let me start off with what may be a controversial statement:
Paint sealant and car wax are essentially the same thing.
Yup, you heard that right!
Let’s take a closer look…
Sealants & Waxes 101
Clearly, on a basic level, these products are coatings for your car’s paint.
True, they aren’t 100% exactly the same.
BUT, you see, both have the same intended purpose:
Protection from nature and you’ll get a deep, wet-look shine.
Car waxes are produced using either:
- Natural waxes (such as Brazilian Carnauba) or;
- Synthetic materials like polymers or acrylic resins.
Actually, these days most car wax products contain a mixture of ingredients.
Obviously you want excellent protection and gloss-enhancing properties.
Decisions, decisions….
Deciding on a Car Wax
Any car lover knows that paint can quickly oxidize and deteriorate. That is, for an extended period of time, without proper care.
I’m sure we can agree on that!
Car waxes and paint sealants will both protect your car’s paint from sun exposure, moisture and pollution.
The thing is this:
Beyond protection, car waxes and paint sealants also make a paint finish reflect more light. As a result, your car will appear to have more color and vibrancy.
Many car enthusiasts feel that Carnauba wax, like the popular Carnauba by P21S, adds an element of depth and warmth and shine.
It looks more natural.
Paint sealants, on the other hand, tend to offer more brilliance, sparkle and lasting protection.
It’s a matter of preference, really.
What About Cleaner Waxes?
A cleaner wax is essentially a car polish and wax in one.
This type of formula allows you to polish (clean) and wax (protect and shine) your car in a single step.
Sounds great, right?
Not so fast!
These products are a compromise.
It’s difficult to create a polish containing wax.
The reason?
Wax acts as a lubricant. This limits polishing ability.
Conversely, it’s also difficult to get a wax to stick when you’re scrubbing it off with polishes and cleaners.
Best Car Waxes Revealed
The secret to car wax is that it should be simple.
No cleaners or fancy polymers to mess things up. No powders that leave a white residue either!
The only way to describe it is “Like Butter!”
Then the shine hits you, like, WHOA! Where in the world did that come from?
Take it from me…
High priced paste wax won’t go on any easier or give better-looking results.
I’m going to point you in the direction of getting the best bang for your buck.
No nonsense here.
I’m often asked, “What’s the best car wax?” or “What’s the best car wax for a black car?” The answers are simple.
The best car wax is one you will actually use. Sounds obvious, but it’s so true.
Just Choose What Work’s For You
Have you ever purchased something that was recommended to you as being “the best,” only to find out it was very difficult to use?
Did you use it again?
Guys, let’s not waste money.
Sure, there are lots of good car wax products. They’ll protect your car and it will look fantastic, too.
BUT, I can’t stress this enough:
What makes a good car wax really great is one that’s super easy to apply. You’ll actually use it!
Best Car Wax Recommendations
Here are a few personal picks.
Carnauba Pastes
- The famous Carnauba Wax by P21S (most popular, referenced above)
- Pinnacle Natural Brilliance Souveran Paste Wax (when price is no object… best experience)
- Meguiar’s Gold Class Plus Paste Wax (great shine and you can’t lose with this choice)
Top Paint Sealants
- Meguiar’s NXT Generation Tech Wax 2.0 (most popular by far)
- Klasse High Gloss Sealant Glaze (best shine and ease of use)
- Deep Gloss Paint Sealant by Wolfgang (premium durability and wet-look shine)
Quality Cleaner Waxes
- Optimum Poli-Seal (the best protection)
- Klasse All In One (best cleaner and polish, easiest to use)
- Zymol Z503A Cleaner Wax (really easy application)
Check out How to Wax a Car after you’ve armed yourself with the best waxing products!