I recently bought a FLEX 3401 and some pads but i'm wondering what does everyone use to clean their pads? I see there are the powdered citrus based cleaners (Snappy Clean & DP Pad Rejuvenator) and then there is the spray cleaner (XMT & Black Baron). I'm going to be placing an order soon for some more foam pads and a Purple foamed wool pad and I'm thinking of purchasing a bottle of Micro-Restore. Could this be used to clean the pads as well or should I get a dedicated cleaner for them? Tell me whatever you guys are using if none of the above :waiting2: :cheers:
I use APC to clean my pads after I use them and then spin dry them on the polisher. I also have the DP Pad powder and it works well to break up caked on polish and what not. If you really just want a cheap pad cleaner get yourself some Dawn Power Dissolver ( Dawn Power Dissolver ). Many people use it and have good results cleaning out pads with it. I dont think Micro-Restore would work the best for cleaning pads, but I guess you could put a bit in a bucket and soak them if needed.
I normally use APC as agpatel described but lately have been using the Tropicare Citrus Wash I got from Dust to Glory and it works great.
Hm......I've heard before that using dish soap would dissolve the glue holding the velcro to the pad. I suppose that's only with soaking them, not just spraying them with that Power Dissolver. Are you guys just using whatever APC you have around? I have some Eimann Fabrik Hi-Intensity cleaner, currently my fav APC, I use it for wheels, pre-soak and everything
I used it a few times and seemed fine, I know a few people here use it every time they clean there pads and not had issues. I use Megs APC or Majestic Solutions Super Green Stuff. I have not seen that APC you use, but looked it up and looks like it would work if you dilute it enough. Maybe try 1:3 or 1:5 and see how it works. This is the stuff correct: http://www.properautocare.com/hi-c32.html
I just used laundry detergent to wash. If the pads are washed right after polishing, usually you can get it back almost to original state.
The key is to not let them sit around dirty. Clean them right away if you can. I have used everything from liquid dish soap, APC's (many different ones) and Sunlight detergent bar soap. I use a nail brush while cleaning and I think that helps. Rinse them out well, spin dry and Bob's your uncle!
You can use something like Megs APC+. If you do use a degreaser, make sure it doesnt contain optical brighteners or contain anything that'll leave something behind. For example, Amazing Roll Off leaves some sort of protection behind. You can also mix up something like DP pad rejuvenator in a spray bottle.
I use the DP pad cleaner and it works great. Even on sealents and what not. It Takes out all the polish and leaves it all on the bottom of the bucket. After four or five pads the bottom is covered in polish sludge. Rinse in other bucket and spin dry. The way I see it if you buy mirco fiber cleaners for your premium towls why not a good clean rinsing pad cleaner.
@ agpatel: Yup, that's the stuff. I have it diluted right now in a 1:1 for wheels/tires and 1:2 for pre-soaking any trouble spots. I'll probably mix up a 1:3/1:5 bottle and try that out first. Thanks for the tip from D&D too, if I decide to pick up some DP pad cleaner i'll def try this out and let you guys know how it works. Welcome to the forums bige441! :welcome:
I've been using the Danase Pad Cleaner for about 2 years now and it works great. Danase Foam Pad Cleaner - Safest way to clean your pads - extends pad life
Green Aussie Cleaner - totally natural product. either hand wash or straight in the machine on warm with gentle cycle
I just use Sunlight washing liquid. Works great and haven't destroyed a pad yet :thumb: 10:1 APC also works well BTW
