Mistakes People Make When Choosing Car Accessories

– A Guide by the Remax Team

When it comes to detailing your car, it’s easy to assume that any cloth, bottle, or brush will get the job done. But the truth is, the quality and compatibility of accessories matter just as much as the detailing products you use. At Remax, we work closely with detailers, enthusiasts, and car care professionals, and we’ve noticed a pattern—people often invest in high-end products but compromise on the tools that deliver them.

To help you avoid that trap, we’ve broken down the 5 most common mistakes people make when choosing car accessories—and what you should do instead.

1. Choosing Any Microfiber Cloth Without Checking Quality

Microfiber cloths are a detailing essential—but grabbing the cheapest one off the shelf can cost you.

Many think all microfiber is the same. But depending on the GSM, blend, and weave, microfiber cloths serve different purposes. Using the wrong one can lead to swirl marks, ineffective cleaning, or even light scratches—especially on sensitive areas like the dashboard or paintwork.

What to consider:

GSM (Grams per Square Meter): Higher GSM cloths are thicker and better for drying or buffing.
Weave Type: Plush weaves for paint; tight weaves for glass and windows.
Edges Matter: Go for edgeless or silk-edged cloths to avoid friction scratches.

Pro tip: Keep separate microfiber cloths for different tasks (interior, exterior, glass) to avoid cross-contamination.

#MicrofiberMistakes #DetailingTips #SmartDetailing

2. Assuming Bigger Drying Towels Are Always Better

Size does matter—but only when paired with the right fabric and construction.

Drying towels are designed to soak up water efficiently, but a large towel made from the wrong material can push water around, leave streaks, or worse, scratch your clear coat. Bigger isn’t always better if the towel can’t hold moisture or glides poorly across the surface.

What to look for:

Material: Choose towels made from twisted loop or waffle weave microfiber for maximum absorption.
Size: Medium-sized towels are often easier to control and just as effective.
Durability: Double-stitched edges or seamless designs reduce wear and tear over time.

Invest in 2–3 good-quality towels instead of rotating through several lower-grade ones.

#DryItRight #CarCareEssentials #SafeDrying

3. Using the Wrong Type of Brush for the Job

Detailing brushes are not all the same.
Using the wrong brush for a specific surface can lead to scratching, poor cleaning, or just a frustrating experience. For example, a stiff-bristled brush may work great for tires but can damage your leather seats or dashboard if used incorrectly.

Mistakes people often make:

One brush for everything: Each area of your car requires a different type of brush.
Cheap plastic bristles: These can leave behind marks or break down quickly.
No chemical resistance: Brushes that degrade after contact with strong cleaners.

What we recommend:

A soft detailing brush for interior vents, screens, and buttons.
A medium-duty brush for wheels and engine bays.
A durable ergonomic handle for long detailing sessions.

#DetailingBrushes #RightToolForTheJob #NoSurfaceDamage

4. Going Cheap on Sprayer Bottles or Pump Sprayers

It’s tempting to pick the cheapest sprayer bottle—until it leaks or breaks in the middle of your detail.

Sprayer bottles and pump sprayers are the backbone of efficient product application. If your bottle leaks, clogs, or sprays unevenly, you’re wasting product and increasing your effort. Worse, low-grade plastics can react poorly with certain chemicals and fail over time.

What to look out for:

Chemical-resistant materials: Especially when using degreasers or iron removers.
Adjustable nozzles: For switching between mist, stream, and spray patterns.
Sturdy trigger mechanisms: So you don’t wear out your hands after 10 pumps.

Pump sprayers with pressure-release valves and ergonomic grips are game changers for professionals.

#SpraySmart #NoMoreLeaks #DetailingGear

5. Ignoring Compatibility in Pressure Washer Sprayers & Nozzles

A high-performance pressure washer means nothing if your sprayer or nozzle isn’t compatible.

This is one of the biggest mistakes detailers make—buying a powerful pressure washer, but pairing it with the wrong nozzle angle or a poorly made sprayer. That can result in inconsistent cleaning or even damage to your car's paint and trim.

Mistakes to avoid:

Using a 0° or narrow-angle tip too close to the paint.
Not checking the GPM and PSI ratings of your equipment.
Using non-universal fittings that don’t connect securely.

What to look for:

Color-coded nozzles for easy identification.
Quick-connect fittings for ease of use.
Foam cannons and compatible lances for enhanced pre-wash routines.

Don’t underestimate the power of using the right pressure—and the right angle.

#PressureWasherTips #SafeDetailing #CarCareTools

At Remax Auto Concepts, we believe the right accessories are just as important as the right products. Detailing is a craft—and every tool in your kit should be chosen with care. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll extend the life of your tools, get better results, and protect your vehicle from avoidable damage.

Need help choosing the right accessories? We’ve got your back.
Whether you're a DIY detailer or a professional, our expert team is here to guide you through every choice.

#RemaxAutoCare #DetailingDoneRight #SmartCarCare #RemaxTools #DetailingWithPurpose