Richie’s Auto Detailing
What is a Clay Bar Treatment?
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Detailing 101Oct 22, 2025

What is a Clay Bar Treatment?

Have you ever washed your car, but when you run your hand over the paint, it still feels rough? That is "bonded contamination."

What is it?

Microscopic particles of brake dust, industrial fallout, and tree sap physically stick to your clear coat. Soap cannot remove them. If you try to scrub them off, you will just scratch the paint.

How Clay Works

Automotive clay is a synthetic resin putty. When we rub it over lubricated paint, it shears off these contaminants, pulling them into the clay and leaving the paint smooth as glass.

When do you need it?

We recommend a clay bar treatment once a year, or right before applying a new layer of wax or ceramic. If you wax over contamination, the wax won't bond properly and won't last.

Ready to book?

Whether you need a ceramic coating or a deep interior clean, we are here to help.