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What Cleaner Should I Use on My Tires?
Use regular car wash soap for maintenance cleaning during routine car washing. For deep cleaning, use a dedicated tire cleaner.
Quick Answer
Use a Dedicated Cleaner When Deep Cleaning Is Needed.
For light grime during a maintenance wash, a gentle car wash soap is enough to remove dirt and brake dust. Heavier road grime, oxidation and old tire dressing usually require a dedicated tire cleaner formulated to loosen the contamination before scrubbing with a stiff-bristle brush.
Choose by Cleaning Need
Match the Cleaner to the Condition of the Tire.
Use car wash soap for ordinary maintenance. Step up to a dedicated tire cleaner when oxidation, old dressing or heavier contamination requires more cleaning power.
FOR LIGHT CLEANING…
Car Wash Soap
Cleans light dirt
Good for maintenance washes
Won’t remove dressings or protection
FOR DEEP CLEANING…
Tire Cleaner
Removes oxidation, brake dust and grime
Requires a stiff-bristle brush
Best preparation for coatings and dressings
Free Printable Decision Tool
Keep Rubber Healthy with the Right Cleaner.
There’s more to tire cleaning than choosing between car wash soap and a dedicated cleaner. Use this guide to match the cleaner and technique to the tire and the contamination present. This decision tool will help you:
Find the right cleaner for lettering and whitewalls
Know what to look for in a dedicated tire cleaner
Match tire cleaners to the type of contamination
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