Chamois vs Microfibre Drying
Quick answer: A chamois is a flat leather or PVA sheet that squeezes water off paint but can drag and induce marring. A microfibre drying towel uses a plush or twisted pile to absorb and trap water and grit with less friction, so it is the safer, preferred method for modern clear coats and coatings.
What it means
Chamois: natural leather or synthetic PVA sheets used to squeegee and wring. Low pile means high surface contact and little room to encapsulate particles.
Microfibre: woven polyester–polyamide with a deep or twisted pile that wicks water into the towel and lifts residues away from the paint. Available in high-GSM plush or high-capacity twisted-loop towels for fast, low-drag drying.
Why it matters
- Finish safety: pile in microfibre reduces drag and hides stray grit, lowering the risk of wash marring.
- Efficiency: modern twisted-loop towels hold more water per pass and reduce wringing.
- Compatibility: microfibre works well with drying aids and coated paint, preserving beading/sheeting.
- Consistency: fewer streaks and smears compared with chamois on hydrophobic finishes.
Where you’ll see it
Maintenance wash stages after a pH-neutral shampoo or touchless rinse, handover prep, and post-coating care where low-friction drying is essential.
Context
Car Paint Protection; Maintenance wash
Common mistakes
- Dragging a chamois across lightly dusty paint – flat contact can create fine scratches.
- Using low-quality microfibre that sheds lint or has hard stitched edges that can mar.
- Skipping a drying aid on hydrophobic coatings – it reduces drag and water spotting.
- Wringing a filthy towel and carrying on – swap to a fresh face or a second towel.
- Laundering microfibre with fabric softener – it kills absorbency and streaks glass and paint.
- Pressing hard to chase every last droplet – pat and glide with light pressure, or finish with an air blower.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 10/11/2025 17:22