Chemical Guys Clean Slate deep surface cleaning wash soap — Citrus 64 oz, prep wash for coatings & wraps

Chemical Guys Clean Slate is a concentrated citrus-scented wash that strips waxes, sealants, oils, and residues so new protection and wraps bond directly to paint.

Clean Slate Deep Surface Cleaning Wash (Citrus, 64 oz) is formulated for professional-grade prep work before polishing, coating, or installing vinyl and clear bras. Its powerful yet paint-safe surfactants dissolve leftover wax and sealant layers without aggressive abrasion, making clay bar work and polishing cleaner and faster. Use it in a two-bucket hand wash or through a foam cannon to lift contaminants and leave a neutral surface ready for the next detailing step.

How does Clean Slate prepare paint for waxing, coatings, or wraps?

Clean Slate removes the thin films of wax, oils, and sealants that can block adhesion and create hazy results. By dissolving these residues, it ensures new products contact the actual paint surface for stronger bonds and longer-lasting results.

• Dissolves old waxes and sealants for better bonding
• Removes polishing oils that interfere with coatings
• Makes vinyl and clear bra installation more secure
• Reduces residue transfer to polishing pads and clay bars

What are the recommended ways to use this wash safely?

Chemical Guys recommends either the traditional two-bucket method or a foam cannon/gun for application. Both approaches lift dirt and residues while minimizing swirl marks when you follow safe washing techniques and use clean mitts and water buckets.

• Two-bucket wash: mix 1 oz per 5 gallons, top-to-bottom washing with a chenille mitt
• Foam cannon: mix 2 oz with warm water in the foam bottle and adjust for desired foam
• Rinse mitt in a separate clean-water bucket between passes
• Keep a separate bucket for wheels and tires to avoid cross-contamination

Which surfaces and vehicles can this cleanser be used on?

Clean Slate is formulated to be safe on automotive paint of all colors and on a broad range of vehicle makes, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and many RVs. It is intended for exterior painted surfaces prior to detailing steps rather than for interior fabrics or delicate decals unless manufacturer guidance allows.

• Safe on all automotive paint colors and clear coats
• Compatible with most car, truck, SUV, and RV brands
• Designed for exterior paint prep before polishing, coating, or wrapping
• Not for interior upholstery cleaning unless specified

How does Clean Slate fit into a professional detailing workflow?

Professional detailers use Clean Slate as a preparation step to eliminate barriers between fresh protectants and the paint. It’s applied before clay bar decontamination, polishing, or final coating to improve efficiency and final adhesion.

• Use before clay bar to speed decontamination
• Wash after polishing to remove oils prior to coatings
• Strip old products prior to wrap or clear bra installation
• Helps prevent residue build-up on pads and buffing tools

Who is this for? Clean Slate is aimed at car enthusiasts, professional detailers, and wrap installers who need a reliable surface cleanser that clears waxes, sealants, and oils without harming paint color or finish. If you prepare vehicles for polishing, ceramic coatings, vinyl wraps, or protective films, this concentrated 64 oz bottle provides a cost-effective way to ensure new products adhere cleanly and last longer. Always follow the label directions and test any new product on a small area if unsure.