Using APC+ to clean pads

[ClearlyCoated]

I read this on AutoGeek. I hadn't considered using APC+ to clean pads, and even Mike Phillips chimed in with a recommendation to protect your hands if you used this method. But is there any negative effects on the pads for using APC+ to clean them?

I used APC+ at ~8/1 to clean a couple stubborn 6 1/2" LC flat pads. I gotta say that I was completely impressed with how well it worked (I wash my pads by hand). I've been happy with Snappy Clean for cleaning out polish, but wax and sealant have always been a PITA to get out of my pads.

I had a blue pad (used to apply Max Wax many times, and Auto Glym HD most recently) that was so clogged with wax (the pad had been left out and nearly dried with wax still in it). Even after multiple hand washes and rinses. I thought there was nothing more I could do for it. And a gray pad used with XMT 360 was just slightly "stained" with polish residue. APC+ brought them both to like new in a few seconds, and rinsed out very easily. I almost re-washed the 6 polish/compound pads I had just finished because the results were so good. You don't know how happy I was to get these pads so clean so easily, hand washing *****!.

[HCAD]

Re: Using APC+ to clean pads

I hope not, it's what I've been using. Well, APC or APC+. Works great. I should probably heed the warning about wearing gloves though.

[MrCLRider]

Re: Using APC+ to clean pads

Hmm, I thought everyone cleaned them that way.

[xantonin]

Re: Using APC+ to clean pads

Never tried this. Would it work with just APC or does it have to be +?

[StadiumDetail]

Re: Using APC+ to clean pads

Tried it before, I still like Dawn better plus it is easier on the hands.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Using APC+ to clean pads

We know several people who spray the face of their pads with APC or APC+ before throwing them in the washing machine (assuming Soft Buff 2.0 pads here) and nobody thus far has reported any problems.

Still, we would not recommend a strong dilution ratio (most we've heard are using 10:1 ratios) nor would we recommend overuse of the product. You really don't want to have any left behind after washing/rinsing so very thorough rinsing is important if you do this.

Best of all, though, would be to not let your pads get so saturated - like the original poster says happened - so that you don't need to take such drastic measures in the first place. Do that and the pads should wash out just fine in the washing machine, which is all we do here at Meguiar's Garage.