Frequently Asked Questions
Real answers, written by the team that invented the waterless car wash. Search below or browse all 34 questions.
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01 What is Wash Wax ALL?
Wash Wax ALL is a versatile cleaner and wax suitable for all surfaces, from aircraft to sunglasses. Why only clean when you can clean and protect? Its non-stick, UV-protective coating keeps surfaces cleaner for longer and makes future cleaning easier.
Safe for paint, gel coat, plastic, glass, aluminum, leather, vinyl, rubber, wood, and all other surfaces. For stubborn cleaning or baked-on bugs, pair it with the Aero Scrubber for optimal results. For grease, oil, and exhaust soot, use Wash ALL (Red).
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02 Will Wash Wax ALL scratch the finish?
Wash Wax ALL is a safe, non-abrasive cleaner and wax, formulated to lift dirt without scratching the finish. It is safe to use on surfaces that are free of mud, sand, or road salt — these materials can accumulate during off-road travel, beach or desert driving, and winter road conditions. If you're not on the beach, in the desert, or driving on winter roads, you have nothing to be concerned about. For best results, always follow the instructions on the bottle.
Most scratches are caused by automatic car washes or by using contaminated towels and chamois. To avoid this, use only high-quality, soft towels that are regularly washed, carefully inspected, and stored in a clean, dust-free bag or container. If you ever drop a towel on the ground, discard it and use a new one. We do not recommend chamois unless they are regularly washed and stored properly. Using quality, well-maintained towels will help ensure a flawless, scratch-free finish every time.
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03 What should I do if I have mud, sand, or road salt on the surface?
Always rinse first
Thoroughly rinse the vehicle with fresh water first — this will remove mud, sand, and road salt, preventing the possibility of scratching. Then spray on Wash Wax ALL as you dry. Wash Wax ALL works on either wet or dry surfaces.
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04 What is the shelf life of Wash Wax ALL?
For optimal performance, store products above freezing and below 100°F and use within three years of purchase. If the product has been frozen, it will usually still perform as intended; shake well before use. However, if you notice separation in any product other than Polish ALL, do not use it.
Important
Freezing can also damage the sprayer and may crack the bottle, resulting in leaks.
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05 What does "wet or waterless wash" mean?
Waterless wash: Spray onto a dry surface to clean and wax without hoses, buckets, or moving the vehicle.
Wet wash: Rinse or wash your vehicle as usual, then spray Wash Wax ALL on as you dry — leaving your vehicle washed, dried, and waxed in the same time it normally takes just to dry.
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06 What does "ALL" mean in Wash Wax ALL?
The "ALL" means it's safe on all surfaces. Wash Wax ALL can be used on every part of your vehicle, inside and out. It's also safe for use around the house. Simply spray it on and wipe dry to clean while leaving behind a slick, UV-protective coating on everything you clean.
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07 Where did Wash Wax ALL come from?
Wash Wax ALL was first developed by Aero Cosmetics in 1987 in response to the Storm Water Drainage Act of the same year, an amendment to the Water Quality Act, which restricted traditional vehicle washing methods that created wastewater runoff. It became the first-ever waterless car wash, allowing people to clean their vehicles without a hose, bucket, or wasted water.
Beyond compliance, drivers quickly discovered other benefits: they could wash and wax anywhere, anytime, with no special equipment required — at home, at work, at school, or even in a parking lot.
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08 Is Wash Wax ALL corrosive?
No. Wash Wax ALL is formulated without caustic ingredients and has successfully passed independent laboratory corrosion testing (full results available upon request). It is pH neutral and engineered to be non-reactive and non-destructive to automotive, marine, and aerospace surfaces. It will not compromise paint systems, clear coats, plastics, glass, metals, rubber, or composite materials.
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09 How often should I use Wash Wax ALL and can I use too much too often?
Use Wash Wax ALL each time you wash your vehicle. Its formulation bonds without creating excessive buildup, so repeated applications will not overlayer or cause surface distortion. The non-stick, hydrophobic coating repels water, dirt, and contaminants, keeping surfaces cleaner longer and making future washes easier.
You can apply as frequently as desired — even daily. The protective wax barrier provides UV and environmental protection for up to six months under normal conditions.
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10 Can I use Wash Wax ALL on a hot surface or in direct sunlight?
Direct sunlight does not affect application or performance. If the surface is hot to the touch, use a damp towel after applying Wash Wax ALL to cool the area, then finish with a dry towel. Work in smaller sections, as the Wash Wax ALL will begin to evaporate; it is important to dry the surface before it dries on its own.
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11 What happens if Wash Wax ALL dries before I wipe it off?
Either re-spray the area and wipe dry, or go over the area with a damp towel and then wipe dry with a clean dry towel.
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12 If I wet wash after using Wash Wax ALL, can I use dish soap?
Never use dish soap
Dishwashing soap is a powerful grease-cutting detergent, not a surface-safe automotive cleaner. Its high alkalinity and harsh surfactants can strip protective waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings, leaving the surface unprotected and vulnerable to oxidation, UV damage, and contaminants. Repeated use can dry rubber trim and plastic components and compromise clear coat integrity.
For long-term protection, always use pH-balanced, surface-safe products designed for automotive finishes.
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13 How long will Wash Wax ALL last after it's applied?
The protective coating can last up to 6 months, but durability varies with care. Soap choice, automatic car washes vs. hand washing, and storage (indoors/outdoors, sun/shade) all affect longevity. To maximize protection, use Wash Wax ALL as a waterless wash or spray it on as you dry after a rinse — every time you wash — to maintain continuous protection.
If your vehicle will be stored longer than six months without re-application, apply Wax ALL (White) for up to one year of protection.
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14 Do I need a special wiping technique when waterless washing?
As the inventor of the waterless car wash nearly 40 years ago, we have conducted extensive laboratory and field testing on wiping techniques and applicators for waterless washing. Controlled evaluations — measuring factors such as soil removal efficiency, surface abrasion resistance, and finish uniformity — have consistently demonstrated that a simple side-to-side wiping motion provides the optimal balance of cleaning effectiveness and surface safety. Alternative methods, such as wiping in a single direction while rolling the towel, showed no measurable improvement in outcomes and were deemed operationally inefficient.
Standardized wiping protocol
- For heavily soiled surfaces: after spraying the solution, begin with a damp towel to break down and encapsulate dirt, then follow with a dry towel for removal and finishing.
- For lightly soiled vehicles: the damp towel step is unnecessary.
This technique remains the industry benchmark for achieving maximum results with minimal risk.
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15 Is Wash Wax ALL considered something other than a waterless car wash?
Yes, Wash Wax ALL was originally developed in 1987 as the first true waterless car wash. Shortly thereafter, it was also recognized as an effective "wax-as-you-dry" solution. After rinsing or washing the vehicle, you can simply spray on Wash Wax ALL as you dry, leaving behind a fully waxed finish in the same amount of time it normally takes just to dry.
In addition, Wash Wax ALL became widely used as a quick detailer — a term that emerged when people discovered they could use it to easily refresh their vehicle after light soiling, without the need for a full wash, giving it a fast and convenient spruce-up.
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16 What is the difference between Wash Wax ALL (Blue) and Wax ALL (White)?
Wax ALL (white) is a dedicated wax product and is not designed to clean and protect in a single step. When applying Wax ALL (white), the vehicle should already be thoroughly washed and dried. The primary benefit of Wax ALL (white) is that it extends the protective window for up to one year. However, if you regularly use Wash Wax ALL (Blue) to keep your vehicle clean, your finish will remain continuously protected, making additional applications of Wax ALL (White) generally unnecessary.
- Wash Wax ALL (Blue): Cleans and protects in one step.
- Wax ALL (White): Dedicated wax (not a cleaner). Apply to a clean, dry vehicle to extend protection up to one year.
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17 Is Wash Wax ALL good for use on windows?
Yes. Spray and wipe dry before it evaporates to leave a non-stick, UV-protective coating. Treated glass stays cleaner longer, is easier to maintain, and resists bug adhesion — similar to products like Rain-X. If hazing occurs, wipe with a damp towel followed by a dry towel. The haze is excess wax that has not bonded to the glass.
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18 Is Wash Wax ALL safe to use on aircraft?
Yes. Safe for all aircraft surfaces, interior and exterior. It has undergone independent lab testing and complies with major OEM cleaning specifications, including Boeing D6-17487P and D6-7127M, Airbus 09-00-002, and McDonnell Douglas CDS. The water-based, non-corrosive, ammonia-free formula is compatible with aircraft materials and finishes.
These same qualities also make Wash Wax ALL ideal for automotive, marine, and RV applications, where it provides the same level of protection and safety trusted in the aerospace industry. For copies of the official test reports or specification documents, please contact us directly and we will be pleased to provide them.
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19 Is Wash Wax ALL safe on aircraft windows?
Yes. Safe for plastic and heated glass aircraft windows and meets Boeing and Airbus specifications for approved window cleaners. For departments that require a dedicated, clearly labeled cleaner, we offer the same formula as Plex Wax (identical formulation; different label and color).
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20 Do I have to shake Wash Wax ALL before use like other products?
No. Our water-based formulations are engineered for long-term emulsion stability and validated shelf life. Under normal conditions, no phase separation should occur. If separation is observed, it likely indicates the product was frozen or has exceeded its three-year shelf life.
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21 Has the Wash Wax ALL formula been improved since 1987?
- 1991 Easier application; reduced streaking.
- 1998 Enhanced UV protection; durability extended from ~3 months to up to 6 months.
- 2008 Shelf life validated to up to 3 years.
- 2017 Further improvements for deeper gloss and superior finish.
Today's formula is engineered for effortless application, minimal streaking, long-lasting protection, and exceptional gloss.
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22 Do I have to use soap to wash my car if it has been coated with Wash Wax ALL?
No. Soap is optional. The slick protective coating lets dirt and grime rinse away easily with water. If you choose to use soap, select a high-quality automotive shampoo (e.g., our Wet Wash Shampoo). Never use dishwashing soaps.
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23 What is the difference between Wash Wax ALL (Blue) and Wash ALL (Red)?
- Wash Wax ALL (Blue): Light cleaning and waxing of painted/unpainted surfaces and windows (wet or dry).
- Wash ALL (Red): Degreaser for painted/unpainted surfaces such as wheels, tires, wheel wells, engines, and exhaust areas. Great for removing black streaks on motorhomes.
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24 How do I determine whether to use Wash Wax ALL (Blue) or Wash ALL (Red)?
Most of the time, Wash Wax ALL (Blue) is effective for all-around cleaning and protection. If it doesn't clean as expected, step up to Wash ALL (Red).
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25 Is Wash Wax ALL clear coat safe?
Yes. All our products are safe on all clear-coat finishes.
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26 How much Wash Wax ALL does it take to clean a specific vehicle?
Vehicle Approx. usage Midsize car ~4–6 oz 45-foot motorhome ~16 oz Single-engine aircraft (e.g., Beechcraft Bonanza) ~32 oz Gulfstream corporate jet ~240 oz (≈ 2 gal) Boeing 737 ~640 oz (≈ 5 gal) Boeing 787 ~915 oz (≈ 7.5 gal) Boeing 747 ~1,280 oz (≈ 10 gal) Airbus A380 ~1,920 oz (≈ 15 gal) Based on average exterior surface area and efficient application with proper technique and high-quality towels or mops. Actual usage may vary by condition and soil level.
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27 Is Wash Wax ALL safe on fabric and composite aircraft?
Yes. The key consideration is that any protective coating must be fully removed before repairs. Use the prep solvent supplied by the same paint manufacturer whose system you are using to ensure proper preparation and adhesion.
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28 Is Wash ALL Degreaser safe to use on windows?
Wash ALL Degreaser will not harm glass or plastic, but we do not recommend it on windows because it can leave streaks. For windows, use Wash Wax ALL or Plex Wax.
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29 Is Wash Wax ALL safe to use on floors?
Safety warning
No. Wash Wax ALL may cause slipperiness and is not intended for any surfaces where loss of traction could be hazardous (floors, stairs, controls, pedals, grips).
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30 What is the Aero Bug Scrubber?
The Aero Scrubber is a soft, reusable cleaning pad designed to work with all our products to remove tough contaminants like bugs, carbon, and soot — without scratching. It also works well with Interior Cleaner and Leather Soap on vinyl and leather. Rinse after use and reuse.
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31 What is the warranty on Aero Cosmetics products?
We guarantee product quality against manufacturing defects for the timeframes below. Normal wear and tear and use outside intended purposes are not covered.
Product Warranty Chemical Products 1 Year Mop (Head Only) Lifetime Wooster Pole 3 Years Shur-line Pole 90 Days Microfiber Products 90 Days Aero Scrubbers 90 Days Clay Pad 90 Days Polisher and Polish Pads 90 Days Miscellaneous Tools 90 Days Submitting a warranty claim
If your item is under warranty, contact us for a replacement or refund. Include your Order ID, a brief explanation, and a photo if possible. In some cases, we may request the item be returned before processing — follow the Return Policy if so.
Email: sales@washwax.com
Phone: 210-525-0707 -
32 What makes the Wash Wax Mop so special?
The patented two-sided Wash Wax Mop is the world's first tool specifically invented for waterless washing and waxing. It lets you clean with the reach and leverage of an extension pole, covering larger areas in less time while eliminating ladder risks — customers report up to 50% time savings.
Originally developed for aircraft, its twin wrap-around chenille microfiber pads protect delicate surfaces while delivering superior cleaning and waxing. Trusted by major airlines, corporate flight departments, and the U.S. military, and proudly made in the USA, it's equally effective on RVs, boats, cars, trucks, and buses.
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33 Can I buy the mop head separately and use it on my own pole?
The Wash Wax Mop uses a universal Acme-thread connection (industry standard). It will fit most poles, though compatibility with every brand cannot be guaranteed.
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34 How many mop pads will I need to wash a particular size vehicle?
Vehicle Mop pads needed 45-foot motorhome ~6–8 Beechcraft King Air 200 ~8–10 Gulfstream G550 ~25–35 Boeing 737 ~45–60 Boeing 787 ~65–85 Boeing 747 ~90–115 Airbus A380 ~140–175 Estimates assume efficient technique, proper pre-spray coverage, and timely pad changes. Actual usage varies by soil level, crew size, and conditions.
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