Frequently Asked Questions
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Are our products ecological and biodegradable?
A vehicle should always be washed gently and with plenty of water to avoid scratches and damage to the paint surface.
Throughout the entire wash, the paintwork must stay wet. Dry or only slightly damp surfaces significantly increase the risk of micro-scratches. Coarse dirt should be removed before the actual wash, otherwise sand and dust will act as abrasives.
A careful car wash is the foundation of all further care and serves not only aesthetics but long-term surface protection.
You'll find further step-by-step guides in our car wash tutorials.
All products for paint-safe car washing are in our washing & drying collection.
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How do I wash microfiber cloths, polishing pads, etc.?
A car should not be washed or treated in full sunlight, as water and cleaning products dry too quickly on hot paint.
This leads to water spots, streaks, and uneven results. At the same time, care products cannot develop their full effect because they cannot be worked in evenly. In some cases, this can permanently affect sensitive surfaces.
For a clean and material-safe result, always wash and care for the vehicle in the shade or on fully cooled surfaces.
You'll find further guides in our car wash tutorials.
Tips for proper car washing are in the wash collection and the car wash tutorials.
Detailed guides in our paint care tutorials.
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About microfiber
How often you should wash your vehicle depends on use, weather, and where it is parked.
Regular care protects paint and surfaces from long-term environmental impacts such as dirt, salt, and UV exposure. Vehicle care is therefore not just a cosmetic measure but an important part of preserving value. Especially in summer and winter, consistent care is crucial to prevent damage early.
A well-maintained vehicle requires less intensive correction work in the long run.
Matching care products are in our wash collection or as complete care sets.
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At what point do I use Seal Feed?
Insect residue should always be softened first before being removed.
To do so, soak a clean Swissvax cloth in lukewarm water and place it on the affected spot for about five minutes. The softened residue can then be taken off gently with SWISSVAX Car Bath and a Micro-Wash.
Insect residue must not be rubbed off. Insect sponges or similar aids should not be used, as they can cause micro-scratches in the paint finish.
Waxes, sealants & shine
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About carnauba wax
Carnauba wax has been used for glossy surfaces since the 19th century. Pure, untreated carnauba wax has one decisive drawback: it offers little mechanical resistance and is relatively easy to wipe away. This is precisely where the distinctive character of SWISSVAX formulations comes in.
The secret behind the exceptional durability of SWISSVAX carnauba waxes lies in their composition. Pure carnauba wax is carefully combined with additional waxes, fruit oils, and natural components. This blend is processed in a multi-hour controlled manufacturing process carried out exclusively as handcrafted work. The result is a wax formula that is significantly more durable than pure carnauba wax while preserving the characteristic deep gloss.
To this day, the waxes are handcrafted and filled can by can. Due to the complex composition, these formulations are not suited for industrial mass production. The natural raw materials used also ensure that the waxes leave no white residue on rubber seals, plastic parts, or body edges.
A 200 ml tin lasts for up to 15 applications when used correctly. A perfect result requires a clean and properly prepared paint surface. For this reason, the paint must always be cleaned with Cleaner Fluid Regular before waxing, so that the carnauba wax can bond optimally and develop its full protective effect.
Discover our complete wax collection as well as our exclusive luxury waxes. For optimal adhesion, always prepare the paint with Cleaner Fluid Regular.
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Wax or ceramic coating – what are the pros and cons?
Wax and ceramic coatings follow two different protection concepts and cannot be directly compared.
A ceramic coating primarily offers very high hydrophobicity – meaning strong water and dirt beading. It forms a long-lasting, resilient protective layer on the paint surface. This layer, however, is permanent and affects all future care. Application is more demanding and carries greater risk, since mistakes cannot be easily corrected. Ceramic is not scratchproof but more resistant than wax. Scratches that do occur cannot simply be polished out. After repainting, the ceramic must be reapplied, which can lead to differences compared with already-coated areas. In addition, the care level slowly decreases over time.
A SWISSVAX carnauba wax does not achieve the extreme hydrophobicity of a ceramic coating, but it has clear advantages in gloss depth, wet look, and application. Depending on carnauba content, different gloss characteristics can be achieved. Application is simple and succeeds even without prior experience. Wax can be reapplied at any time, including selectively on heavily stressed or repainted areas. This keeps the care level consistent, since individual zones can be renewed whenever needed.
Ceramic and wax are thus two different systems. If you choose a ceramic coating, the top layer should also be ceramic so that hydrophobicity and hardness are not compromised. If you choose carnauba wax, the top layer should also remain carnauba, otherwise the characteristic wet-look gloss and the pleasant water-drop behavior will be lost.
Combinations
Wax on ceramic is possible, but lasts significantly less – typically no more than about two months.
Ceramic on wax works technically, because the ceramic chemistry partially dissolves the wax.The recommended solution for combining the highest gloss level with high hydrophobicity is a high-quality carnauba wax together with SWISSVAX KERAMIQ9, the water-based ceramic coating by SWISSVAX.
All waxes are in the Wax Collection, the ceramic coating is available as Keramiq9 Carnauba Booster.
Our recommendation for maximum gloss: Carat (81 Vol.%) carnauba wax – our flagship with the highest carnauba content.
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Does a second wax coat make sense?
Yes. A second wax coat is worthwhile and reinforces the existing sealant. The additional application thickens the protective layer, which has two effects: light refraction on the paint surface is intensified, deepening the gloss, while the durability of the sealant is increased.
Between the first and second wax coat, at least three hours should pass. In this time, the first layer can fully bond with the paint surface. Only then should the second coat be applied to build up the protective effect optimally.
The depth effect is particularly striking with our luxury waxes such as Crystal Rock (76 Vol.%) or Mystery (55 Vol.%).
Especially impressive in multi-layer application: Crystal Rock (76 Vol.%) carnauba wax.
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What is PTFE?
PTFE stands for polytetrafluoroethylene. It is a synthetic high-performance polymer from the group of paraffinic polymers, in which hydrogen atoms are partially or fully replaced by fluorine. This chemical structure gives PTFE exceptional material properties.
The original PTFE resin was developed in 1938 by DuPont and became known under the brand name Teflon. PTFE is characterized by an extremely high resistance to chemicals and one of the lowest coefficients of friction of any known material.
Thanks to these properties, PTFE strongly repels dirt, reduces adhesion and friction, and provides a very durable protective film. For this reason, PTFE is used specifically in car care – for example, in rim sealants to noticeably reduce the adhesion of brake dust, dirt, and road salt.
Swissvax uses PTFE in, among others, the Autobahn rim wax and the Shield carnauba wax. See all PTFE waxes at a glance.
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Do I apply Lotos Speed after waxing?
Yes. SWISSVAX Lotos Speed can be applied on top of an existing wax sealant. This makes the surface even more water-repellent and extends the durability of the protective layer.
Between waxing and applying Lotos Speed, at least three hours should pass. In this time, the wax can fully bond with the paint surface. Only then will Lotos Speed deliver the desired additional protection.
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What level of gloss does KERAMIQ9 provide without prior treatment with Cleaner Fluid and wax?
SWISSVAX KERAMIQ9 does not change the level of gloss. The sealant lays down transparently on the surface without adding color depth or gloss. That is why KERAMIQ9 is also suitable for matte paints and matte wraps, where the original gloss level must remain unchanged.
Gloss is fundamentally created by reflection and saturation. Neither factor is produced by the ceramic coating itself, but rather by a perfectly prepared surface. Intensive paint preparation with Cleaner Fluid followed by wax enhances gloss and color depth. KERAMIQ9 preserves this state but does not create it on its own.
The full Keramiq9 series is in our Keramiq9 Collection.
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Does Swissvax offer a ceramic coating?
Yes. SWISSVAX KERAMIQ9 is an infused water-based ceramic coating for private and professional users. It is easy to apply, strongly water-repellent, and can be removed when needed.
KERAMIQ9 extends the durability of paint surfaces treated with SWISSVAX polishes and waxes by several months. The sealant preserves the previously achieved condition but does not generate additional gloss without proper preparation.
Available as the Keramiq9 Carnauba Booster or as the complete Keramiq9 Kit with all accessories.
Available as a single booster or as a complete Keramiq9 Kit with accessories.
Polishes & application
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Which wax can I polish with? What is the difference between wax and polish?
Wax is not used for polishing. Polishing is done exclusively with a polish, never with a wax.
In everyday speech, the term "car wax" is often incorrectly used to refer to polishes. Technically, however, these are two clearly distinct product categories with different purposes.
A polish is used for paint correction. It is typically liquid, contains water, solvents, and finely calibrated abrasives. As it is applied and worked into the surface, paint defects such as fine scratches, holograms, or swirl marks are reduced and the surface is smoothed. Polishes can be worked by hand or with a polisher. SWISSVAX polishes – the so-called Cleaner Fluids – are formulated to work in a controlled way and prevent over-polishing.
A wax, by contrast, is completely free of abrasives. It does not correct paint but seals it. Pure carnauba waxes protect the previously prepared paint surface, intensify the gloss, and create a natural, long-lasting protective layer.
SWISSVAX paint care therefore always follows a clear sequence: first the paint is washed, then cleaned and, if needed, polished, and only as the last step sealed with a carnauba wax. Wax is never used for paint correction but always on an already clean and smooth surface.
All Swissvax polishes are in the Car Polish Collection, all waxes are in the Wax Collection. Step-by-step guides are in our paint care tutorials.
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Why can't I use Cleaner Fluid hand polish with a machine polisher?
The SWISSVAX Cleaner Fluid polishes and the SWISSVAX Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes differ mainly in their viscosity and processing characteristics. Hand polishes are formulated to be significantly more fluid, while machine polishes are firmer and more stable.
Cleaner Fluid Regular is therefore not suitable for machine polishing. Due to the high rotation speed of a polisher, this too-liquid product would splatter considerably, spread unevenly, and fail to deliver a controlled polishing result. For machine work, Cleaner Fluid Professional Regular is the right product, as this formulation was developed for machine loads, controlled product release, and clean working.
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What does the Cut Performance of Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes mean?
Cut Performance describes the abrasive power of a machine polish on a scale of 0 to 100.
0 stands for no cut, 100 for maximum cut.For the SWISSVAX Cleaner Fluid Professional polishes, the classification is as follows:
Cleaner Fluid Professional Regular sits at a cut value of 22. This polish is very finely balanced and allows for 1-step polishing, as it offers sufficient paint correction while still achieving a clean finish.
Cleaner Fluid Professional Medium sits at a cut value of 30. Here too, 1-step polishing is possible, since the cut remains below the threshold at which a separate finishing step becomes mandatory.
Cleaner Fluid Professional Strong reaches a cut value of 51. From this level onward, 2-step polishing is necessary, because the cut is above the finish threshold. Finish cut starts at about 55, which is why a finer finishing polish must be used after correction with Strong.
An important point is technique: the longer you work a polish in what is called the start cut, the finer and more uniform the resulting finish becomes. Even so, a polish with a high base cut cannot replace a dedicated finishing polish.
The Professional Regular version is not comparable to the hand polish. It is a standalone nano polish, developed specifically for machine use, and is the softest of the three Professional polishes. It is aimed at machine users who want to achieve as much correction and finish as possible in a single step.
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Quick Finish, Nano Express and Lotos Speed – when to use which?
SWISSVAX offers three detailing sprays with clearly distinct purposes. They are not interchangeable and cover different situations.
SWISSVAX Quick Finish is used for quick cleaning in between. It removes light dust in the showroom or garage as well as fresh insect residue, bird droppings, tree sap, water spots, and similar light contamination. Quick Finish is applied to paint, glass, chrome, wheels, and plastics – textiles excepted. It cleans but does not seal.
SWISSVAX Nano Express is a paint and plastic refresher. It is used when full paint preparation is not possible – for example, after automated car washes, on used cars, rental cars, or auction vehicles. Nano Express refreshes color depth and temporarily masks car-wash haze and fine micro-scratches for about one month. It is also excellent for conditioning plastics, acrylic windows, vinyl rear windows, door jambs, and sills. Typical application time per vehicle is around 30 minutes.
SWISSVAX Lotos Speed is a quick sealant for already cleaned surfaces. It is ideally applied directly after washing and drying the vehicle. Lotos Speed delivers a very smooth and strongly water-repellent surface on exterior paint and glass for about one month. It can also be used on selected smooth surfaces in the interior, such as high-gloss lacquered wood. Lotos Speed is not compatible with KERAMIQ9.
Leather care & leather types
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What types of leather are found in a car and how do they differ?
Different types of leather and leather-like materials are used in the vehicle interior, each with clearly different construction, appearance, and care requirements. Smooth leather is surface-sealed, resilient, and easy to maintain. Open-pore leather such as aniline leather is natural, breathable, and particularly sensitive to moisture, dirt, and abrasion. Vegan leather is a synthetic material that visually resembles leather but ages differently and requires material-appropriate, gentle care. Alcantara is not leather but a synthetic suede-like material with a fine fiber structure, requiring a completely different cleaning method.
Each of these surfaces reacts differently to cleaners, moisture, and mechanical stress. That is why tailored care is essential to preserve appearance, feel, and durability over the long term.
All products are in our Leather Care Collection. Detailed guides are on our leather care page and in the leather tutorials.
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How can I tell if my leather is open-pore or finished?
Whether leather is open-pore or finished can be determined with a simple water test on an inconspicuous spot. If a small drop of water absorbs into the leather within a short time and darkens the area, it is open-pore leather such as aniline leather. If the drop stays on the surface and can be wiped off, the leather is surface-sealed, meaning it is finished smooth leather.
Open-pore leather is natural, breathable, and particularly sensitive to moisture and dirt. Finished smooth leather has a protective color layer, is more resilient, and easier to care for.
More on our leather care page.
For gentle cleaning of both leather types, use Leather Cleaner.
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How do I properly clean smooth leather in my car?
Depending on the level of soiling, smooth leather is cleaned with SWISSVAX Leather Cleaner or SWISSVAX Leather Cleaner Forte. The cleaner is applied gently and the loosened dirt is then taken up with a soft, clean cloth.
Light to normal soiling can be removed with Leather Cleaner. For heavier dirt, discoloration, or heavily used contact zones, Leather Cleaner Forte is used. In both cases, the surface remains supple and is not attacked, since cleaning takes place without aggressive solvents.
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Does new leather need care or just protection?
New smooth leather does not require conditioning, as it is sufficiently nourished from the factory. However, it should be protected from the start to prevent early wear, abrasion, and denim dye transfer. For this, SWISSVAX Leather Glaze is used.
Leather Glaze forms an invisible protective layer on the leather surface that reduces friction and makes it significantly harder for dyes to penetrate. This keeps the leather clean, uniform, and visually like-new for longer, without changing its feel.
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How do I care for used or dry leather?
Used or dry smooth leather is conditioned after cleaning with SWISSVAX Leather Milk. The conditioner is applied sparingly, absorbs into the material, and keeps the leather supple. At the same time, the leather is protected from further drying out and premature wear.
Leather Milk restores moisture to stressed leather, improves the feel, and supports the natural elasticity without over-oiling the surface or making it look greasy.
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Which leather types should I NOT treat with SWISSVAX leather products?
SWISSVAX leather products for smooth leather must not be used on buffalo leather or suede leather. These leather types have a different fiber structure and react sensitively to smooth-leather cleaners and conditioners.
Open-pore leather such as aniline leather must also not be treated with strong cleaners like SWISSVAX Leather Cleaner Forte or with brushes. Overly intensive cleaning can damage the open structure, cause stains, or permanently alter the surface.
For sensitive leather types, the rule is always: clean according to material, work without pressure, and use only products intended for that purpose.
All matching products in the Leather Care Collection.
For all compatible leather types, you will find matching Leather Care Sets.
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How do I care for vegan leather in my car?
Vegan leather is cleaned and protected as needed, but does not require conditioning emulsions like those used on genuine leather. For material-appropriate cleaning, SWISSVAX Vegan Leather Cleaner is used.
The cleaner removes dirt gently, preserves the elasticity of the material, and protects against drying and cracking. The surface is cleaned without being over-conditioned or made to look greasy. Depending on surface texture, it is applied with a soft cleaning brush or sponge, and then wiped with a clean cloth.
Vegan leather is a synthetic material with a different aging behavior than genuine leather. Classic leather care products are therefore unsuitable and can negatively affect the surface over time.
Interior & cockpit care
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How do I properly clean the interior?
Interior cleaning always starts with thorough vacuuming to remove loose dirt. A vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle is best, and floor mats and loose carpets should ideally be removed first.
Textile surfaces such as seats, carpets, headliner, or floor mats are then cleaned with SWISSVAX Fabric . The textile cleaner removes dirt gently without leaving cleaning rings and is suitable for all textile materials in the interior.
Plastics and vinyl surfaces are then cleaned with SWISSVAX Plastic Wash. It provides deep-pore cleaning and forms the basis for subsequent conditioning or sealing, without attacking the surface or making it look greasy.
Following this sequence keeps the interior hygienically clean, appropriately cared for, and uniform in appearance.
All products and guides are on our interior care page.
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How do I care for sensitive surfaces like piano black finish or screens?
Sensitive surfaces such as piano black finishes, displays, and high-gloss interior parts are cleaned gently with SWISSVAX Quick Interior Finish and a SWISSVAX Micro Polish. Fingerprints, dust, and light soiling can be removed streak-free without causing micro-scratches.
Quick Interior Finish is antistatic and solvent-free. It does not attack sensitive surfaces, reduces subsequent dust attraction, and preserves the original finish of piano black and screens.
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How are interior plastic surfaces cared for?
Interior plastic and vinyl surfaces are first thoroughly cleaned with SWISSVAX Plastic Wash. This deep-pore cleaning removes dirt, skin oils, and deposits and creates the necessary basis for even conditioning.
After cleaning, SWISSVAX Protecton provides intensive deep conditioning and rich, even protection. For matte surfaces or when a matte finish is desired, SWISSVAX Protecton Matt is used. Both products protect against drying out, discoloration, and premature material wear.
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How do I protect wheels from brake dust and salt long term?
For long-term protection, SWISSVAX Autobahn rim wax is used. It forms a heat-resistant protective layer based on carnauba wax enriched with PTFE. This protective layer makes it harder for brake dust, salt, and road grime to adhere and significantly eases subsequent cleaning.
Thanks to its high temperature resistance, Autobahn rim wax is also suitable for heavily used wheels. Brake dust can settle less readily, salt and moisture do not penetrate the surface, and existing wheel coatings are protected. This helps prevent corrosion and permanent surface damage.
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How do I properly care for tires and whitewall tires?
Tires are conditioned with SWISSVAX Pneu . The tire conditioner supplies the rubber compound with moisture, protects against drying and cracking, and produces a uniform, deep-black appearance. Application is on clean and dry tire sidewalls by spraying or targeted application with a brush or hand puck.
Whitewall tires are first cleaned with SWISSVAX Pneu White . This specialized cleaner reliably removes yellowing and stubborn dirt without attacking the material. After cleaning and drying, Swissvax Pneu can also be applied to the black rubber areas of whitewall tires for protection and shine.
Wheels & tires
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How do I seal matte-painted wheels?
Matte-painted wheels are sealed in several short work steps to preserve the matte appearance while building up protection against dirt and brake dust.
The wheels are first thoroughly washed and completely dried. Then a small section is sprayed with Pre Cleaner Opaque and gently wiped off within about 10 to 15 seconds. This step is repeated section by section so the surface is clean and optimally prepared for sealing.
For the actual sealing, Autobahn wax is applied to a small section. After a short flash-off of about 10 to 15 seconds, the wax is carefully buffed off. The next section follows until the entire wheel is evenly protected.
This method preserves the matte effect in full while making the wheel more resistant to contamination and easier to clean going forward.
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Why are there two wheel cleaners – Wheel or Wheel Spray Forte?
SWISSVAX offers two wheel cleaners because wheels have different requirements depending on use, care history, and soiling. Wheel and Wheel Spray Forte deliberately follow two different cleaning approaches.
SWISSVAX Wheel is a classic wheel cleaner concentrate based on natural active ingredients such as peppermint oil. It is diluted with water depending on the soiling and is especially suitable for regularly maintained or lightly to normally soiled wheels. Thanks to the variable concentration, only as much cleaning power is used as necessary, which protects the existing wax sealant. In addition, Wheel is very economical and space-saving when traveling, since only the concentrate needs to be carried.
For heavily neglected wheels with baked-on brake dust, however, Wheel can reach its limits. Its low viscosity also means you have to re-spray several times during cleaning.
For such cases, SWISSVAX Wheel Spray Forte was developed. This modern wheel cleaner is acid- and phosphate-free, based on sulfur-capolate chemistry, and can be applied to any wheel surface, including painted and magnesium wheels. An integrated color indicator shows when the cleaning action starts and when it is complete. Due to its higher cleaning activity and thicker consistency, Wheel Spray Forte adheres better and reliably removes stubborn dirt.
The downsides of Wheel Spray Forte are lower economy and fixed concentration. In addition, the product has a mild sulfuric odor that is technically unavoidable. Because of the stronger cleaning action, the durability of an existing wax sealant may be slightly shorter than with regular Wheel cleaning.
In practice, Wheel is ideal for regular everyday use, especially on well-maintained vehicles in moderate driving conditions. Wheel Spray Forte is the right choice for heavily soiled wheels, after long highway drives, or when wheels have not been cleaned for a longer time.
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Why should wheel cleaning come before washing the car?
Wheel cleaning should always be done before the car wash, because brake dust, metal particles, and heavy soiling can otherwise end up on already-cleaned paint surfaces. Brake dust is highly adhesive and can permanently damage the wheel surface if not removed thoroughly and regularly.
Wheel cleaning uses more aggressive cleaners, brushes, and large amounts of water. If the wheels were cleaned only after the paintwork, loosened dirt particles, cleaner residues, and splash water could land back on the paint and compromise the wash result. There is also an increased risk of micro-scratches when dirt is transferred from the wheels to already-clean paint surfaces.
By cleaning wheels first, then paint, the wash result remains clean, uniform, and protected in the long term. At the same time, this sequence ensures that brake dust does not cause permanent damage to the wheel surface and that existing wax sealants are preserved optimally.
All products and guides are on our wheel care page and in the wheel care tutorials.
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How do I remove insect residue from the paintwork?
Insect residue should always be softened first before being removed.
To do so, soak a clean Swissvax cloth in lukewarm water and place it on the affected area for about five minutes. The softened residue can then be taken off gently with SWISSVAX Car Bath and a Micro-Wash.
Insect residue must not be rubbed off. Insect sponges or similar aids should not be used, as they can cause micro-scratches in the paint finish.
Matte paint & matte surfaces
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Opaque – for matte paints and matte wraps
On matte-painted or matte-wrapped surfaces, standard polishes, waxes, insect removers, or insect sponges must not be used. Such products smooth the surface and permanently shift the matte appearance toward gloss.
To preserve the characteristic finish of matte paints and matte wraps, the SWISSVAX products of the Linie Opaque were developed specifically for these surfaces. They are precisely tuned to the structure and sensitivity of matte surfaces and do not alter the finish.
The Opaque Premium wax contains 40 percent by volume of pure Brazilian Grade One carnauba wax. It reliably protects matte surfaces against fingerprints, dirt, water spots, and insect residue, without changing the matte effect. The appearance remains uniformly matte while the surface becomes more resilient and easier to clean. Thanks to very simple application, the Opaque wax is suitable for both private and professional users.
For an even and lasting result, the surface must always be prepared before waxing with the Pre Cleaner Opaque. Only then can the wax adhere correctly and fully develop its protective effect.
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Can I polish matte paint?
No. Matte paints and matte wraps must not be polished, because polishing smooths the surface structure and permanently shifts the matte appearance toward gloss. For this reason, there is no polish for matte surfaces.
Before sealing, however, the surface must still be cleaned and properly prepared. The paint is cleaned with Swissvax Pre Cleaner Opaque and prepared to accept the wax without altering the matte finish.
Complete matte paint care sets are in our Opaque Sets Collection.
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How do I properly wash a matte-painted vehicle?
A matte-painted or matte-wrapped vehicle is washed exclusively with Car Bath Opaque, because this shampoo contains no gloss enhancers or brighteners. This preserves the matte appearance in full. After washing, the vehicle is gently dried with the Ultra-Dry.
Conventional car shampoos and care products are unsuitable for matte surfaces, as they may contain abrasive components or gloss additives. These would attack the silky matte structure or create unwanted gloss. This is also why there are no classic polishes for matte paint.
Car Bath Opaque is dosed sparingly in the wash water and the vehicle is washed from top to bottom. Regular cleaning removes dirt, dust, and environmental deposits without changing the sensitive surface and forms the basis for any further care or sealing within the Opaque series.
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Which wax sealant is suitable for matte paint?
For matte-painted and matte-wrapped surfaces, the SWISSVAX Opaque wax is suitable. It was developed specifically for matte surfaces and protects against micro-scratches and rapid re-soiling without changing the matte effect or producing gloss.
The Opaque wax creates a uniform protective layer that makes the surface more resilient and easier to clean. The matte appearance is preserved in full. For an optimal result, prior cleaning and preparation with the Pre Cleaner Opaque is required.
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How do I remove fingerprints or light soiling on matte paint?
Light soiling and fingerprints on matte-painted or matte-wrapped surfaces are removed with SWISSVAX Quick Finish Opaque. The product is sprayed on and then gently wiped with a Micro Polish cloth.
Quick Finish Opaque is specially formulated for matte surfaces and removes light contamination without producing gloss or attacking the sensitive surface structure. The matte appearance is preserved in full and the surface looks evenly cared for.
PPF & film care
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Why do PPF protective films need regular care?
PPF protective films need regular care because they are continuously exposed to UV radiation, dirt, environmental deposits, and chemical stress. Without care, the material can lose elasticity over time, become brittle, and lose its protective effect.
Paint protection films reliably protect the paint from stone chips and external influences, especially in the front area. Regardless of whether the film is transparent, glossy, colored, or matte, all PPF materials age due to sunlight, air pollution, insect residue, and limescale deposits. These influences attack the surface of the film and can promote water spots, adhesion issues, and reduced self-healing capability.
Regular care with PPF-specific SWISSVAX PPF products preserves the film's flexibility, stabilizes the surface, and supports its original protective properties. At the same time, water and dirt repellency are improved, so deposits are easier to remove and the risk of limescale and water spots is significantly reduced.
SWISSVAX has developed dedicated care, wax, and sealing solutions for PPF that are aligned with the chemical structure of protective films. This keeps the film visually high-quality, functionally robust, and protected over the long term, without compromising its material properties.
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Which wax is suitable for PPF?
For PPF protective films, SWISSVAX PPF wax with 40 percent carnauba wax is the right choice. It was developed specifically for wrapped vehicles and is aligned with the chemical structure of paint protection films.
The wax preserves the film's gloss, supports its elasticity, and provides additional protection against UV stress. When applied correctly, durability is around 6 to 9 months. This can lengthen or shorten depending on use, environmental influences, and regular care with suitable SWISSVAX products. If unsuitable cleaners or aggressive wash chemistry are used, durability will be reduced accordingly.
The high content of natural carnauba wax protects the film's surface without compromising its material structure or function.
Complete PPF care sets are in our PPF Collection.
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Can you polish PPF?
Yes. PPF protective films can be worked with dedicated SWISSVAX products either by hand or with a machine polisher. Suitable polishes allow fine scratches, light scuffs, and holograms to be reduced without compromising the structure or protective function of the film.
It is important to use only products designed for PPF. Unsuitable or overly aggressive polishes can damage the surface of the film, impair its self-healing properties, or cause gloss differences. When used correctly, the film remains functional, visually uniform, and protected long term.
Suitable polishes: Cleaner Fluid Regular by hand, CF Professional Regular by machine. For matte PPF: Pre-Cleaner Opaque instead of polishing.
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Which ceramic coating is suitable for PPF?
For PPF protective films, KERAMIQ⁹ is suitable. The ceramic coating offers up to 12 months of protection and is compatible with PPF films. It can be applied one day after waxing and reinforces the existing wax sealant without compromising the film structure.
KERAMIQ⁹ creates a very smooth, water-repellent surface and provides additional protection from environmental influences. Application is safe for private users, free from toxic fumes, and possible across material types. If needed, the sealant can be removed cleanly and residue-free with SWISSVAX Prep Fluid.
Care accessories & materials
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How do I properly wash microfiber towels, polishing pads, and applicators?
Microfiber towels, polishing pads, and applicators are washed at 40 degrees, without fabric softener.
Fabric softener clogs the microfibers and reduces cleaning performance, absorbency, and service life. Temperatures that are too high or unsuitable wash programs can permanently damage hook-and-loop surfaces, foam structure, and fiber bonding.
Always wash microfiber towels and textiles such as white Cleaner Pads, Wax Pads, polishing pads, and hand pucks separately from other textiles, in particular separately from drying towels and glass microfiber towels. Do not mix textiles with wax or polish residue with normal cleaning towels.
For polishing pads, if available, choose a machine program with extra or additional water so that residues are fully rinsed out and the pad retains its original performance.
All microfiber towels and replacements are in our Microfiber Collection.
For gentle machine washing we recommend our Laundry wash emulsion for microfiber towels – specifically developed for microfiber, without fabric softeners or surfactants that clog the fibers.
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About microfiber
Microfiber towels differ significantly in quality and performance. What matters is not appearance but fiber construction, material blend, and workmanship.
High-quality microfiber towels can absorb seven to eight times their own weight in liquid. This is only possible when the fibers are split. This elaborate manufacturing process creates a significantly larger absorbent surface. Cheap mass-produced towels usually use unsplit fibers, since the splitting process is expensive. Absorbency is correspondingly much lower.
Another quality factor is microfiber fineness. High-quality towels consist of genuine microfibers with a thickness of about 0.01 to 0.02 denier. The finer the fiber and the higher the fiber density in the weave, the better the cleaning performance and dirt pickup. Cheap towels use considerably thicker fibers up to 0.5 denier or more, roughly the thickness of a normal polyester thread.
The fabric itself is also decisive. A blend of 80 percent polyester and 20 percent polyamide is today's quality standard. The SWISSVAX 70/30 blend can take up liquids even faster and more effectively, as the polyamide share is substantially higher. Polyamide is considerably more expensive than polyester, which is why cheap towels are often made from 100 percent polyester or contain only very small polyamide shares. This noticeably reduces absorbency.
For use on automotive paint, the finishing of the edges is also central. Suitable are microfiber towels without a seam, with a sealed edge, or with a silk-weave edge. Towels with a sewn seam can cause scratches or marring on sensitive paint surfaces and are therefore not recommended for vehicle care.
All Swissvax microfiber towels – laser-cut and with 70/30 blend – in our Microfiber Collection.
All Swissvax microfiber towels with 70/30 polyamide content are in our Microfiber Collection.
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At what point do I apply Seal Feed?
Seal Feed is used when rubber seals or plastic parts are already aged, dried out, or weathered. For new seals and new plastic parts, Protecton is the appropriate initial sealing.
Seal Feed is an intensive treatment that preserves elasticity, reduces drying out, and supports the regeneration of existing materials. New components do not yet need this intensive care, but benefit instead from preventive sealing.
Application frequency depends strongly on climate. In Central and Northern Europe, one to two applications per year are sufficient. In regions with high UV exposure and extreme heat, such as Texas, Arizona, or the Middle East, Seal Feed should be applied considerably more often – typically monthly.
Service, consulting & Swissvax
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How long do SWISSVAX products last?
The shelf life of SWISSVAX products depends on the product category and proper storage. SWISSVAX waxes keep for about seven to ten years when stored closed and undamaged. For the rest of the assortment, a minimum shelf life of two years applies, provided the products are stored properly.
Storage temperature has a major influence on shelf life. Ideal is cool, dry storage at about 10 to 14 degrees, for example in a basement. Products should be protected from frost as well as from temperatures above 30 degrees, as extreme temperatures can compromise the formulation.
For liquid products, we recommend shaking well before each use to ensure an even distribution of active ingredients.
Our care sets are an ideal starting point, and our tutorials show the optimal application.
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Buying products and on-site consulting in Fällanden
At the Swissvax AG flagship store and car detailing center, we provide personal consulting and enable direct on-site purchasing of our products at our headquarters.
You will receive a free quote for vehicle detailing directly on-site from our experts. An appointment is not required.
Address
Tämperlistrasse 3
8117 FällandenContact
Phone: +41 840 851 851
Email: customerservice@swissvax.comOpening hours
Monday to Friday
08:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:30More on our OEM partnerships is on the Partners page.
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How much does a vehicle detail cost?
The cost of vehicle detailing is individual and depends on the vehicle type, condition, desired scope, and care goal. For this reason, we do not offer flat rates but instead create a quote tailored to your vehicle.
At the Swissvax AG car detailing center, we take the time for personal consultation even on a spontaneous visit. After a brief inspection of your vehicle, you will receive a free, non-binding quote.
Address
Tämperlistrasse 3
8117 FällandenContact
Phone: +41 840 851 851
Email: customerservice@swissvax.comOpening hours
Monday to Friday
08:00 – 12:00
13:00 – 17:30Our premium carnauba waxes, also used in professional detailing, are in our Luxury Waxes Collection.
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Are our products ecological and biodegradable?
SWISSVAX products are as natural and environmentally compatible as possible, without compromising on effectiveness and material protection. We deliberately describe this approach as "best natural" – as natural as technically reasonable.
This philosophy goes back to 1930, when Hans Anwander originally developed care products for personal use. From the start, the goal was to create products that are safe for users and the environment – long before terms like "ecological" or "sustainable" became established.
Today, SWISSVAX products meet even strict international GHS norms and are classified as neither hazardous goods nor harmful to health. They are used worldwide in over 30 countries.
When it comes to ingredients, we rely specifically on natural components. Our wheel cleaner Wheel is based, among other things, on peppermint oil. Our waxes consist largely of high-quality carnauba wax, beeswax, and natural fruit oils. We use exclusively Grade One carnauba wax of cosmetic quality. This is hand-scraped from carnauba palm leaves and not chemically extracted.
As with all cleaning products in daily life – including hair shampoos or detergents – soaps, surfactants, and phosphates are used. These are fundamentally biodegradable. What is decisive, however, is the amount used. Excessively high concentrations can pollute waterways and impair water quality. That is why SWISSVAX products are highly concentrated and designed for maximum effect at minimum dosage, recognizable by the comparatively small containers.
More on our philosophy on the About Swissvax page.