Chamois

A car chamois, often spelt shammy, is a soft, absorbent sheet used to dry a vehicle after washing. Traditional chamois were made from leather. Most chamois used today, including all of ours, are synthetic, made from PVA, PVC or PU-coated microfibre. They absorb water quickly and wipe paint and glass dry without streaks.

For most cars, a PVA chamois is the best choice because it absorbs a lot of water and glides across paint without sticking. Our 66x43cm PVA chamois has a double-faced dimple design for more surface contact. If you prefer a cloth-like feel, the 70x58cm PU-coated microfibre chamois is larger and covers more of the car per wipe.

Synthetic chamois are cheaper, more consistent, and easier to clean than leather chamois. They can be machine washed and do not need oiling, and they suit buyers who avoid animal products. Leather chamois feel softer to some users but need more care and dry out if stored badly.

Both work well. A chamois wipes a panel dry in one pass and is easy to wring out, which suits quick drying and car washes. A large twist loop or plush microfibre drying towel holds more water before it needs wringing and is gentler on soft paint. Many detailers use a drying towel on paint and a chamois on glass and trim.

Wet the chamois and wring it out before you start, because a damp PVA chamois absorbs better than a dry one. Lay it flat on the panel and pull it towards you, then wring it out as it fills up. Work from the roof down and finish the glass last. Rinse grit off the chamois if you drop it.

Rinse the chamois in clean water after each use, or machine wash it with a mild detergent and no fabric softener or bleach. PVA chamois go stiff when dry, so store them damp in their tube or a sealed container, or soak them in water to soften before use. Do not store a chamois dirty, because trapped grit can scratch paint next time.