Chemical Guys Clean Slate Citrus Deep Surface Cleaning Wash Soap, 64 oz — Strips Wax & Residue for Coating Prep

Chemical Guys Clean Slate is a concentrated citrus-scented wash that dissolves old wax, sealants and surface residues so new coatings and wraps bond cleanly to automotive paint.

This professional-grade cleanser is formulated to remove accumulated wax, polish oils and contaminants without aggressive abrasion, leaving a neutral, residue-free surface ready for polishing, coating, clear bra or vinyl wrap installation. Clean Slate works with traditional two-bucket washing or with a foam cannon; its citrus-enhanced blend helps break down oily films while rinsing away cleanly on all paint colors and exterior finishes. Use it before polishing to protect pads from wax transfer and after compounding to ensure coatings adhere directly to the paint.

How does Clean Slate prepare paint for waxing, coating, or wrapping?

Clean Slate strips away old layers of wax, sealants and polish oils that can block proper adhesion. Removing these residues allows fresh waxes, ceramic coatings, clear bras and vinyl wraps to contact bare paint for longer-lasting performance.

• Dissolves old wax and sealant buildup for a clean base
• Leaves a neutral surface that improves bonding of coatings and wraps
• Reduces transfer of oils to polishing pads during compound/polish stages

What are the recommended ways to use this wash?

Use Clean Slate diluted in a two-bucket hand wash or through a foam cannon depending on your workflow. Follow dilution guidelines to balance cleaning power with foam thickness and always rinse thoroughly before drying.

• Two-bucket method: 1 oz per 5-gallon wash bucket for balanced cleaning
• Foam cannon: 2 oz in foam solution bottle, adjust air/solution for desired foam
• Use a separate bucket and tools for wheels and tires to avoid cross-contamination

Is Clean Slate safe for all automotive finishes and colors?

Chemical Guys designed Clean Slate for use on all paint colors and common exterior finishes, from clear coats to single-stage paints. It is intended as a preparatory cleanser rather than an aggressive stripper, but you should always follow label directions and test in a small area if unsure.

• Safe on clear coat, single-stage paint, and common automotive surfaces
• Works on domestic, European, luxury, and RV brands listed for compatibility
• Recommended for professional detailers and DIY enthusiasts when used as directed

How does Clean Slate speed up detailing tasks like claying and polishing?

By removing oily residues and leftover product films, Clean Slate reduces the bind between contaminants and the paint surface, making clay bars glide more smoothly and reducing pad contamination during polishing. It prevents residue buildup on tools, saving time and improving results.

• Makes clay decontamination faster by loosening surface contaminants
• Prevents wax and oil transfer to polishing pads for cleaner cut and finish
• Helps ensure coatings cure against paint rather than old product residues

Who is this for: Clean Slate is ideal for professional detailers, body shops and informed car owners who prepare vehicles for polishing, ceramic coatings, clear bras or vinyl wraps. It benefits anyone who wants a reliable, citrus-scented wash that removes wax and sealant residues before follow-up treatments — particularly when a residue-free surface is needed for maximum adhesion and longevity. Always read and follow product directions on the bottle before use.