How to Decontaminate Your Paint With Iron Remover and a Clay Bar

If you are serious about keeping your paint smooth, glossy, and protected, proper paint decontamination is a must before applying any wax, sealant, or coating. One of the most efficient ways to get it done? Use your iron remover and clay bar at the same time.

This technique saves time while delivering a truly clean finish. Here’s how it works:

Why Combine Iron Remover and Clay Bar?

Traditionally, decontamination is done in two steps — chemical (iron remover) and mechanical (clay bar). But by claying while the iron remover is dwelling on the paint, you can complete both stages in one efficient pass. The iron remover dissolves embedded contaminants like brake dust and fallout, while the clay physically lifts away surface-bound grime, tar, and overspray.

It cuts your time in half while boosting your results.

Step-by-Step: How to Decontaminate Paint Like a Pro

1. Wash Your Vehicle Thoroughly

Use a pH-neutral soap or a strip wash if you’re prepping for new wax. This helps degrease the surface and remove any old waxes or sealants. Rinse thoroughly.

2. Spray Iron Remover on the Paint

Apply a dedicated iron remover to your work area. Let it dwell for a few minutes. You will notice purple reactions as it breaks down iron particles.

3. Clay While the Iron Remover Dwells

While the surface is still wet with iron remover, spray your clay bar and gently glide across the surface in straight-line motions. The iron remover acts as a lubricant while you clay.

4. Rinse Thoroughly

Once you have finished claying, rinse all surfaces thoroughly to remove iron remover residue and loosened contaminants.

5. Dry With a Clean Microfiber Towel

Use forced air or a clean microfiber towel to dry the vehicle, making sure no residue or water is left behind.

6. Finish With Protection

Now that your paint is clean and decontaminated, it is ready for polish or a sealant.

Bonus Tips:

• Work in a shaded area on a cool surface

• Work in small sections to ensure your iron remover isn't drying on the surface

• Always inspect your clay often and fold it to a clean side (If you drop a traditional clay bar, you will have to throw it away immediately so don't use the whole thing all at once)

  
  

Claying with iron remover not only saves time, but also ensures your paint is completely free of embedded contaminants before sealing or coating. At Tyler’s Mobile Detailing, we use this technique on every full detail to prep your paint for long-term protection.