Thats one of the reasons I always Cal Duster my car first. Before I get attacked, I only use the Duster when i have a light coating of dust on it.. If I have 'dirt', I dont use it. But typically, in the communal garage in which I park, one day of parking and no dust accumulates.. Two or more, and I will be able to detect some very light dusting. I never press on the duster; I just let the red cotton strands gently 'dangle' across the surface. Does a good job of removing whatever dust is there without micromarring. .. Ive done this routine enough, and always under the strong lights, so that I can say with confidence that it causes no scratching when used properly.. . Then I follow that up with the QD. Its worked well for me.