Confused re: foam pad vs. cotton terry

[NattyBumppo]

I've read so many different detailing posts, reviews, tutorials etc. over these last few months that I don't know whether I'm coming or going:nixweiss . Can someone clear this up for me?



polishing with Meguiars #7 - I've been using super soft, 100% cotton terry towels (or bonnets when I use the orbital) to apply and remove #7. Haven't had a problem, or so I thought, but I have noticed that I'm just starting to get some very faint swirl marks. The truck is bright red and is 6 months old.



Waxing (Meguiars #26 paste)- been using foam applicator pads (Meguiars) and removing with the 100% cotton terry towels.



Is the preferred method foam for the polish application and foam for wax? Or am I getting it right using the terry for the #7 polish?



Lastly, I see most of you folks use the MF towels for buffing and removing the wax. The towels I purchased are super soft 100% cotton terry and the MF 3 pack I got (Viper) seems harsh by comparison.



I was always told cotton terry for liquid polish and foam for wax.:nixweiss

 

[rolle4]

Meguiars #7 can either be applied by hand or machine, I personally use the PC with the white CMA pad, then either hand apply the #26 with a Viking foam applicator or if I'm lazy and want to use the PC I'll use another white CMA pads (allways keep your pads separate and dont mix products)



The results seem excellent on a burgungy Tahoe, no swirls to speak of, I then buff with MF towels.

 

[imported_Intel486]

I use Foam pads on my Dewalt for applying polish. I also use foam pads for applying polish to areas the buffer can't get. Foam for applying wax too.



I use 100% cotton terry towels for buffing off wax simply because I do not have enough MF towels. I don't really think there is a big differece. I just use my MF towels for cleaning windows and quick detailing.