Pad Cleaning

A pad clogged with spent compound and paint residue cuts less, runs hotter and can leave an uneven finish. The range covers the quick clean between sections and the full wash after the job, from Lake Country, Grit Guard and Maxshine.

How to choose

• Between sections: the Maxshine tool brushes the pad face clean, and its wedge end lifts pads off the backing plate without tearing them.
• Pad washer: the Lake Country System 4000 cleans the pad on the polisher and takes 3 to 7 inch pads on DA and rotary machines.
• Soaking: dissolve Snappy Pad Cleaner in a bucket of water, soak the pads for up to 15 minutes and rinse. Snappy Clean Boost (5 litres) goes in the System 4000 or a soak bucket.
• Hardened compound: a few sprays of Grit Guard PRS loosen it, then brush or wash it out.

Good to know

• Rinse out all the cleaner and let pads dry fully before they go into Pad Storage. Direct heat can loosen the glue behind the foam.
• Snappy's directions say to keep the cleaner off your skin: wear gloves from Gloves & PPE.

Can I wash and reuse polishing pads?

Yes. Brush the face clean between sections, then wash the pads after the job with a pad cleaner, in a pad washer or a soak bucket. Rinse all the cleaner out and let them dry fully, away from direct heat, before they are stored.

Related: Preparation & Accessories, Polishing Pads, Polishing Machines & Kits. Popular brands here: Lake Country, Grit Guard, Maxshine.