Product group tests

Drying cloths tested

2 May, 2012 7:00am Kim Adams Comments

Drying your bodywork after washing is vital, and there’s a variety of specialist cloths to do the job. We pick from 12

Hosepipe bans have made washing the car harder for many of us, but don’t be tempted to skip drying afterwards – as you will have wasted not only your time but also precious water.

Minerals in water leave marks on just-washed paint when they dry, so it’s essential to shift them – especially if you plan to wax and polish your bodywork.

The traditional chamois leather has been overtaken by more user-friendly microfibre cloths, which are the easiest way to dry your car. There’s a huge choice, so we tried 12 to find the best.

How we tested them

After measuring each cloth to see what you got for your money, we assessed how much water each could absorb. We weighed them when dry, then soaked them in water, drained them for 30 seconds and placed them back on the scales.

The final test was on a soaked panel, where we looked for a dry finish without smearing after just one pass over a section. Price was the final factor; the figures quoted exclude delivery costs.

Verdict

A second win on the trot for Kent’s monster Microfibre Drying Towel with its unbeatable blend of a keen price and serious thirst. The innovative Sakura – with its hard edge to stop drips – takes second place from Dodo Juice’s pricey but effective Orange Plush.

1. Kent Extra Large Microfibre Drying Towel

2. Sakura Drip Stop Drying Towel

3. Dodo Juice Orange Plush

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Submitted by n50pap on Sun, 2012-05-06 23:52.

I've bought Kent Drying Towels in the past, but they were in 6-packs at 2 for £5 in Asda. I've still got loads, because they do wash well and are only replaced when I feel they're not doing a good job on the car.
The price of nearly £12 for some of those tested would suggest they're for really fanatical car cleaners. No doubt they're quality products, but slightly pricey IMO.
I saw the Autoglym Hi-Tech towel in Halfords when I was looking for a new synthetic chamois that Autoglym used to sell but now don't , apparently. Presumably this is the replacement......at a much higher price.