The following are answers to the most common questions we receive concerning the product line. If you don't find your question answered, please contact us and we'd be more than happy to provide the answer you need.
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Should I use distilled or tap water with Kristall Klar Washer Fluid and Anti-Frost Washer Fluid?
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What should I use for application: cotton towel, foam applicator, old t-shirt, cloth diaper?
- Are nextzett products tested on animals?
- Blitz All Purpose Cleaner
- Cockpit Premium
- Glass Sealant
- Klima-Cleaner Pro
- Kristall Klar Premium Washer Fluid
- Pump Atomizer (Red and Blue models)
- W99 Degreaser
- Windscreen Clear
Are silicone-based polishes and waxes bad for paint?
This is a long-standing myth that can't seem to go away. The fact is, silicone -based products are only harmful to new paintwork that is between 60-90 days old. During this period, fresh paint is still releasing solvents. This process is termed "off-gassing". The silicone in silicone-based polishes and waxes will coat the paint preventing the paint from drying properly. This can harm the appearance of the paint when it is fully cured.
So unless you work in a paint shop environment, we highly recommend our Shop-Line polishes which are professional grade but contain silicone which makes application much easier, enhances gloss and offers additional water resistance.
Note: Keep in mind that in addition to avoiding silicone-based products on fresh paint, also avoid applying wax and acrylic based sealants.
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What is the difference between a polish and a wax?
Polishes are the most essential product in the overall appearance and condition of the paint finish. Polishes clean and condition the finish at the same time. There are polishes formulated to remove paint finish issues such as hazing (white, oxidized paint that looks dull) while other polishes are formulated to remove more serious issues such as light scratches and severe hazing. Light polishes such as No. 3 Polish & Wax rely on chemical cleaning of the paintwork while medium cut polishes such as No. 2 One Step Polish or strong cut (compound) polishes such as No. 1 Clean & Polish rely both on chemical and mechanical (abrasives) to rectify more serious paintwork issues.
A true wax is designed to act as a second layer of paint. Instead of your paintwork receiving the harsh effects of the environment directly, wax acts as an invisible shield. A true wax will not clean the paintwork or remove any minor scratches or swirl marks. Waxes are available in natural carnauba and synthetic and usually a combination of both. No. 3 Polish & Wax combines the benefits of both carnauba wax and polymer wax. Top of page
How often should I polish and wax my car?
Polishing
This all depends on how often your car is used. If it is a daily driver, we recommend you polish the paint finish about 2-3 times a year. If your car is rarely used we recommend 1-2 times per year.
Waxing
Waxing can be done at a more frequent rate.
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Why use car shampoo when I can use dish washing detergent or lower cost car shampoos?
While the differences may appear to be almost non-existent, there is a large difference between a quality shampoo such as Perls Shampoo and regular dish washing detergent or car shampoos found at major chain stores. Detergents used in lower cost products usually have a higher pH level that is not compatible with car waxes and polishes. In the case of dishwashing detergents, they cannot tell the difference between the oils that are food-based and car wax. It looks at the two as one and the same and therefore will strip any wax or polish on your paintwork resulting in a loss of paintwork protection.
In the case of lower cost car shampoos, in order to keep costs low, they are formulated with higher alkaline (high pH level - over 7.0 which is neutral) detergents that are lower in cost but can remove sensitive car waxes.
An easy way of knowing if a shampoo has lower cost detergents is by the amount of suds the wash produces. The higher the alkaline level, the more suds the carwash solution produces and therefore the higher the chance it will be aggressive towards wax finishes.
Is nextzett compatible with other brands?
We recommend you use nextzett products exclusively for best results since they are designed to work together as a complete system. This is especially true in regards to the polishes and wax. However, you can use nextzett with other product brands without any negative results. Please check with other brands if their products are compatible with other brands as well - this is usually the case.
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Does Cockpit Premium contain UV protection?
Cockpit Premium contains a minimum amount of UV protection. This is because interior surfaces are not exposed to the same UV exposure as exterior surfaces since automotive glass filters a great deal of UV rays which can cause fading over time. However, Cockpit Premium does contain protectants that prevent fading due to heat.
If you need a plastic, vinyl and rubber cleaner and protectant with strong UV protection, use Vinyl-Rubber Extra. It offers maximum protection from UV rays and is water and wash resistant for a long-lasting finish. Please note, Vinyl-Rubber Extra should not be applied on the steering wheel, shift knob or pedals because of a danger of slippage.
Can Kristall Klar Washer Fluid be used in the winter?
Kristall Klar is not formulated to be used in the winter. It is only effective to near freezing (32°F / 0°C). nextzett Anti-Frost Washer Fluid is our winter washer fluid formula and is effective up to -22°F (-30°C) when mixed correctly. Anti-Frost does not contain toxic methanol found in most off the shelf brands. It is available between the Fall and end of Winter of each year.
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Should I use distilled or tap water with Kristall Klar Washer Fluid and Anti-Frost Washer Fluid?
Our windshield washer fluids were formulated to be easy to use and convenient. This is especially the case at automotive factories and dealerships where tap water is easily accessible. For this reason, we've formulated both washer fluids to work best when mixed with regular tap water. The only exception to this is if you only have access to well water. Kristall Klar and Anti-Frost Washer Fluid both contain water conditioners to soften hard water. If they are mixed with distilled water, the washer fluid mixture will foam excessively and cause smearing hindering optimum performance. So keep it simple and convenient and use good ole tap water. If you have well water, mix in some distilled water but make sure the water remains slightly hard for best cleaning performance.
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Does No. 3 Polish & Wax remove swirl marks?
No. 3 Polish & Wax contains very fine abrasives primarily for cleaning the paint finish and not correcting issues such as swirl marks and light scratches. Polish & Wax is formulated to bring out the best and protect new and like-new paintwork finishes.
For paintwork corrections such as swirl marks and light scratches, use No. 2 One Step Polish.
For severe paintwork defects such as severe oxidation and deeper scratches, use No. 1 Clean & Polish.
What is formalin?
Formalin is a generic term which describes a solution of 37% formaldehyde gas dissolved in water. Formalin, a common preservative is often used in car care products to extend shelf life but formalin also causes an allergic reaction with some people. For this reason, we avoid the use of formalin in our products.
What should I use for application: microfiber towel, cotton towel, foam applicator, old t-shirt, cloth diaper?
Old cotton t-shirts and cotton cloth diapers seem to go hand in hand with applying carnauba paste waxes. But times have changed and there are better ways of applying polishes and waxes that will give you much better results.
First, we must immediately eliminate as choices cotton t-shirts and cloth diapers - flannel shirts too. Even though they're made from cotton, these choices are too thin and can scratch today's sensitive clear coat finishes. They may have been fine when paint was a thick, durable lacquer. Since they are thin, they're unable to keep away any grime or grit that they pull from the paint finish away from the surface. As the polish pulls debris from the finish, it stays on the cloth's shallow face. As you pull more grime and grit, the surface of the cloth becomes more gritty. Imagine how gritty it will be by the time you near the end of polishing your car's entire paint finish?!
Always use an applicator that has depth to it and therefore can pull any grime or debris into its base and away from the paint finish. Such applicators include microfiber towels, foam applicator pads and plush cotton towels.
Now, which do you choose for which job? Let's take a look...
Foam applicator pads are disc shaped foam. They are very soft and durable. They can be washed for multiple uses and they are economical. They can be used for applying polish, wax and tire dressings.
When to use:
When polishing new or like-new paint finishes that have no surface issues such as light scratches or swirl marks. Use when applying nextzett No. 3 Polish & Wax.
Microfiber towels are made of synthetic fibers. Their fibers are microscopic and have an incredible ability to 'grab' dust and grime while being very gentle at the same time. Microfiber also has a fantastic ability to absorb liquids. Their durability means they can be washed hundreds of times without losing their strength or ability. Essentially, it's a super fiber and should be the staple of every detailer. Available in our line is the nextzett Microfiber Towel and Microfiber Chenille Wash Mitt.
When to use:
Microfiber towels can be used dry or wet to remove dust from all car surfaces including paint, plastic and metal. It can also be used to apply polish or wax. Apply polish with a microfiber towel if you need a 'biting' factor that fits between that of a foam applicator pad and a cotton towel.
Microfiber towels are a great way to buff off applied polish or waxes. They remove the excess product with ease without leaving smears or streaks.
Tip: Always wash microfiber towels separately from other fibers since they're ability to grab also means they are able to grab lint from cotton towels. Also, never use fabric softener which applies a silicone on the tips of the fiber and can inhibit their ability to grab and absorb.
Cotton towel
Only use a 100% cotton towel. It should be plush. Do not use the towels that can be purchased in bulk because they are usually a blend of polyester and cotton even though they say 100% cotton. Also, never use old t-shirts, rags, cotton diapers or flannel to polish. They are too thin and can scratch the surface as the polish pulls in debris into the fiber. A quality cotton towel with thick fibers will pull debris into the base of the towel and away from the paint.
When to use:
When polishing paint that has surface issues such as haze (oxidation), swirl marks or light scratches. Use when applying No. 2 One Step Polish or No. 1 Clean & Polish.
Can I use Leather Care on vinyl surfaces?
You might be asking this question if you have car seats that are a combination of leather and vinyl. Usually the side bolsters will be made from vinyl and the main seating area will be made from leather. If this is the case, we recommend that you use Leather Care only on the leather section and avoid the vinyl surface. The cleaners in Leather Care are specifically formulated to treat the finished coating on leather but with repeated application can dry vinyl.
To treat the vinyl sections, we recommend you use Cockpit Premium which will clean the vinyl and prevent it from fading. If you do get any Leather Care on the vinyl portion of the seat, do not be worried. Simply wipe off.
If you're unsure about what portion is leather, contact your dealership or contact the manufacturer.
Incidentally, it's safe to use Cockpit Premium to clean finished leather surfaces. Just keep in mind that it doesn't condition the finish, so you'll want to follow up with Leather Care.
My online order arrived but the products are frozen because of the freezing weather. Are the products still good?
When products are shipped during the winter, they can be exposed to below freezing temperatures which can cause them to freeze. This does not negatively harm the products. Simply allow them to defrost and return to room temperature.
Remember to store your products closed and in a shaded area. If possible, it's best to keep them in a temperature controlled environment. Properly stored, our polishes and waxes have a shelf life of approximately three years while our cleaning and care products and detergents have a shelf life of seven years.
What is the shelf life of nextzett products?
When properly closed and stored in a shaded area our polishes and waxes have a shelf life of approximately three years while our cleaning and care products have a shelf life of up to seven years. If possible, it's best to keep them in a temperature controlled environment.
Are nextett products tested on animals?
Nextzett does not directly test its products on animals. However, certain raw materials are tested on rodents (rats and mice) by our suppliers. This is necessary in order to meet government regulations which is ultimately enforced to ensure the safety of our customers.
You can see in our SDS - Safety data sheets (link on bottom of our website) under Sect. 11 - toxicological effects for the products this pertains too.
For example, if you look at Cockpit Premium, ethanol is the ingredient that is tested and the test subjects are rat and mouse (MUS).
In addition, nextzett does not use any animal ingredients in any of its products. The ingredients we use are either naturally derived minerals or compounds such as aluminum, carnauba wax, and ethanol or synthetically derived such as polymers.
- How much do I dilute the product? A good general purpose dilution is 1:30. That means 1 part Blitz mixed with 30 parts water. A part can be any unit of measurement. For example, it could be fluid ounces. So that would be 1 fl oz of Blitz mixed with 30 fl oz of water. We recommend you use distilled or bottled water (soft water too) for the most effective cleaning solution. You can find the various mixing dilutions based on your needs in the product description. Top of page
Cockpit Premium
- What's the difference between Cockpit Premium and Plastic Deep Cleaner? Cockpit Premium is a light cleaner that leaves a factory low-shine finish. It also provides protection from fading. Plastic Deep Cleaner is a highly concentrated detergent that can remove rubber sole marks, grime buildup and haze from convertible top windows. It does not leave a finish.
- Can I use Cockpit on leather? Yes you can use Cockpit to clean leather as long as it's finished/coated leather. If you place a drop of water on the leather and it doesn't absorb into the leather, you have coated leather. Just keep in mind that you'll still need to condtion the leather on occasion with a leather conditioner such as Leather Care. You can also use Cockpit on imitation leather such as MB-Tex and Tesla Vegan Leather. Top of page
Glass Sealant
- Is there a cure time before exposing to rain? The beauty of Glass Sealant is that it's ready for rain exposure immediately!
- When I applied Glass Sealant, it left a hazy film on the glass. No problem. Simply mist some water on the glass and then buff off with a clean, lint-free cloth - ideally a microfiber towel. Top of page
Klima-Cleaner Pro
- Do you have directions for applying Klima Cleaner to my specific make and model of car? We're sorry but we do not keep records for applications of every make and model of vehicle. It would simply be too vast. Be sure to check out our tutorial with video on application here. We suggest you do an online search and be sure to check Youtube.com for videos made by our customers. Most vehicles share very similar layouts. Some vehicles are more complicated than others and that's when we suggest you have a personal mechanic apply it for you if possible. Another tip we have is doing a search for how to remove the evaporator from your vehicle (using the make/model of your vehicle). Top of page
Kristall Klar Premium Washer Fluid
- Do I need to dilute it with distilled or bottled water? Kristall Klar was formulated to be easily applied in the repair shop. Repair shops don't have access to distilled water. They just use tap water. So, Kristall Klar is formulated with water conditioners making it most effective when mixed with regular tap water. If you make a solution with distilled/bottled/de-ionized/soft water, you might find that it's very sudsy and foams up a lot leaving residue and smears on the glass.
- Does Kristall Klar freeze? YES. Kristall Klar is a concentrated detergent - basically we took out the water. Water freezes at 32°F/0°C so if you mix it with water, it will freeze at that temperature. In order to prevent it from freezing, you need to mix it with an alcohol such as ethanol. However, an easier solution is using Anti Frost Washer Fluid which already has the alcohol in it plus other agents that help prevent re-freezing. Top of page
Pump Atomizer (Red and Blue models)
- My pump atomizer isn't pressurizing. Two common issues that prevent our pump atomizers from pressurizing correctly: 1) The top unit (the colored portion), isn't screwed on tightly to the reservoir; 2) The multi-directional nozzle attachment isn't screwed on tightly. Remember to always de-pressurize the unit when you are done using. This will prevent the pressure from degrading the seals sooner. If you have the red atomizer, it comes with seal lubricant. Be sure to lubricate the seals every few uses to keep them in prime condition. Top of page
W99 Degreaser
- How much do I dilute W99? For most jobs, you can use a dilution of 1:10. Check out W99's product page for more dilution application ratios. That means 1 part W99 mixed with 10 parts water. A part can be any unit of measurement. For example, it could be fluid ounces. So that would be 1 fl oz of W99 mixed with 10 fl oz of water. We recommend you use distilled or bottled water (soft water too) for the most effective cleaning solution. Top of page
Windscreen Clear
- Is Windscreen Clear a concentrate and how much do I dilute it? The 500 ml / 16.9 fl oz bottle is ready to use. It is more concentrated than competing glass cleaners so don't spray a lot or you'll end up with a film build up. Instead, spray lightly. A little goes a long way. If you're using the 10 liter / 338 fl oz size, you will need to dilute before using. It can be diluted as much as 1:6. That's 1 part Windscreen Clear mixed with 6 parts of water - preferably distilled/de-ionized/bottled/soft water. Top of page