We Say
R222 Paintwork Cleanser is designed for one very specific job: refining the paint surface and preparing it properly before waxing. It sits between washing and protection, removing light residues, oxidation and old product build-up without cutting into the paint like a true polish.
The formulation gently cleans and levels the surface, which improves both gloss and wax bonding. The finish it leaves behind feels smoother and looks clearer, allowing carnauba waxes in particular to deliver their full depth and warmth.
This isn’t a corrective product and it’s not trying to fix defects. Instead, it’s about creating the right foundation — especially on well-maintained paint where machine polishing isn’t necessary but you still want the wax to look its best.
In our opinion, this is one of those understated products that quietly makes everything else work better. If you enjoy waxing and want the best possible finish without polishing, this earns its place in the process.
Key Features
Surface Prep
9/10
(Wax bonding)
Gloss Boost
8/10
(Refinement)
Ease of Use
9/10
(Hand applied)
Description
R222 Paintwork Cleanser is a non-abrasive paint cleansing product designed to refine the surface and enhance gloss prior to wax application. It removes light oxidation, old wax residues and surface contamination that washing alone can leave behind.
The cleanser improves surface clarity and smoothness, helping waxes spread more evenly and bond more effectively. This results in a deeper, more uniform finish once protection is applied.
Ideal for:
✔ Preparing paintwork before carnauba wax
✔ Enhancing gloss on well-maintained paint
✔ Removing old wax and light residue
✔ Enthusiast hand-application workflows
R222 Paintwork Cleanser is particularly well suited to traditional wax systems, where surface preparation plays a key role in achieving maximum visual impact.
How this fits into the R222 system:
✔ R222 Paintwork Cleanser is designed to refine and prepare the paint surface before protection, improving gloss and helping wax bond more effectively.
✔ Follow with R222 Carnauba Wax for a balanced, classic carnauba finish suitable for regular waxing.
✔ For maximum depth and a concours-style finish, step up to R222 100% Carnauba Wax once the surface has been properly cleansed.
Specification
| Product Type | Paintwork cleanser |
|---|---|
| Abrasiveness | Non-abrasive |
| Use Stage | Pre-wax |
| Application | Hand application |
| Primary Purpose | Surface refinement |
| Suitable For | Paintwork |
How To Use
1) Wash first:
Thoroughly wash and dry the vehicle to remove loose dirt and contamination.
2) Apply by hand:
Apply a small amount to a soft foam or microfibre applicator and work into the paint using light, overlapping motions.
3) Work panel by panel:
Allow the product to lightly haze as it cleans the surface.
4) Buff off:
Remove residue with a clean, soft microfibre towel to reveal a smooth, refined finish.
5) Protect:
Follow immediately with your chosen wax to lock in gloss and protection.