Question 1

Which gloves should I use for car detailing chemicals?

Accepted Answer

Nitrile is the standard choice for most detailing products: better solvent resistance than latex and latex-free for allergy sufferers. For more aggressive products such as high-concentration IPA, bitumen remover or strong degreasers: choose thicker nitrile (0.3-0.4 mm) or butyl rubber for extended exposure.

Question 2

When do I need a half-face respirator and when is a dust mask sufficient?

Accepted Answer

A dust mask (FFP2/FFP3) protects against solid particles such as abrasive dust and spray powder, but not against gases or vapours. As soon as you work with solvents, coatings or spray cans, a half-face respirator with the correct gas filter (A/B/E/K class) is required. Combine a P-filter with the gas filter for combined exposure.

Question 3

What's the difference between safety glasses and goggles?

Accepted Answer

Safety glasses protect eyes from frontal splashes and flying particles, but leave the sides and top/bottom largely open. Goggles seal all the way around and keep even foaming or splashing liquids out. When working with acids, alkalis, water softeners or concentrates, goggles are the only correct choice.

Question 4

How do I know when my respirator filters are spent?

Accepted Answer

Gas filters have a limited capacity that depends on usage time and ambient concentration. If you can smell vapours through the mask, the filters are spent. Also use the expiry date on the packaging as a guide, and never store open filters outside their packaging, they absorb ambient vapours even when not in use.

Question 5

Is a disposable FFP2 mask enough for regular detailing work?

Accepted Answer

For dust-generating tasks such as dry sanding or working with clay bar in dry conditions, FFP2 is sufficient. As soon as you work with solvent-based products, any strongly-scented cleaner, paints, primers or thinners, an FFP2 mask is not enough and you need a gas filter respirator.

PPE & Safety

COLAD Black Disposable Nitrile Gloves 60-pack

Sundstrom SR570 Starter Pack

Frequently asked questions