Dressings and protectants are liquid products designed to shine and protect vinyl and rubber surfaces; assisting to repel water and resist detergents. A shine agent (e.g., silicone, mineral oil, or glycerin) is delivered to the rubber or vinyl surfaces using a carrier that evaporates once applied. The carriers used for water-based and solvent-based dressings and protectants is what differs. For solvent-based dressings and protectants the carrier is a blend of solvents; while for water-based dressings and protectants the carrier is water.

Solvent based dressings and protectants are typically more durable than water-based dressings and protectants. This is a result of solvents causing the pores of rubber and vinyl to open, enabling the shine agent to penetrate the surface. Shine agents in water-based dressings and protectants remain on the surface, and commonly rinse off more readily. Due to Auto Valet advanced formulation technology the AQUA SHIELD and ENCHANTER ULTIMATE water-based dressings and protectants provide comparable durability to solvent-based dressings.

Solvent based dressings and protectants are best used for vehicle exterior applications such as tires, mouldings, bumpers, vinyl trim, and vinyl tops. Due to flammability, solvent-based dressings and protectants are not to be used to dress engine compartments. If solvent-based dressings and protectants are used for interior applications, care must be taken as repeated applications to surfaces exposed to direct sunlight (i.e., dashboards) can lead to cracking. Solvent based dressings and protectants can stain certain fascia’s, if used incorrectly.

Water based dressings and protectants can be used for both interior and exterior applications; and are most commonly used for interior applications over solvent-based products. Use water-based dressings and protectants on areas that are made with rubber, vinyl, leather, and wood (includes engine compartments).

There are currently five (5) Auto Valet solvent based dressings and protectants available.

• TIRE DRESSING: a V.O.C. compliant, solvent and silicone dressing that produces a medium to high gloss finish.
• RECOVER: a solvent and silicone dressing that produces a glossy finish. 
• TOP HAT: a solvent and silicone dressing that produces a high shine, glossy finish.
• REWARD: a solvent and non-silicone dressing that produces a glossy finish. Ideal for body shop applications.
• KWIK SHINE: an aerosol vinyl and plastic dressing that instantly shines both interior and exterior vehicle applications.

The only solvent based dressing and protectant that is body shop safe is REWARD. All other solvent based dressings and protectants; TIRE DRESSING, RECOVER, TOP HAT, and KWIK SHINE; are not body shop safe as they contain silicone.

Fascia staining is when the plastic vehicle panels are stained with the mixture of solvent and carbon black, slung onto them from freshly dressed tires. 

The exact cause of the staining is unclear; however, this problem exists industry-wide and some viable causes could include: tire mold release agents, and clearcoat flex agents.

Sling-off from freshly dressed tires may cause permanent staining of some plastic panels. 

Correct application of solvent based dressings and protectants is critical to minimize the risk of staining. To prevent permanent staining of plastic panels, do not drive the vehicle until excess product has been wiped off, especially where the tire contacts the rim. Dressing alone will not cause staining. Always carefully read and follow all directions of solvent based dressings and protectants.

Preclean the areas of application to ensure dust, dirt, and grime is removed. Use a cleaner degreaser, such as PURPLE POWER, at the correct dilution ratio to best remove all surface contaminants.