what is the difference between cleanser wax and reg. wax ( like NXT )

 

Very general, but, a cleaner wax is a 2 in 1 type product, basically cleanses the surface and leaves the wax. "Regular" wax is without the cleansing. I think NXT has a small amount of cleaning ability (or solvants) from what I recall.

Ideally, you want to polish and clean the surface prior to whatever last stage wax you put on it. Wax might make it look good on it's own, but what it's the polished cars that really levels people you drive by.

 

Cleaner waxes are "combo" products that do several things in one step. The cleaner abilities in the CW, whether it be mild abrasives or chemical cleaners or both removes any traces of previously applied waxes, polishes and contaminants. The Carnauba mixed in with the product will then give you the shine as you buff it off. I heard Meg's #6 CW is a good one but try ColorX, it's works similarly but cheaper and has good cleaning abilities.

Regular wax or "pure" carnauba has no cleaning abilities. It will simply put a layer of carnauba on top of the finish. Regular or pure carnauba usually has better results and may last longer than just CW. This is best applied on top of "prepared" surfaces, so you do a prior step of cleaning (using a chemical cleaner) then polishing or a sealant. I have P21S pure Carnauba wax on top of Klasse AIO and Sealant Glaze.

Some say that NXT is a sealant but I heard you need to re-apply it as often as regular wax. I don't think it has any natural carnauba in it, but I heard carnauba can be used to top it off for added shine.

Remember that waxes, regardless of their composition wears off the finish after a few weeks, so you will need to re-apply again.