Why should I use a Chamois instead of some other drying material to dry my car?
There a two very strong arguments to use a natural chamois to dry your car, over a microfibre or synthetic cloth.
Firstly tests have shown that genuine Chamois leather is the least abrasive drying material for any auto surface and will not remove your wax finish. It has a unique natural fibre structure, that absorbs left over dirt into the skin for safe release into your wash water, meaning fewer of those annoying micro-scratches on your paintwork.
Secondly, from an environmental standpoint, Chamois Leather is the right choice. Natural Chamois is a Zero Microplastic product, microfibre by contrast, is made from tiny microplastics, these are released into run off water with every wash. This is an evidence based fact, supported by September 2018 research conducted by the British Leather Confederation at it’s Northampton laboratory in the UK. The study found that significant micro-filament shedding occurred during a simple light washing of a microfibre. The study did not take into account the extra abrasion that takes place when washing a car. This is a great cause for concern, because when you clean your car, the wash water flows into storm drains, from here it enters streams and river networks and these ultimately flow into our Oceans. We conservatively estimate that one single European auto aftermarket retailer would contribute over 4 tonnes of microplastics into the worlds oceans every year. These figures will be much greater when you consider household microfibre use.
Why are some other materials that I see marketed as Chamois not real Chamois?
In Europe there are strict standards that govern what constitutes genuine Chamois leather, these are often flouted and it is the consumer who is short changed! The British Standard BS6715:1991 and US Federal Standard are the most exacting and appropriate industry standards.
How do I care for my Chamois, to ensure long product life?
Before use it is very important to wash the Chamois in warm soapy water then rinse it thoroughly leaving Chamois slightly damp. Wipe all washed areas to enjoy a perfect professional finish.
After each use, rinse the Chamois well and dry it away from direct sunlight. Do not store damp and avoid contact with petroleum products or harsh detergents.
To soften to original state, rub dry Chamois together or back and forth over table edge. Use a dry Chamois for Super Soft dusting and polishing, or for wiping computer screens.
Do not expose your chamois to harsh chemicals, detergents, or petroleum based products.
Never wash your chamois in the washing machine!
After several uses, my Chamois starts to stiffen up when dry?
As your Chamois is used repeatedly, some of the natural oils go out of the skin. As soon as you re-wet your Chamois it will bounce back to its usual soft self and after wringing out will be ready to dry your car. If you wish to use you chamois dry, for example on phone or tablet screens, simply rub the chamois back and forth with some pressure over table’s edge and the soft feel will quickly return.
How long will my Chamois last?
With proper care a long time. A Chamois that is not exposed to harsh chemicals and is treated correctly should give years productive use. If it is soaked in gasoline or other harsh chemicals and is not properly cleaned or dried, the Chamois will age prematurely.
Of course, the number of cars and frequency of use will also have an effect on the life of your Chamois.
What is the EU Anti dumping duty on Chamois leather?
In 2005 the European Union found that Chamois Leather from the Republic of China was being dumped onto the European market at anti-competitive prices. As a result the EU imposed a c. 59% anti-dumping duty on all Chamois Leather imports from the Peoples Republic of China. This anti-dumping duty is still in place today and all Chamois Leather imported from China is subject to it.