How to store your pads, so you don't get this?

[Camaro2010]

Thought I was doing a good thing. After cleaning my pads and letting them dry I placed them in Zip lockbags and found mildew on them?
1. Can I save these or best to throw them out and get new ones?
2. Also how many times or how long can you use a pad till they aren't useable?
3. Do you store them back in the original bags? Currently I have them in zip lock bags in a plastic bin.

[Fred114]

I'm no expert here, but if it is just mildew you should be able to clean them again.
If storing in plastic bags, I would not zip the bag completely, so it can breath.
my 2 cents anyway.

[CEE DOG]

Man, that's a shame. Sorry that happened to you. Don't seal them in bags but do place them in a plastic container that will keep dust out. Also, I always let them dry for about 2 days longer from the point when they seem completely dry.

1. How many is it?
2. You will be able to tell when you can't use the pad anymore. The amount of times it takes to deteriorate will depend on the machine, the polish, the pad, the paint, and the user.
3. See below, here's what I keep mine in.

[sparkie]

I'm no expert here, but if it is just mildew you should be able to clean them again.
If storing in plastic bags, I would not zip the bag completely, so it can breath.
my 2 cents anyway.

APC will clean them up, just rinse well with water...I let my pads dry in a dish drainer...They will last for years...

[DARK HORSE]

Man, that's a shame. Sorry that happened to you. Don't seal them in bags but do place them in a plastic container that will keep dust out. Also, I always let them dry for about 2 days longer from the point when they seem completely dry.

Also grit guards work great for drying pads prior to storage in plastic bins.

[sparkie]

Awesome''

[Camaro2010]

APC will clean them up, just rinse well with water...I let my pads dry in a dish drainer...They will last for years...

Still new to this. What is APC? Also Can I put them in the washer and dryer without any issues?

[jmp09fg2]

APC= All purpose cleaner. I clean mine with megs APC+ mixed 10:1 if it is just a seal or wax job and I am only using two or three. If it is a full correction I put a scoop of DP pad rejuvinator and three gallons of water in a tub and throw a pad in when it gets clogged. While expensive, this stuff works like a charm (good for microfiber too).

And I'm pretty sure you want to avoid the washer and dryer. I think I read somewhere that pads like to turn into swiss roll looking creatures when thrown in the dryer and the backing will come off a lot sooner.

[Camaro2010]

Thanks for the help guys.

[doctordon]

Hey Camaro2010, same thing happened to me. All the suggestions above are great. After cleaning, you may not get 100% of the stain out but they will be usable again. As many have said before, don't close the bag.