Wasting Time Taping?

[AustrianOak82]

In the old days, wax would stain trim pretty heavily so it was necessary to tape the trim off and make sure it didn't touch it. I know there are a lot of newer waxes that don't stain the trim at all. I was wondering the other day as I was spending 10 minutes taping the car off if I am wasting my time and money taping. Are the products I am currently using not even going to stain the trim? I have used Meguiar's cleaner wax since the mid 90's and it used to stain really bad.

Do you guys always tape? I always have but was wondering. I have accidently gotten product on the trim and it hasn't stained to my knowledge. I typically use:

Meguiar's UC and UP, sometimes CW and UW. Also M205.

[allenk4]

I suggest taping if you are compounding to avoid the abrasives potentially damaging the trim

There are too many good LSP's out there to use one that stains trim

[Rsurfer]

I tape only before polishing. Lsp right after so the tape is already there protecting the trim. All my trim have a protectant so I doubt if any lsp would stain it. The problem is getting the tape to stick.

[Mike Phillips]

One thing for sure... if you are using a product that stains trim and you get some on the trim it's like almost impossible to remove it 100% and you'll end up messing with it for the rest of your life or as long as you own the car.

For compounds and polishes I tape-off.

For non-staining waxes or sealants I slow down and be careful.

One thing for sure, I love detailing cars but hate trying to remove residues off of plastic trim and the worst type of plastic trim is the pebble textured plastic trim.

It's my theory that the person that invented pebble textured plastic trim has never washed and waxed a car.

[hilld]

It's my theory that the person that invented pebble textured plastic trim has never washed and waxed a car.

That quote can be used for so many things. Just like the mechanic saying if the engineer had to fix this, he would have designed it much more user friendly.

[CarolinasFinestDetailing]

You are so right Mike...especially GM trim!!!!

Honestly OP, I do not wax anymore, and haven`t for a long time. But when I did, I waxed via machine, the Griots 3" unit mainly. I feel that you are able to be more precise applying wax around trim with a machine and especially spread it equally. We all hate dealing with the dried globs.

[AustrianOak82]

Well that settles it! Thanks guys.

[WAXOFF]

I tape certain mouldings but not every car.

[Kamakaz1961]

I am a no tape person, just a very careful person when you get close to the trim. I do use products that do not stain trim. I think with an excellent quality product you can skip that step. At least in my case that is so. If I can avoid taping I will as that takes quite a bit of time.

Technique helps. I am probably going against the grain here on this thread and many will say I am nuts, blasphemy, ewww and whatever pun intended; that's OK...Merry Christmas everyone!! LOL

If I absolutely have to tape I will so do not think I do not tape at all....I will if I have too. Depends on car....

[allenk4]

I do use products that do not stain trim

....

Which non-staining compounds are you using?