It sounds like the main reason they look perfect to begin with is because they’re wet? Otherwise I’m not sure why the final wipedown doesn’t get them back to looking good?

Me personally I use Hyper Dressing on those step rails that are found on Chevy Silverados. I apply it with the same brush I apply tire dressing on. Never had a problem.

Cleaning them with APC gets them clean, but then they dry and don’t look so great.