If you’ve ever run your hand across a freshly washed car and felt the unmistakable grittiness of embedded contaminants, you already know why clay barring exists. That “sand-paper” sensation isn’t dirt you can rinse away—it’s industrial fallout, rail dust, overspray, and other pollutants that have chemically bonded to your clear-coat. Left untouched, these particles accelerate oxidation, dull reflection, and shorten the life of your sealant or ceramic coating. A clay bar kit engineered for heavy contamination is the fastest, safest way to restore glass-smooth paint before you polish or protect.
But walk down any auto-aisle (or scroll through an online marketplace) and you’ll see dozens of kits promising “professional results.” Some include ultra-fine clay designed for light dusting; others pack aggressive clay that can mar soft clear-coats if you look at it wrong. Knowing which features actually matter—abrasion level, lubrication chemistry, towel quality, ergonomic tools—can save you hours of labor and hundreds of dollars in potential paint correction. Below, we break down everything you need to understand before you drop a single clay bar on your paint.
Top 10 Clay Bar Kit
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Meguiar’s G191700 Smooth Surface Clay Kit, Safe and Easy Car Claying for Smooth as Glass Finish
Overview: Meguiar’s G191700 Smooth Surface Clay Kit turns the intimidating task of paint decontamination into a weekend-friendly driveway project. Designed for enthusiasts who want pro-level smoothness without a polisher, the kit bundles everything you need to strip invisible grime that washing leaves behind—overspray, rail dust, tree sap mist—so wax or sealant can bond to truly clean clear-coat. At under twenty bucks it’s one of the least expensive ways to feel a dramatic “glass-slide” difference the first time you run your hand across the hood.
What Makes It Stand Out: The non-abrasive, medium-grade clay is forgiving for beginners yet aggressive enough to pull heavy fallout in one pass. Meguiar’s pairs it with their Quik Detailer that doubles as lubricant and gloss booster, eliminating the need to buy a separate spray. The included Supreme Shine microfiber towel is plush enough for final wipe-down without adding swirl marks—small touches that show Meguiar’s understands garage detailers.
Value for Money: Three 60 g bars can decontaminate an average sedan 6–8 times; that’s roughly $2.50 per full-body session. Comparable kits charge extra for towels or lubricant, making this bundle a bargain compared to paying $150+ for a pro clay-bar treatment.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
- Safe on clear-coat, plastic trim, and glass
- Complete kit—no extra purchases needed
- Noticeable silk-smooth finish after first use
– Bars must be kneaded frequently in heavily contaminated areas
– Quik Detailer can run low if you over-spray large trucks/SUVs
Bottom Line: If your paint feels rough after washing or your wax stops beading, grab the Meguiar’s Clay Kit before winter sets in. It’s the cheapest, fastest route to that showroom glide and longer-lasting protection—no experience required.
2. Mothers California Gold 3 Clay Bar Complete Kit, 3 80-gram Clay Bars + 16 oz. Instant Detailer + Microfiber Towel — Removes Contaminants, Restores Brilliance & Smoothness of Paint (07240)
Overview:
Mothers California Gold 3 Clay Bar Complete Kit is an all-in-one solution designed to strip away the invisible layer of grit that washing alone can’t touch. The boxed set delivers three 80 g bars, a 16 oz bottle of Instant Detailer, and a 16”×16” microfiber towel—everything needed to turn rough paint into glass-smooth sheet metal in a single afternoon.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The clay itself is noticeably softer and more elastic than generic alternatives, folding without cracking and conforming to intricate body lines. Paired with Mothers’ lubricious Instant Detailer, the bar glides with almost zero drag, reducing the risk of marring on soft modern clear coats. Having three bars means you can dedicate one to paint, one to wheels/glass, and still keep a spare—rare at this price.
Value for Money:
At $23.88 the kit breaks down to under eight dollars per clay bar, essentially throwing in the detailer and towel for free. Comparable professional decontamination sessions run $100+ at a detail shop, so the ROI is immediate after one use.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: generous clay quantity; ultra-pliable, paint-safe formulation; excellent lubricant; clear step-by-step instructions.
Cons: towel is entry-grade and tends to lint on dark colors; bars can soften in high summer heat, so work in the shade; storage bag would be nice to keep clay clean between uses.
Bottom Line:
If you want to feel satin-smooth paint without paying pro-shop prices, this Mothers kit is the smartest purchase you can make. Wash, clay, wax—your car will look freshly painted for the cost of a pizza.
3. TEAWOO Clay Bars Kit, 6 Clay Bars & 20 PCS Lubricant Tablets, Complete Car Detailing Kit, Spray Bottle, Disposable Gloves and Microfiber Towels for Car Detailing Cleaning
Overview:
TEAWOO’s 6-bar clay kit bundles everything a weekend detailer needs: 400 g total of medium-grade clay, 20 effervescent lube tablets, a 250 ml spray bottle, ten nitrile gloves, and three 12”×12” microfiber towels. The whole arsenal arrives in a compact, resealable pouch that fits glove-box or trunk storage.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Dissolvable tablets mean no bulky liquid lube bottles—drop one in water and you get slick, streak-free slip in 30 s. The mixed bar sizes (2×100 g for full bodies, 4×50 g for spot jobs) reduce waste, and the included towels are tagged 380 gsm, edging out typical 220-gsm freebies in rival kits.
Value for Money:
At $14.99 you’re paying ≈$1.87 per ounce of clay plus accessories; local auto stores charge the same for two bars alone. Factor in 20 uses of lubricant (tablets) and three edge-sewn towels, and the effective cost per detail drops below $0.75—borderline disposable pricing for pro-level decontamination.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: generous clay mass, space-saving tablets, zero liquid leaks in shipping, bars remain pliable in 45 °F garage temps. Weaknesses: lube scent is industrial, towels lint on soft paint, tablets fizz best in warm water—cold weather delays activation, and the bars aren’t individually wrapped, so reseal quickly to avoid drying.
Bottom Line:
Beginners get a turnkey starter kit; seasoned hobbyists get bulk clay on the cheap. While towels and lube won’t wow pros, the clay itself performs like $30 competitors, making TEAWOO the smartest under-$15 paint-prep bargain this year.
4. Wontolf Car Clay Bars Auto Detailing and Clay Luber Synthetic Lubricant Kit, Premium Grade 4 Clay Bars, Clay bar Lubricant Tablets 10 Pack(1pc=16 fl oz), Car Wash Kit for Detailing Cleaning
Overview:
Wontolf’s kit bundles four 100 g premium-grade clay bars, ten effervescent lube tablets (each makes 16 oz of clay luber), a 16 oz spray bottle, and a microfiber towel—everything a weekend detailer needs to decontaminate paint, glass, wheels, even chrome exhaust tips before polishing or waxing. The bars are ultra-fine fiber reinforced, promising a glass-smooth finish without marring, while the fizzing tablets create a slick, high-lubricity film that keeps the clay gliding.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Effervescent lube tablets are a rare convenience—no measuring, no bulky pre-mix jugs; just drop, dissolve, and spray. Four full-size bars mean you can dedicate one to wheels, one to glass, and still have spares for motorcycles or household items. The included microfiber and bottle turn the kit into a true “grab-and-go” decon station.
Value for Money:
At $13.99 you’re paying roughly $3.50 per clay bar and $1 per bottle of synthetic luber, plus the towel and bottle thrown in. Comparable name-brand bars alone retail for $8-$12 each; here you get a complete system for the price of a single clay bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: generous quantities, slick lube prevents stiction, safe on all glossy surfaces, tablets store compactly. Cons: dissolving tablets takes a few minutes of fore-planning, spray bottle trigger is basic, and bars arrive loose in plastic wrap—reseal quickly to avoid drying.
Bottom Line:
For budget-minded enthusiasts who want professional-level decon without professional-level spend, Wontolf’s kit is a no-brainer. Stock up once and you’ll be claying cars, bikes, and even patio furniture for years.
5. Chemical Guys OG Clay Bar and Lubber Synthetic Lubricant Kit - Light/Medium Duty Clay for Removing embedded dirt from Paint, Glass, and Metal, Essential Detailing Accessory - 2 Items
Overview:
The Chemical Guys OG Clay Bar & Lubber Kit bundles a 100 g light/medium clay bar with 16 oz of synthetic clay lube for $24.99. Marketed as the gateway tool for “glass-like” paint, it promises to pull industrial fallout, sap, and brake dust from clear-coat, glass, chrome, and even single-stage finishes before you seal or ceramic-coat.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The synthetic Lubber lubricant is silicone-free, so it won’t interfere with coatings that follow, and the clay’s medium density is soft enough for monthly maintenance yet aggressive enough to tackle overspray—something usually reserved for pricier “fine” and “medium” bars sold separately.
Value for Money:
Two pro-grade products under twenty-five bucks equals roughly $3 per full-size car decon. Comparable bars alone cost $15-20, and most bundled lubes are just soapy water. You’re basically getting the lubricant free, plus a resealable jar that keeps the clay fresh for multiple seasons.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Safe on every exterior surface we tested (paint, windshield, polished exhaust tips); Lubber flashes off residue-free; bar stays pliable in 45 °F garage temps; clear pictorial instructions for first-timers.
Weaknesses: Light-duty formula won’t budge heavy rail dust—you’ll need a heavier bar or iron remover; white clay shows dirt quickly, so fold often or you’ll mar soft paints; spray trigger feels flimsy when wet.
Bottom Line:
If you clay twice a year or want an affordable introduction to paint decontamination, this kit is a no-brainer. Professionals will still want a heavier bar for correction work, but for enthusiasts chasing slick paint before wax season, Chemical Guys delivers pro results at DIY price.
6. Chemical Guys Medium Duty Clay Bar and Luber Synthetic Lubricant Kit - Removes embedded dirt, Restores Smooth Paint, Preps for Wax and Sealant - Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, 16 oz, 2 Items
Overview:
The Chemical Guys CLY_KIT_2 gives weekend detailers a pro-grade clay system in one affordable box: a 100-gram gray medium-duty bar plus 16 oz of Synthetic Luber. The combo targets the gritty contaminants washing can’t touch—overspray, rail dust, brake dust—restoring glass-smooth paint in under an hour and setting the stage for wax or sealant.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Unlike single-bar offerings, this kit pairs the correct lubricant with the clay, eliminating the guesswork and potential marring that comes with soapy water substitutes. The medium-grade bar is the “Goldilocks” cut: aggressive enough to pull industrial fallout yet gentle enough for clear coats, while the synthetic luber leaves zero sticky residue and extends the bar’s life.
Value for Money:
At $21.99 you’re paying roughly $11 per item—cheaper than buying most name-brand bars alone. Factor in the lubricant’s refill-ability and the bar’s ability to do three to four average-size cars, and the per-vehicle cost drops below a tunnel-wash premium.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: Complete kit; bar is pliable in cool temps; luber flashes off cleanly; safe on glass and chrome; generous 16 oz bottle lasts multiple jobs.
Cons: Storage jar is not airtight—reseal bag tightly or the bar dries out; medium grade won’t level heavy overspray (may need aggressive bar first); light-colored clay shows dirt quickly.
Bottom Line:
For less than the price of a basic hand wax you get a professional paint-prep system that makes subsequent coatings bond better and shine deeper. If your paint feels like 400-grit sandpaper after a wash, this kit belongs in your arsenal.
7. Stemni Heavy Duty Car Clay Bars Auto Detailing Clay Luber Synthetic Lubricant Kit, 4 Clay Bars, Clay Bar Lubricant Tablets 10 Pack, Spray Bottle and Microfiber Towel for Car Detailing Cleaning
Overview: The Stemni Heavy-Duty Clay Bar & Lubricant Kit bundles everything a weekend detailer needs to turn rough, contaminated paint into glass-smooth sheet metal. Four 100 g ultra-fine clay bars, ten effervescent lube tablets that fizz into 16 oz of slick spray each, a 500 ml bottle and a plush 16”×16” microfiber arrive in one tidy box—no extra purchases required.
What Makes It Stand Out: Dissolvable lube tablets are the headline trick; drop one in water and you’ve got pro-grade clay lube without shipping liquid weight. The medium-soft clay is dyed bright blue so you can see contaminants lifting, and the kit is pre-portioned for four full details or dozens of spot cleans.
Value for Money: At $14.99 you’re paying under $4 per complete detail, cheaper than a single car-wash tunnel ticket. Comparable name-brand bars alone cost $10–12; here you also get ten bottles worth of lubricant and a quality towel—legitimate bargain territory.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros:
- Effervescent tablets store forever and travel TSA-friendly
- Clay is pliable even in 45 °F weather, rarely folds grit into itself
- Safe on clear-coated wheels, glass, chrome and plastic lenses
Cons:
- Tablets dissolve slowly in cold water; plan 5 min extra
- Microfiber is 220 gsm—adequate but not premium
- No storage jar; re-seal clay in zip bags or it dries out
Bottom Line: For driveway warriors who clay twice a year, Stemni delivers pro-level smoothness at pocket-money pricing. The tablet lube system alone justifies the ticket, making this kit an easy “add to cart” for anyone chasing that mirror finish before wax season.
8. Chemical Guys Complete Clay Kit, Paint Restoration Kit for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, & More
Overview:
The Chemical Guys Complete Clay Kit bundles everything a weekend detailer needs to resurrect tired paint in one $24.99 box: a 100 g clay bar, 16 oz Clay Luber, 16 oz Butter Wet Wax, and a premium microfiber towel. Marketed toward cars, trucks, and SUVs, the kit promises to strip embedded contaminants and then glaze the surface with a deep, wet shine—all without requiring a polisher or prior experience.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Chemical Guys’ synthetic clay is more forgiving than traditional medium-grade bars, making it safe for first-timers on clear-coat, single-stage, or wrapped finishes. The included Butter Wet Wax is a liquid crème that melts on and wipes off in minutes, skipping the chalky residue common with paste waxes. Together, the two-step “decontaminate then coat” system delivers professional-level smoothness and gloss without expensive tools.
Value for Money:
At under twenty-five bucks, you’re effectively paying $8 each for the clay, lube, and wax if purchased separately—roughly half the cost of buying individual Chemical Guys bottles. Factor in the towel and the instructional QR code, and the kit pays for itself after one use versus a $150 detailing shop clay-bar treatment.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: beginner-friendly, pleasant mango scent, generous product volume, works on glass and wheels too.
Weaknesses: single clay bar risks dropping contamination (no spare included), Butter Wet Wax lasts only 6–8 weeks, plastic tub lid can crack in cold garages.
Bottom Line:
For less than the price of a car-wash punch card, the Complete Clay Kit delivers showroom-smooth paint and a slick, reflective finish in under two hours. It’s the easiest, cheapest way to feel the “mirror glide” before committing to sealants or coatings.
9. XPERTCHEMY Car Clay Bars Auto Detailing 4 Pack 400g(4x100g) and Clay bar Lubricant Tablets 10 Pack(1pcs=16 oz) Clay bar kit, Spray Bottle and Microfiber Towel for Car Detailing
Overview:
XPERTCHEMY’s 4-clay/4-lube kit delivers pro-grade decontamination for under fifteen bucks. Each 100 g bar is vacuum-wrapped, the 10 dissolvable tablets turn any 16 oz bottle into slick lube, and a plush microfiber rounds out the bundle—everything you need to turn rough paint glass-smooth in one afternoon.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Dissolvable lubricant tablets eliminate the usual hunt for a dedicated quick-detailer; just add water and shake. The clay itself is ultra-fine grade, softer than most consumer bars, letting you clay windows, chrome, and clear bra without fear. Four smaller bars instead of one giant block mean you always have a clean piece and less waste if you drop one.
Value for Money:
At $14.99 you’re paying about $3.75 per clay bar and $1 per bottle of lube—cheaper than a single commercial clay mitt and far less than a professional detail. Factor in the included spray bottle and towel and the kit pays for itself after one use on a contaminated hood.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths – clay is genuinely soft, tablets dissolve instantly, no marring on soft Honda clear coat, generous 400 g total clay.
Weaknesses – lube has slight fruity odor some may dislike, spray bottle feels thin, microfiber is entry-level and may lint on dark cars.
Bottom Line:
For weekend detailers who want pro results without pro invoices, XPERTCHEMY is the best bargain on the market. Stock up; once your friends feel your paint, they’ll want the second bar.
10. Chemical Guys Heavy Duty Clay Bar and Luber Synthetic Lubricant Kit, 2-Piece Car Detailing Kit with Clay Bar and 16 oz Spray Lubricant for Paint, Glass, and Clear Coat Surfaces - Black
Overview:
The Chemical Guys Heavy Duty Clay Bar & Luber Kit is a two-piece set aimed at anyone who wants “show-room smooth” paint without paying a pro. The black clay bar is the firmest grade Chemical Guys offers, paired with a 16 oz bottle of synthetic luber that replaces the old-school quick-detailer-plus-clay routine. Together they strip the invisible grit that normal washing leaves behind, prepping surfaces for wax, sealant, or ceramic coating.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Unlike consumer-grade “medium” clay, this heavy-duty bar tackles baked-on rail dust, tree sap, and industrial fallout in one pass, cutting prep time for weekend detailers. The included luber is silicone-free, so body-shop guys can clay before paint without worry, and its synthetic formula won’t gum up or evaporate in summer heat.
Value for Money:
At $21.99 you’re getting roughly 3-4 full-size cars per bar and enough luber for twice that. Professional clay service runs $75+ per vehicle, so the kit pays for itself on the first use. Replacement bars alone retail for $15-$17; having the dedicated luber thrown in seals the deal.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: aggressive contaminant removal, generous luber volume, safe on glass and chrome, clear how-to card included.
Weaknesses: bar is stiff when cold—knead thoroughly or it will mar soft paint; dark residue shows on light-colored cars (cosmetic, but distracting).
Bottom Line:
If your paint feels like 320-grit sandpaper after a wash, this kit is the cheapest ticket to glass-smooth gloss. Knead generously, keep it lubricated, and you’ll achieve pro-level prep for under twenty-five bucks.
Understanding Clay Bar Chemistry and Contamination Types
Clay bars are engineered poly-elastomers suspended in a pliable resin. Their sticky surface shears off contaminants that are harder than the clear-coat but softer than the clay itself. The key is matching the clay’s “cut” to the type and density of pollution on your vehicle.
Why Heavy Contamination Requires a Specialized Kit
Light-duty clay may glide over surface grit without fully removing it, while overly aggressive clay can leave marring on thin modern clear-coats. Heavy-contamination kits balance high shear strength with lubricants that minimize friction, plus often include iron removers and stronger towels to cope with the extra residue.
Aggressive vs. Fine Grade Clay: When to Step Up
Fine grade clay is perfect for bi-annual decon on garaged vehicles. Aggressive clay is reserved for cars that sit outside near railroads, shipyards, or construction sites. The trick is starting with the least aggressive grade that completes the job in two passes—any more and you’re polishing needlessly.
Synthetic Polymer Clays: The Modern Alternative
Poly-clays (sometimes called “synthetic” or “elastic” clay) last longer, resist tearing, and can be rinsed clean with water. They’re color-coded for cut level and often come in mitts or blocks that cover more area faster—ideal for SUVs and trucks battling thick fallout.
Traditional Natural Clay Bars: Still Relevant?
Natural clay harvested from the earth is ultra-pure and tacky, offering unmatched “grab” on rough paint. Purists love its feedback—when the noise quiets, the paint is clean. Downsides: single-use if dropped, shorter shelf life, and higher price per gram.
Lubrication Chemistry: Why Your Quick Detailer Isn’t Enough
Heavy contamination requires a lubricant with higher film strength and more polymers to suspend loosened grit. Dedicated clay lubes often contain anti-corrosives that flash off slowly, letting the clay slide without drying mid-panel. Using a quick detailer meant for dusting can lead to sticky drag and marring.
The Role of Iron Removers in a Complete Decon Cycle
Iron removers (fallout gels) chemically dissolve ferrous particles before you ever touch the paint. Spraying iron remover first turns purple as it reacts, shrinking particles so the clay has less work. Skipping this step on heavily contaminated cars means you’ll push more grit across the surface, increasing scratch risk.
Evaluating Towel Quality and Why It Matters
A 350 gsm, edgeless, 70/30 microfiber towel traps loosened particles instead of dragging them. Cheap 80/20 towels scratch and lint, especially when soaked with lube and iron residue. Look for ultrasonic-cut edges and a high pile to act as a safety net during the final wipe-down.
Ergonomic Tools: Handles, Mitts, and Blocks Explained
Traditional clay forces finger pressure, creating hot spots and hand fatigue. Mitts and blocks distribute force evenly and let you cover large, flat panels quickly. Handles with foam grips reduce cramping during long decon sessions—crucial when you’re claying a lifted truck or a Sprinter van.
Durability Metrics: How Many Vehicles Should a Kit Handle?
A 200 g aggressive clay bar can decon up to eight sedans if stored moist and never dropped. Synthetic mitts last 30–50 vehicles but lose shear strength after repeated rinses. Calculate cost per car, not sticker price, when comparing kits.
Storage and Shelf-Life Tips to Prevent Clay Drying
Always seal clay in its original wrapper or an airtight pouch with a few drops of lubricant. Store below 85 °F—heat hardens the resin, making the bar brittle. If clay dries, submerge it in warm distilled water with a drop of glycerin for 30 min; knead gently before reuse.
Common Application Mistakes That Ruin Paint
Working in direct sun bakes the lube, turning clay into sanding paper. Re-using a dropped bar without inspecting it is like rubbing gravel into clear-coat. Folding the clay too aggressively traps grit inside—instead, stretch and fold slowly, then tear off the contaminated layer.
Two-Step Decon: Chemical Before Mechanical
Spray iron remover, rinse, then tar remover if needed. Only after the chemical film flashes off do you introduce clay. This sequence removes 70–80 % of contamination chemically, letting the clay finish the job with minimal abrasion.
Post-Clay Paint Prep: Why You Must Polish or Use a Filler
Clay exfoliates clear-coat, leaving micro-scuffs that scatter light. A light polish or a filler-rich cleanser oil hides these marks and restores gloss. Skipping this step is why some cars look hazy even after a fresh wax job.
Environmental Considerations: Temperature, Shade, and Humidity
Ideal conditions: 65–75 °F, 50–70 % humidity, full shade. Cold clay stiffens; hot paint flashes lube instantly. If you must work in summer, panel-wipe with cold distilled water first to drop surface temps, then clay small 2 ft x 2 ft sections.
Cost vs. Performance: Budgeting for the Long Haul
A $40 kit with 200 g aggressive clay, 16 oz iron remover, and two premium towels costs less than a single pro detail. Spread across four cars per year for three years, your cost per vehicle sits under $3.50—cheap insurance against a $600 paint correction bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a clay bar on glass, chrome, and wheels?
Yes, clay is safe on all hard surfaces; just reserve a separate piece for wheels to avoid cross-contaminating paint with brake dust.
2. How do I know when the clay is too contaminated to reuse?
If folding and kneading still reveals dark streaks or the bar feels gritty, discard it—continued use risks scratching.
3. Is synthetic clay better than natural clay for beginners?
Synthetic mitts are more forgiving, cover area faster, and survive drops, making them ideal for first-timers.
4. Do I need to polish every time I clay?
On heavy contamination, yes—clay micro-marries the surface. A light polish or cleanser oil restores gloss and prep for protection.
5. Can I clay a ceramic-coated car?
Only if the coating is old and losing hydrophobicity; use ultra-fine clay and a high-slick lube to minimize coating removal.
6. What happens if I drop the clay bar?
Inspect under strong light—any embedded grit means trash it. Even tiny pebbles will gouge clear-coat on the next pass.
7. How often should I clay my daily driver?
In most climates, twice a year—spring after pollen season and fall before winter sealing. Cars near railroads or ports may need quarterly decon.
8. Can I make my own clay lubricant?
A mix of 1 oz car-shampoo to 16 oz distilled water works short-term, but lacks the polymers of dedicated lube, increasing marring risk on heavy jobs.
9. Will clay remove water spots or etching?
Clay only tackles above-surface contaminants. Mineral etching requires polishing or a water-spot remover acid.
10. Does clay expire?
Unopened natural clay lasts 3–5 years if cool and sealed. Opened bars dry out in 12–18 months; synthetic mitts degrade slower but lose tack after ~4 years.