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Automotive glossary

Snow Foam

Snow foam is a thick cleaning foam sprayed on a car before contact washing to loosen and lift dirt.

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What is Snow Foam?

It is applied with a foam lance on a pressure washer. It reduces the grit that would otherwise be rubbed into the paint. It is usually left to dwell for a few minutes and then rinsed off. The foam’s thickness depends on the product, the dilution and the lance setting.

How it works

Surfactants in the foam surround dirt particles and help them run off the surface.

Why it matters for your car

Do not let the foam dry on the paint in hot sun. Strong alkaline foams can weaken wax or sealant.

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