How to Use Optimum No Rinse (ONR) for Every Car Detailing Need

Optimum No Rinse (ONR) is a versatile and eco-friendly detailing product that has gained popularity among car enthusiasts and professional detailers alike. Its versatility comes from its unique formulation, which allows it to be used for a range of applications, from rinseless washes to clay lubrication. However, ONR needs to be diluted at specific ratios for each purpose to achieve optimal performance without wasting product.

Understanding ONR Dilution Ratios

Diluting ONR correctly is key to getting the best results without overusing product. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended dilution ratios (water) for various detailing tasks:

• Rinseless Washing – 256:1
• Water Softener – 256:1
• Glass Cleaner – 256:1
• Clay Lubricant – 64:1
• Quick Detailer – 16:1
• Drying Aid – 16:1
• Interior Cleaner – 256:1
• Pre-Rinse for Washing – 256:1
• Engine Bay Cleaning – 16:1

To make it even easier, I’ll include precise measurements later in this article.

Rinseless Washing with ONR

Rinseless washing is ONR’s primary application. Ideal for when access to running water is limited, this method uses minimal water and is safe on coated and non-coated cars. Optimum No Rinse is also very useful to use during colder months, as you can wipe it off before the water freezes on a car. It’s highly effective and much safer than alternative methods for cleaning a car in the cold weather.

How to Use:

1. Mix 1 oz of ONR with 2 gallons of water (30 ml in 7.5 liters).
2. Pre-rinse the vehicle if it’s especially dirty.
3. Soak a microfiber towel in the ONR solution, wring it out slightly, and wipe each section in straight lines.
4. Dry each section with a clean, dry microfiber towel.

Pros:

• Conserves water, ideal for areas with restrictions.
• Very economical: costs about $0.56 per wash.
• Safe for use in direct sunlight.

Cons:

• Not suited for heavily soiled vehicles.

Using ONR as a Clay Lubricant

ONR also makes an excellent clay bar lubricant due to its slickness and low cost compared to traditional lubricants. It’s especially effective if you plan to do paint correction afterward since it doesn’t leave residues like waxes or sealants.

How to Use:

1. Dilute ONR to 64:1 in a spray bottle.
2. After washing, spray liberally onto the panel and clay bar.
3. Use straight-line motions with light pressure.

Pros:

• Economical at $0.28 per use.
• Prevents marring and scratching.

Cons:

• Requires frequent spraying compared to shampoo-based lubricants.

Quick Detailer

Optimum No Rinse at a 16:1 ratio serves as a great quick detailer, especially for removing light dust and fingerprints without inflicting swirl marks.

How to Use:

1. Mix ONR to a 16:1 ratio in a spray bottle.
2. Spray onto the surface and wipe with a clean microfiber towel, drying off with another side of the towel.

Pros:

• Provides more lubrication than traditional quick detailers.
• Costs about $1.12 per use.

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer protective elements found in other quick detailers.

Drying Aid

Using a drying aid helps prevent water spots and adds a streak-free shine. ONR works well as a drying aid at a 16:1 dilution ratio.

How to Use:

1. After washing, dilute ONR to 16:1 in a spray bottle.
2. Spray onto each panel and onto your drying towel.

Pros:

• Effective at reducing water spots.
• Cost-efficient at approximately $1.12 per use.

Cons:

• Doesn’t add any protection to the paint.

ONR as a Glass Cleaner

Many detailers enjoy ONR as a glass cleaner due to its streak-free finish that won’t degrade coatings. Simply dilute to 256:1, which is very economical.

How to Use:

1. Mix ONR to a 256:1 ratio in a spray bottle.
2. Apply to glass with a microfiber towel, wipe in a cross-hatch pattern, and then buff with a dry side.

Pros:

• Very affordable at only $0.07 per use.
• Gentle on coatings and leaves no streaks.

Cons:

• Slightly longer drying time than traditional glass cleaners.

Interior Cleaner

ONR can also be used to refresh interior surfaces, making it a quick and cost-effective alternative to traditional interior cleaners.

How to Use:

1. Dilute ONR to 256:1 in a spray bottle.
2. Spray lightly onto a microfiber towel and wipe down interior surfaces.

Pros:

• Leaves a residue-free finish without altering the appearance of surfaces.
• Inexpensive at $0.07 per use.

Cons:

• Not strong enough for heavily soiled interiors.

Pre-Rinse Aid

ONR can serve as a lubricating pre-rinse before a traditional wash, helping loosen dirt to minimize scratches from grit.

How to Use:

1. Dilute to 256:1 and spray onto the vehicle before rinsing.
2. Allow it to sit for a few seconds, then rinse off and proceed with washing.

Pros:

• Adds lubrication to the pre-rinse process, minimizing scratches on delicate paint.
• Extremely low cost.

Cons:

• May not provide significant benefits on tougher, dirtier vehicles.

Conversions for ONR Dilution Ratios

To make it easier to mix the correct amounts, here’s a quick reference for common conversions:

Optimum No Rinse is a versatile and economical tool for any detailing arsenal, and these dilution ratios make it simple to tailor for each specific purpose. Whether you’re washing, drying, or cleaning glass and interior surfaces, ONR is a valuable option.