I'll take a stab at your questionsslacker86 said:
1. Its better to use a *geniune* sheepskin wash mitt. MFs absorb way too much which include the dirt and grime on your car that can potentially create swirl marks. A sponge isn't good because of the same possibilities of inducing swirl marks. I would recommend getting a couple *genuine* sheepskin wash mitts and wash using the two bucket technique (one soap, one rinse) to minimize the risk of creating swirls.
2. MFs are made to absorb A LOT more than a regular t-shirt. When more water is absorbed less time is spent to dry the car, and it also reduces the amount of passes you need to make. What you should use for drying your car are called "waffle weave" MFs which absorb even more then your regular MF.
3. This question is like asking which intake is better. Your going to get different opinions and viewpoints. My take on the subject of clay is from what I understand only 1 or 2 big companies produce clay in Japan. Theres also two different types of clay: poly and elastic. So essentially all the clay is pretty much made from the same place, its just altered a tad bit and packaged differently. In my opinion I would just go with Clay Magic or the Mother's kit. For about $10-15 for a little kit locally at AutoZone, Wal-Mart, etc. you really can't go wrong. I'm not bashing Zaino or other high-priced clays, I just feel for this step pretty much any detailing clay will work. I also try to budget my money and feel getting Clay Magic locally is the easiest and most cost efficient way to go for enthusiasts as well as professionals. Essentially there all doing the same thing; pulling off embedded debris and containments from your surface.
Any other questions, shoot away, I hope I answered this questions clear enough. :thumbsup:
