I've been using these pads for a long time. When they stopped making the 3" version for about 6 months, I started to explore some other offerings, but I have always preferred the Meguiar's. Maybe the reason I like them so much is just familiarity, but there is no doubt these are really good. I've learned how most paints react to these with various polishes. Most commonly I will use this pad with Jescar Correcting Compound. Meguiar's also makes Heavy Cut and Finishing microfiber polishing pads, but I've never found a need for those. I only use this version that is called Cutting microfiber.
A couple of things to note when using:
- Microfiber, by design and make-up, grabs things and holds onto them. You'll want to have some kind of air source to blow out the pads often when using with a polish.
- I generally only get these out of the cabinet when I am going to get more aggressive. So I would typically use when I have scratches that won't come out with foam and a milder polish. Use with Jescar Correcting Compound, Meguiar's M105/M100/M101, Scholl's S3 Gold, etc.
- I think it is important to prime these by spreading polish onto each fiber prior to use.
These come in 3 sizes and only come in 2 Packs. I think you will want at least 6 of each size. I have 12 of each in my cabinet, all slightly oversized on their respective backing plate sizes. This offers a degree of safety when approaching edges and curves.
- 3" is 3.25"
- 5" is 5.5"
- 6" is 6.25"
I clean them in the sink using Optimum APC after every use. If you take care of them, they generally last a long time. Don't wash with anything that leaves a residue behind that could affect the paint next time you polish. Dawn leaves something behind on the pads, so it is recommended you don't use that. I also rarely get them washed right after a day of polishing, so there is no rush to get most water based polishes washed out.