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10 Best Rim Cleaners 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner 230500 | Heavy-Duty Brake Dust Remover for All Wheels | Safe on Painted, Alloy, Chrome & Stainless Steel | pH Neutral, Acid-Free, with Color-Changing Action | 5 Liter
The SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner is a strong choice if you're looking for a rim cleaner that tackles tough brake dust, oil, and road grime effectively. Its pH-neutral and acid-free formula means it’s gentle on a wide variety of wheel types—including painted, alloy, chrome, stainless steel, and more—so you don't have to worry about damage or fading. A standout feature is its color-changing action: the cleaner sprays on green and shifts to red or purple as it works, giving you a clear visual cue when the dirt is being dissolved. This makes it easier to know when to rinse off, which is quite handy if you want to avoid guesswork.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,412
Ease of Use
Type of Rim Cleaner
pH Level
Most important from
5670 reviews
#2
Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent, Cleaner for Tires, Wheels, Rims, 11 Fl Oz Each
The Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent serves as both a cleaner and a protective agent for tires, wheels, and rims. It stands out by forming an invisible barrier that helps keep rims cleaner for up to four weeks, which means less frequent cleaning is needed. This protective feature is a big plus for anyone looking to maintain their wheels' appearance without too much effort.
Rating
9.1
Ease of Use
Protective Features
Most important from
5955 reviews
#3
Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armor Wheel Cleaner, Rims Cleaner Protects Alloy Rims, Brake Dust Remover Wheel Cleaner Repels Brake Dirt for up to 12 Months - 1 fl oz (30ml), Sufficient for 4 x 21 Outer Rims
The Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armor Wheel Cleaner is designed to keep alloy rims clean and reduce the buildup of brake dust and road dirt. Its key strength lies in its ability to make surfaces slick, allowing dirt and grime to be easily brushed or rinsed off, minimizing cleaning effort. The product chemically bonds to the wheel surface, providing a durable, long-lasting protective layer that repels dirt for up to 12 months, making it suitable for those seeking long-term maintenance with minimal reapplication.
Rating
8.5
Ease of Use
Protective Features
Type of Rim Cleaner
Most important from
714 reviews
Top 10 Best Rim Cleaners 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner 230500 | Heavy-Duty Brake Dust Remover for All Wheels | Safe on Painted, Alloy, Chrome & Stainless Steel | pH Neutral, Acid-Free, with Color-Changing Action | 5 Liter
SONAX Full Effect Wheel Cleaner 230500 | Heavy-Duty Brake Dust Remover for All Wheels | Safe on Painted, Alloy, Chrome & Stainless Steel | pH Neutral, Acid-Free, with Color-Changing Action | 5 Liter
Type of Rim Cleaner: color-changing spray
pH Level: pH-neutral
Compatibility with Rim Material: painted, alloy, chrome, stainless steel
Ease of Use: spray, let sit, scrub, rinse
Environmental Impact: acid-free, pH-neutral
Protective Features: gentle, no damage or fading
Chosen by 1412 this week
Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent, Cleaner for Tires, Wheels, Rims, 11 Fl Oz Each
Armor All Car Brake Cleaner Dust Repellent, Cleaner for Tires, Wheels, Rims, 11 Fl Oz Each
Ease of Use: easy to apply, 11 oz spray
Protective Features: forms barrier, keeps rims clean 4 weeks
Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armor Wheel Cleaner, Rims Cleaner Protects Alloy Rims, Brake Dust Remover Wheel Cleaner Repels Brake Dirt for up to 12 Months - 1 fl oz (30ml), Sufficient for 4 x 21 Outer Rims
Gtechniq C5 Wheel Armor Wheel Cleaner, Rims Cleaner Protects Alloy Rims, Brake Dust Remover Wheel Cleaner Repels Brake Dirt for up to 12 Months - 1 fl oz (30ml), Sufficient for 4 x 21 Outer Rims
Type of Rim Cleaner: Wheel Cleaner
Compatibility with Rim Material: matte, satin, powder-coated
Protective Features: chemically bonds, repels dirt, 12 months
Armor All Wheel and Tire Cleaner and Tire Shine Kit, Heavy Duty Car Wheel Cleaner, Extreme Tire Shine Spray and Wash Brush - 3 Count
Armor All Wheel and Tire Cleaner and Tire Shine Kit, Heavy Duty Car Wheel Cleaner, Extreme Tire Shine Spray and Wash Brush - 3 Count
Type of Rim Cleaner: heavy-duty cleaner
Ease of Use: color-change tech
Protective Features: protect from cracking and fading
Chemical Guys Diablo Gel Oxygen Infused Foam Wheel & Rim Cleaner - Concentrated Formula Safe on All Wheel Finishes, Removes Brake Dust, Dirt & Grime, for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles & RVs, 16 oz
Chemical Guys Diablo Gel Oxygen Infused Foam Wheel & Rim Cleaner - Concentrated Formula Safe on All Wheel Finishes, Removes Brake Dust, Dirt & Grime, for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles & RVs, 16 oz
Type of Rim Cleaner: Gel
Compatibility with Rim Material: suitable for all finishes
Ease of Use: easy to use
Environmental Impact: biodegradable
Protective Features: non-caustic, no heavy acids or alkaline
Related Products
Up to 20% off
SONAX 02305050 Wheel Cleaner Plus (5L)
SONAX 02305050 Wheel Cleaner Plus (5L)
Type of Rim Cleaner: Wheel Cleaner Plus
pH Level: pH-balanced
Compatibility with Rim Material: chrome, aluminum, steel, painted
Ease of Use: high
Protective Features: changes color when cleaning
Chemical Guys CLD_203_1602 Signature Series Wheel Cleaner, Formated for All Gloss Finishes, Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles, RVs & More 16 fl oz (2 Pack)
Chemical Guys CLD_203_1602 Signature Series Wheel Cleaner, Formated for All Gloss Finishes, Safe for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles, RVs & More 16 fl oz (2 Pack)
Type of Rim Cleaner: Citrus-based spray
Compatibility with Rim Material: Alloy, plastic, motorcycle, RV rims
Protective Features: Reduces buildup and corrosion
#10
Chemical Guys Decon Pro Iron Remover and Wheel Cleaner – Professional Strength Fallout Remover for Wheels, Brakes, Calipers, Tires and Exterior – Dissolves Brake Dust and Dirt, 16 oz
Chemical Guys Decon Pro Iron Remover and Wheel Cleaner – Professional Strength Fallout Remover for Wheels, Brakes, Calipers, Tires and Exterior – Dissolves Brake Dust and Dirt, 16 oz
Type of Rim Cleaner: Wheel Cleaner
Ease of Use: Easy
Protective Features: Neutralizes corrosion, prevents rust and paint damage
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Buying Guide for the Best Rim Cleaners
Choosing the right rim cleaner for your vehicle is essential to maintain the appearance and longevity of your wheels. Rim cleaners are designed to remove dirt, brake dust, and grime that accumulate on your rims over time. The right product will not only clean effectively but also protect your rims from damage. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a rim cleaner, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.Type of Rim CleanerRim cleaners come in various types, including sprays, gels, and foams. Sprays are easy to apply and are great for regular maintenance. Gels tend to cling better to the surface, making them effective for heavy-duty cleaning. Foams can expand to cover more area and penetrate hard-to-reach spots. Choose a type based on how dirty your rims typically get and how much effort you're willing to put into cleaning them.
pH LevelThe pH level of a rim cleaner indicates its acidity or alkalinity. Acidic cleaners are very effective at removing tough grime and brake dust but can be harsh on certain types of rims, especially if they are not coated. Neutral pH cleaners are safer for all rim types and are less likely to cause damage. Alkaline cleaners are also effective and generally safer than acidic ones. If you have delicate or expensive rims, opt for a neutral or mildly alkaline cleaner.
Compatibility with Rim MaterialRims can be made from various materials such as aluminum, chrome, alloy, or painted surfaces. It's crucial to choose a cleaner that is compatible with your specific rim material to avoid damage. For example, some cleaners are specifically formulated for chrome rims, while others are safe for painted or powder-coated surfaces. Always check the product label to ensure it is suitable for your rim type.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor, especially if you plan to clean your rims frequently. Some cleaners require scrubbing, while others are spray-on and rinse-off. If you prefer a quick and hassle-free cleaning process, look for a product that offers easy application and minimal scrubbing. However, for heavily soiled rims, a cleaner that requires some scrubbing might be more effective.
Environmental ImpactConsider the environmental impact of the rim cleaner you choose. Some products contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Eco-friendly rim cleaners are formulated with biodegradable ingredients and are less harmful to the environment. If environmental sustainability is important to you, look for products labeled as eco-friendly or biodegradable.
Protective FeaturesSome rim cleaners offer additional protective features such as anti-corrosion agents or a protective coating that repels dirt and brake dust. These features can help keep your rims cleaner for longer and protect them from damage. If you want to reduce the frequency of cleaning and add an extra layer of protection to your rims, consider a cleaner with these added benefits.