Someone asked me a question once, so I had a summary of my routine in my sent messages. Here it is:
Step 1: Hand wash
I used "Flynn's Carnauba Wash," but I don't think it is available to the public. Meguiars Gold Class also works very well and is very available. I always use a microfiber mit to wash cars. Hand dry to avoid spots ("the Absorber" works very well for drying and is available at most stores). Also, remove any bugs or tar with a bug sponge and bug/tar remover prior to washing.
Step 2: Clay Bar
Meguiars and Mothers have clay bar kits in Autozone, Auto Advantage, etc. They are essentially the same thing: Clay bar, Lube (usually instant detailer), and a sample of wax. Once the car is dry, clay it. Here is a great article explaining this step:
http://www.autogeek.net/detailing-clay-bar.html The clay lube can just be polished with a microfiber towel in a circular motion. This alone will have your car looking good but ALWAYS FOLLOW WITH A WAX (Step 4).
Step 3: Polish
I usually use an orbital buffer, but the battery died halfway through. I use "Meguiar's Color X." It is a great product and is a polish/wax blend. You basically apply it, let it dry, and buff it off. An orbital buffer is definitely worth the money ($30 or less at Home Depot). Don't use a rotary buffer. It can be done by hand, but takes longer and usually results in swirl marks. With the orbital buffer, use one bonnet for application and one for buffing (you'll need a total of 4 (2 polish, and 2 wax)). The buffer should come with directions.
Step 4: Wax
You have many, many choices when it comes to wax: Liquid, paste, and even spray. Because Meguiar's Color X Polish has wax in it, you would be safe using a spray wax. They work well, but don't last as long. Try Eagle One Nanowax-it's incredible. On my car, I used a private detailing brand called "Majestic Cherry Wet Wax." My buffer had died by this point, so I did it by hand. If I were you, I would use the Nanowax spray-on. Very easy and does not require much time. For a non-spray wax, see this article
http://www.eagleone.com/pages/carcar...step.asp?sid=5
Step 5: Gloss
Once again, I used a private detailing brand. This step is optional. You can use any "Quick Detailer" spray (i.e. Eagle One "Wipe and Shine"). Always use microfiber towels!
And of course there's tire wet, metal polish, etc.
As for the inside, I use a warm water extractor (the absolute BEST way to clean carpet or upholstery). Meguiar's Gold Class leather wipes are excelent for the leather, and Meguiar's Quick Interior Detailer works on basically everything else.
Hope this helps-
If you have any questions, pm me.