Alloy wheels have become a chic and elegant fashion ... But their open-spoke design, which exposes the brakes behind them, can allow brake dust and road grime to accumulate quickly.

To most car enthusiasts and car owners, the most important part of their car’s aesthetics are the wheels. New wheels are often the very first thing new owners get for their otherwise stock cars.

Of course, specialized cleaners will rid your wheels of brake dust and tar stains faster than using soap and water alone. However, you don't need to use those cleaning products for every wash.