I'm not really a -brush- guy when it comes down to the interiors.....However, I was quite surprised 2 spritzes of product in a brush was more than adequalty enough to lather up a steering wheel.
I for sure use up alot more when I'm just spritzing into a MF and doing a wipe
Have I been doing it wrong all this time
By its very nature, microfiber is highly absorbent, which would explain why you need more product to be effective. Whereas brushes hold the product between the mass of bristles rather than absorbing it, which can sometimes means longer working times.
In terms of "foam" being used on a steering wheel, its beneficial in that it tends to keep the product in place, which can be tricky on a vertical surface like a steering wheel. You also have a little more control on where the cleaner goes, ie not drenching buttons.
Brush vs towel, that would just depend on what level of grime you are dealing with. For example, on my well maintained cars, I spray cleaner into a towel and wipe. But on other cars, that method isn't very effective, so that's when a brush and some foam become handy. Just another method and skill up my sleeve.
On the topic, have you used brushes for tire dressing too? I've been using them almost exclusively for about 4 years now. It keeps my hands clean, and seems to provide a more consistent finish, almost negating the need for a knock down wipe later on. On those heavily patterned SUV/truck tires, brushes get into all of the grooves much better.
