It won't destroy the wheels after a few uses but I'm guessing it would be bad in the long run. Simple Green would probably be safer but some people think even that is to harsh. I myself just use the car wash shampoo left over after I wash it but I'm thinking of getting a dedicated wheel cleaner to make it easier. By the way, the protective layer on the wheels (and the body paint) is called the clear-coat.

 

If you are going wipe down your wheels between washings, use a detailing spray - and use it liberally. It lubricates the surface so you don't grind the grit into the clear coat (as bad). Wipe very lightly with a very absorbant soft 100% cotton towel or micro fiber towel.

If they are really dirty, fill a bucket with your car wash and just wash them...........

 

Any detailing sprays in particular that you'd recommend?

 

I'm confident that prolonged use of Windex would not be good for the rubber. As for the wheel it's tough to say because many wheel cleaners are acidic as is. Many wheels have such strong coatings on them that they are less likely to be harmed. However some custom and aftermarket wheels have thin coatings or none and can be more affected by these strong cleaners. In summary I wouldn't recommend using it but I'm not sure it will definitely harm the surface.

For quick and easy cleanings I think the P21S Metal Polishing Soap works fantastic. If my wheels are relatively clean, I totally clean and shine them in 5 minutes tops (varies based on wheel design). Wet the supplied applicator and then wipe it across the soap and you'll have a rich lather of metal polishing soap. It quickly cleans and shines the wheels and even leaves a very light layer of protection. You can also use a quick detailer like the Poorboy's World Spray and Wipe for quick cleanings. These do work on light build ups, but they don't have much cutting power or polishing power. Both methods can work, just depends on your particular situation.

Greg @ Detailed Image

 

put a sealant on your wheels, then just a simple wipe down will take care of contaminants.

 

You can't even use windex on tinted windows. I wouldn't use it anywhere on the car. It's not even a very good glass cleaner.