Chamois is not as good as a 100% cotton bath towel. The first reason is if there is any dirt still left on the car after washing and prior to claying. All you're doing is rubbing that dirt trapped between the chamois and paint, as you pull the chamois across the surface of the paint.

The second reason is heat is generated as you drag the chamois across the surface of your paint.

With a 100% cotton bath towel, any dirt that is still left on your paint after washing, and before claying is picked up between the fibers of the towel, similiar to a 100% terry towel. Why do you think the Terry towel is rough, it is made to remove, without dragging the dirt across the surface of the paint. The 100% cotton bath towel is also a great water absorbant.

With over 6 years detailing experience, and over $400 invested in detailing products, I know what works and what is better. I do agree that chamois is made to dry, but I'm not scratching my paint surface when dragging a chamois across the surface of my paint.

The less direct contact you have with the surface of the paint prior to claying is the key to less swirl marks and scratches.