I use a sponge and a washmit now and it works well. They were both bought new for the car and are still like new. My parents always used a sponge with care and there cars are perfect.
15+ y/o Lotus Esprit Turbo in red is still perfect using this method and proper wax technique.
i am still going to clay it over summer to remove all bonded contaminents.
Thanks for everyones posts
Good links posted