Is there anything better than a rag for cleaning wheels?
 

I've been cleaning wheels for almost 20 years and every once in a while I'll try something new. I've almost completely given up on any kind of specialized cleaners. I haven't tried the Mother's ball yet because all the reviews read say they fall apart.

In my experience, nothing comes close to wiping the wheels down with a rag and LOTS of water. Even soap doesn't make much of a difference.

The only problem is it's a lot of work. I'm hesitant to waste my money and time with any products but... is there anything better?

Power-wash the shit out of em! Then a good wipe down with a microfiber!!!! This is probably the best way to do it. Yes its time consuming but you get the results you want!

I pre-soak with Sonax wheel cleaner, scrub with off-brand wheel woolies, rinse and dry with a wheel-dedicated microfiber. Easy-peasy

The real issue is I went with 20-spoke Enkei EKM3s instead of my usual 5-spoke wheels. D: Guess I'll just keep at it.

Pledge works wonders on my matte black Motegi's

I also use pledge on my Carrozerria Fordged wheels for my track bike.

Try pledge - yes the furniture stuff

I 2nd Sonax Full effect, it's the best product I've found so far.

This is good. Most people aren't into detailing enough to know about some companies such as Sonax, Adams, Chemical Guys, etc.
To the OP, there are products that will aid in making the job easier, like Sonax Full Effect. Then using the right tools, you can be close to certain that you won't damage (swirl) the surface. Some things like detail sprays help with gloss. It all comes down to how much money you are willing to dish out for quality product instead of the typical OTC product

If you Opti-coat your wheels, brake dust washes off a lot easier. I get by without any wheel cleaner product - I just foam them with the rest of the car, then clean em off with a black microfiber towel.

I clean mine with normal car microfiber mitt as the same time I wash the car. If it's too dirty I use Spray-Nine, it's very soapy and gentle...and extremely effective. Wax your wheels also.

for quick cleanups try an old MF towel and sprayway glass cleaner (foaming glass cleaner - easy to find).

I regularly wash my car through a touchless wash/dry.

Immediately afterwards, I spray the wheel rubbers with Black Magic foam spray clean/shine while I dry the car off. Directions say to wait 10-15 minutes.

I then use a slightly-used microfiber cloth to wipe off excess Black Magic foam spray. I also use it to wipe down the rims themselves. Works every time. They keep their shine (rims and rubber) for a while.

If they are super dirty, power wash those rims then get some wheel cleaner. Preferrably reputable brand like Black Magic or Meguiar's. Some of the cleaners actually have chemicals to dissolve the caked on tar and road debris while keeping the clear coat on those wheels safe. So, they work better and quicker than soap and water.