What should I look for in a wheel brush?

Soft, long bristles with a protected core, and a shape that reaches behind the spokes — plus the discipline never to use it on paint.

An unprotected metal core is what scratches an alloy when the bristles wear down. Look for a coated or rubberized shaft.

Barrel brushes reach the inner rim where brake dust accumulates and where most people never clean. A separate soft brush handles the face.

Keep wheel tools entirely separate from bodywork tools, and rinse them thoroughly — brake dust is metallic and abrasive.