How are dust nibs typically removed before clearcoating?

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Keeping the surface clean before applying clearcoat is essential to avoid dust nibs showing up in the finish. Dust nibs are tiny particles that land on the surface and can telegraph through the clearcoat if not removed. The best method is to blow them off with clean, filtered compressed air to dislodge the particles, then wipe with a tack cloth to lift away any remaining dust without leaving residue. Sanding aggressively can mar the surface or push dust in; a heat gun can blister or move particles around; applying wax would leave a film that interferes with clearcoat adhesion. So the proper approach is clean air followed by tack cloth.