December 10, 2025, 10:09 am | Read time: 2 minutes
A cordless screwdriver is a versatile tool–and it’s not just for screwing or drilling. With a small attachment, available inexpensively at hardware stores, it can also be used for polishing. myHOMEBOOK editorial director Felix Mildner explains on “Easy DIY” how it works.
If you want to bring surfaces to a high gloss quickly and without much effort, you don’t necessarily need a professional polishing machine. For many applications, a regular cordless screwdriver combined with a suitable polishing attachment, which is simply clamped into the chuck, is sufficient. Whether it’s a car, metal, plastic, or wood–with the right technique, you can achieve impressive results.
The Right Polishing Attachment
For polishing with a cordless screwdriver, special polishing pads or sponge attachments are used. These usually have a short stem that is directly clamped into the chuck. There are different types of attachments:
- Soft foam pads for wax and finish
- Harder pads for polishes with abrasive components
- Sheepskin or microfiber pads for particularly shiny results
The pads are often attached to the attachment with Velcro. Important: The diameter of the pad should match the surface. Too large attachments make control difficult, while too small ones prolong the work. Before actual polishing, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned.
Related: How to Use a Cordless Screwdriver Correctly
Polishing with a Cordless Screwdriver–Simple Guide
Once the attachment is clamped into the chuck of the cordless screwdriver, you can start polishing. Here’s how to proceed step by step:
- Mount the polishing attachment: Insert the polishing attachment into the center of the chuck and tighten it. It should be absolutely secure.
- Apply polish: Apply some polish directly to the pad or the surface.
- Start slowly: Begin at a low speed. Hold the cordless screwdriver straight to the surface and move it in even strokes. Light to medium pressure is sufficient.
- Fine polishing: If necessary, change the pad (to a softer material, for example) and increase the speed slightly to make the surface shine.
- Remove residues: Polish with a clean microfiber cloth–and you’re done!