I only used 3 coats and I wish I would have used more. I would recommend 5 for sure. I'm going to be redipping them sometime soon and I did the same as Jester and just peeled it off the tire. As far as cleaning I just use some tire shine and hit them to make em shinny. Occasionally wipe down by hand as well. I'm planning on having my entire car dipped sometime next year as well.