Water based waxing mixtures for protecting surfaces providing ionically neutral ingredients adhering to the surface while repelling environmental impurities, such as dirt. Surface precleaning need not precede the wax application because of an exchange, which takes place between the mixture and surface dirt. The mixture constitutes an emulsion of an organic phase in an aqueous phase. The aqueous phase amounts to 70 percent to 92 percent by weight, while the organic phase provides the remainder of the mixture and contains suspended waxes. The organic phase includes natural waxes, silicone compounds, nonionic emulsifiers and suspending agents. The mixture may be applied to wet or dry surfaces in shade or bright sunlight and then wiped off to leave a durable shine. The compound finds use on painted, polished, or smooth texture surfaces such as on an automobile. Surfactants and suspending agents stabilize the phase ingredients to allow suspension of the wax in the water. Softening agents both smooth and stabilize the consistency of the wax.