Time is running out for those washing their cars at home! As the cold weather settles in, washing your vehicle outside becomes more of a hindrance than a pastime. For those of you that prefer to do so for the time being, here are some best practices to keep in mind:

• Wash your car on gravel or grass. That way, any runoff can be naturally filtered before running into the groundwater.
• Use a bucket and sponge to wash your car. This will result in less water use. When emptying your bucket, use a toilet or utility sink rather than dumping it in the street drain.
• Use a biodegradable, phosphate-free car soap.

Drainage is always the main concern with washing your car at home. Wastewater goes directly into the groundwater system and contaminates it with any soap or chemicals that you’re working with. Even with the most environmentally friendly and biodegradable soap, you can expect an impact. There is especially cause for concern for those with groundwater wells within approximately 1000 yd.

Pro-Wash uses Simoniz ® Green Scene lubricating soap in our tunnel car wash. Green Scene is listed on the US Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice list for Car Care products. Paired with proper drainage, Green Scene is one of the best options out there for our environment. Green Scene is also a leader in quality assurance, providing superior cleaning power with an emphasis on environmental responsibility.

As humans, we must take care of our habitat. That means being responsible when it comes to the use and disposal of chemicals and other waste products. When we use any sort of chemical outside, such as pesticide, fertilizer, or car soap, it’s important to keep in mind the impact of that chemical on the environment. Being conscious doesn’t end with what we choose to use. It continues with how we use to dispose of it as well.