Waterless Car Washing Brings Relief to Drought-Stricken Regions

It's early spring and water restrictions have already begun to take hold in certain parts of the United States. In both Southern Florida and California, residents are being urged to reduce their daily consumption of H2O. Looking to the US Drought Monitor, we already see nearly half of the United States with abnormally low supplies for this time of the year.

As residents of these areas begin to adjust their daily routines, a growing trend amongst driveway car washers is emerging. What is known as the "waterless car wash" has suddenly replaced the traditional bucket and hose method. The popularity of these products have already taken off overseas in countries such as Australia, South Africa, China, and England where similar water conservation measures have been put into place. Many people in the United States are still unaware of the impact a driveway car wash can have on the environment. According to the International Car Wash Association, the average wash can use between 80 - 140 gallons of water. This water is loaded with the contaminants from your car including brake dust, road oils, gasoline, and harsh soapy detergents.

The waterless car wash products accomplish three things. First, you'll greatly reduce the amount of water used. Secondly, your time savings are considerable since it is a one-step process. And lastly, you'll help keep these contaminants out of the water.

So, how are they used? A small spray bottle and two microfiber towels replace the clunky buckets, sponges, and soapy mess typically associated with a Saturday morning wash. The products work by spraying the formula onto your car, one panel at a at a time, and wiping clean with a microfiber towel. A combination of surfactants, lubricants, soaps, and polymers help to encapsulate and lift dirt safely away from the surface. Scratching? Not an issue when applied onto lightly-moderately soiled surfaces. Anything with severe mud, sand, salt should obviously be pressure washed first.

Helping to introduce these products to U.S. consumers is, Eco Touch, a small New Hampshire based business which sells a line of earth-friendly waterless car wash products. Everything sold is non-toxic, biodegradable, and petrochemical free. A waterless car wash starter kit which will yield 4 - 8 high quality washes retails for $14.99 on their website - http://www.ecotouch.net