If you spent your weekends in the driveway dragging the garden hose around the car, you probably have a hard time with the words ‘waterless car wash.’ It’s just not possible to get a car clean without using water, is it? The answer, of course, is “yes, but…” There’s always a but, and we’ll get to that. However, let’s explain what waterless car wash is first.
In the early 2000s, the first waterless car wash product was developed to address water restrictions in many areas. Some of the most desirable addresses in the country, including many coastal areas, face regular water usage restrictions. Think both southern and northern California, but also Arizona, Texas, Nevada and other places that face frequent draughts, increasing populations, and limited water supplies in general.
The average home car wash can use anywhere from about 40 to a couple hundred gallons of municipal water. Most of that water runs down the storm sewer, not quickly returning to the local water table if at all. Commercial car washes use significantly more water per wash, although roughly 80% of that water is often recycled on-site. Simply put, washing cars consumes a lot of water, and not everyone has the luxury of an endless supply. And waterless car wash cleaners allow everyone to enjoy a clean car without dragging out the hose.
How they work
Waterless wash products are designed to clean a vehicle’s paint without the need for rinsing with water. Typically they’re offered either in spray form or as a concentrate that you apply directly to the surface of the car. They contain special lubricating agents that help to encapsulate dirt, dust, and grime on the surface of the vehicle. These lubricants help to loosen the dirt so that it can be safely wiped away without scratching the paint.
Products called surfactants or emulsifiers help break down and lift dirt particles away from the surface of the paint. These work to surround and suspend dirt particles, preventing them from scratching the paint as they are wiped away.
Some waterless car wash products also contain polishes or other protective ingredients that leave behind a glossy shine and help protect the paint from future damage. These additives can help to enhance the appearance of the finish and provide a layer of protection against environmental contaminants.
There is also a small percentage of water content in them as well, despite the name. However, this is often less than 5%. Instead of water, waterless car wash products primarily consist of cleaning agents, lubricants, surfactants, polymers, and other active ingredients that help to lift dirt, encapsulate it, and facilitate its removal without the need for rinsing with water. These ingredients are typically suspended in a solvent or carrier fluid, which can evaporate quickly, leaving behind a clean and shiny surface.
How to use them
Using waterless car wash is a simple affair, especially if you’re used to quick-detailing your car. To use a waterless car wash product, you typically spray it directly onto a small section of the car’s surface. Then use a clean, deep microfiber towel to gently wipe away the dirt and grime.
The microfiber towel helps to trap and lift dirt particles away from the surface without scratching the paint. Start at the top of the vehicle where it is likely the cleanest and work your way down. When your wipe towel becomes visibly loaded with debris, switch to a clean towel. A lighter, less plush microfiber towel will help dry off any remaining dampness and polish out the finish.
But…
Of course, waterless car wash has its limitations. If you’re cleaning up your 4×4 after a day of mudding in the woods, you’ll still need a good rinse first. Likewise for any other major oils, greases, or severe contaminants. Waterless car wash products struggle to remove heavy debris effectively and are best suited for light dirt and dust removal.
The conditions of its application will affect the outcome as well. You should avoid using waterless car was on hot surfaces or under direct sunlight, for instance. This can cause the solution to dry too quickly, making it difficult to wipe away dirt and increasing the risk of streaking and potential damage to the paint.
Finally, not all waterless car wash solutions may be suitable for all surfaces, particularly delicate or sensitive materials. It’s essential to check the product’s compatibility with your vehicle’s paint and other materials before use.
In the end, waterless car wash can be a quick, tidy way to keep your vehicle cleaned up between major washings and waxings. They provide a more thorough cleaning when a quick detailer product isn’t quite enough. And for those who don’t have the option of pulling out the hose, they provide a car wash in a bottle. All without concern for being hassled by the neighbors.
I think I’ll give waterless carwash a shot.
Not all waterless car wash are created equal. One produced by Aerocosmetics was developed in the ’80’s for the airline industry works well even with dirt not just dust (don’t recommend it for mud). No I don’t work for them, but have been using their product since 1993. It is truly a wash and wax. My classic cars haven’t been water washed or paste waxed in decades. I have tried the new ones developed in the 2000’s and they just don’t compare. I can use it in direct sunlight and out door temps up to 80 with no problem. And there is never any residue. Works well on metal plastics and glass. Car takes about 20 minutes and my truck about 45. It functions well as a detailer. JMHO