You might be surprised to learn that going to a car wash can be significantly more eco-friendly than washing your car at home. It is estimated a home wash uses 80-140 gallons of water while a car wash facility typically uses about 45 gallons of water per wash. In addition to the dirt on your car you will be sending oil, gasoline and exhaust residue down the storm drain. Fortunately there are now many good quality touchless car washes available. Here is what to look for:
- Recycled water (many car washes now recycle their water and most advertise this fact, if it does not say so, ask.) In case you are wondering, the recycled water is used for pre-wetting the car and mixing with detergents. The final rinse cycle uses fresh water.
- Use eco-friendly detergents.
- Hand dry and wash car windows with towels.
All car wash facilities in our state are required to dispose of water released to the sewer system according to the regulations of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. For more specific information on cleaning your car see:
