Eco Friendly Car Washing Tips

Did you know that each time you wash your car, an average of 80-140 gallons of water are used?  Surprising, isn’t it?

“Interestingly enough, few people realize that washing cars in our driveways is one of the most environmentally un-friendly actions we can take.  Why?  Well, unlike household waste water that enters sewers or septic systems and undergoes treatment before it is discharged into the environment, when you wash your car in the driveway or street, contaminants such as grease, brake dust, and the detergent itself flows into storm sewers, which discharges directly into our waterways.” – EarthTalk

courtesy stock.xchng, LotusHead

Contrary to popular belief, commercial car washes, are required to drain their water into sanitary sewers (which direct sewage to treatment facilities) or to filter and reuse it on-site.

Fortunately, awareness of water issues is on the rise with more and more efforts being taken to reduce water consumption.  With that being said, what are some tips for eco friendly car washing?

• Don’t wash your car.  Or, perhaps wash it less frequently.
• Consider switching to a waterless car wash.
• Wash on gravel, grass, or another permeable surface.
• Use a water-saving hose nozzle.  Select a nozzle with an automatic shut-off valve so that water is not continuing to flow as you wash.
• Select the right soap. Choose a biodegradable soap that is chlorine- and phosphate-free. Phosphates encourage algae bloom when they enter water and reduce oxygen levels for other aquatic species.
• Opt for reusable towels.  Swap paper towels for re-usable microfiber towels.

Managing the water leaving your home is just as important as managing the water that comes into it. Eco friendly car washing is one way to live green that helps preserve our natural resources.

Julie Urlaub

Julie Urlaub is Founder & Managing Partner of Taiga Company, a sustainability consulting firm located in Houston, Texas dedicated to accelerating the integration of sustainability concepts in business. Today, Julie speaks, writes, and advises clients on a variety of issues related to the intersection between environmental stewardship, and sustainable business practices. Her writing has been featured in SocialYell’s Corporate Advice, the GreenEcomonyPost, the Business Exchange and, the ThinkGreenAlliance. Connect with Taiga Company on Facebook and Twitter. Also Find Julie on LinkedIn.