ARTICLE CREDIT TO CERAMIC PRO
Did you know that one of the most searched items online is for a car wash near me? It’s true! Today’s automotive world is full of choices. Whether it’s the type of car you want and the trim level or the vast amount of car care products on the market. It’s no wonder why consumers scour the internet to help them make an educated decision about how to properly protect their investment. Car washing has come a long way. No more used buckets, dish soap, and old rags. Now there are full-service car washing services, automatic car washing facilities, self-service high-pressure washing stations, or you can do it yourself. It all depends on your budget. We’re here to walk you through all of your options and how to find the best ‘car wash near me’.
What to Look for When Choosing a Car Wash Option
First off, how often should you wash your daily driver? According to experts, you should be washing your car every two weeks in order to properly protect your paint. Now, what should you look for when choosing a car wash? Look for what auto supplies are used. When you head to any car wash, ask them if they use chemical-heavy or organic cleaning supplies. It’s always best to use a car wash with good organic or car wash specific cleaning agents because they are best for your clear coat.
Consider the wastewater management. Believe it or not, some facilities wash their cars with used water. That doesn’t sound too good does it? They are required by law to treat wastewater before reusing it, some facilities are better than others.
Check out the list of services at each car wash option. Most facilities offer a basic wash which includes washing the interior with soap, a high-pressure hose rinse, and a blow-dry. It may include a wheel cleaning (a spray on solution), and a clear coat protection (a spray wax formula). The best advice we can offer here is to just use the basic car wash services but leave the enhanced paint and vehicle protection services to the experts.
Finally, when you’re searching for a ‘car wash near me’, be sure to check the customer reviews. Consider the opinions of life-minded car owners like you! After considering all of these options, we definitely advise that you avoid those gas station car washes. Even though they might be the cheapest out there, they are not the greatest option.
What’s the Process?
The process all depends on what option you choose. You can choose to wash your car at home, a hand car wash, a drive-through car wash, a self-service car wash, or a mobile car wash. We will walk you through them all.
Option 1: At-Home Car Wash
Washing your car at home will take the most time, but it will be the most affordable and allows for the most control depending on your priorities. Start off this process by rinsing all the dirt from the outer surface of your car. Use warm water, specific car washing soap, microfiber wash mitts, big buckets, and quality microfiber towels. Wash one section of your car at a time using a two-bucket method. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid scratching your paint with the dirt near your wheels. Use microfiber towels to dry your car. This part is make or break because you want to avoid streaks, water spots, and scratches.
Pros:
- Probably the most affordable
- Can be the most convenient
Cons:
- Labor intensive
- The most time consuming
- You will need to buy quite a bit of equipment
- You will also need to proper space
Option 2: Hand Car Wash
This will unsurprisingly be the most expensive option. But, you are paying more for a reason. Assuming you pick the best ‘car wash near me’, you will most likely get the best results. You will also end up saving yourself time and energy. If you don’t mind paying more, a hand wash will yield the most desirable results.
Pros:
- High -quality, thorough results
- Adding on additional services
Cons:
- Most expensive
- Involves a lot of waiting around
- Less convenient than washing at home
Option 3: Drive-Through Car Wash
A drive-through car wash will be the quickest method and the cheapest. A lot of gas stations offer this option, so it is also very convenient. Your car is pulled through a conveyor where brushes, hoses, and air dryers clean your car. The main risk with this method is that it can be quite damaging to the paint of your car.
Pros:
- Very fast
- Affordable
- Convenient
Cons:
- Not very thorough
- Can cause considerable damage to your paint
- Difficulties with drying
Option 4: Self-Service Car Wash
Self-service car washes are similar to at-home car washes since you are doing the work. But this is a great option for those who don’t have a hose or driveway. With this option, you get the affordability and control of washing your car yourself – but you don’t have to worry about buying or storing supplies.
Pros:
- Allows you to clean your car yourself if you don’t have the supplies to do so
- Gives you the most control
Cons:
- You are paying to have a clean car, but you’re still doing the work
- Time consuming
- Not the most convenient
Option 5: Mobile Car Wash
Now, this is the most revolutionary option. This involves having a professional washer come to you and clean your car, by hand, from start to finish. You can get the convenience of an at-home wash, but also the high-quality work of a professional.
Pros:
- Meticulous attention to detail
- Extremely convenient
- Saves your time and energy
- Low risk of damage
Cons:
- Can be expensive
What’s the Difference Between a Car Wash and an Auto Detail?
A car wash mainly consists of just that, basic washing of your vehicle. Anything more such than that is considered auto detailing. Auto detailing is more time consuming because of the attention to detail and it will also cost you more. If you are looking for quality auto detailers you can find one close to your here. The Auto Spas listed in our directory are Ceramic Pro certified installers. They go through thorough training and are the best of the best when it comes to auto detailing. In addition to their skillful work, they are all drive by the same passion so you know that you are receiving the best quality care.