Choosing a green car wash

Washing a car in the driveway uses a lot of water and sends polluted runoff into rivers and streams. A car wash is a better choice, and a green car wash is better still.

The only real exception is a waterless car wash product, which lets you clean your car at home without wasting water or polluting.

At home, the dirty water flows into the storm drains. It usually carries petrol, oil and other pollutants. At a car wash, the waste water goes to the sewer and is treated before it is released. A home wash also uses at least twice as much water as an automatic car wash.

Some areas now have green car washes. They save water and energy, and often clean with natural, biodegradable products.

If you still prefer to wash your car yourself, try a waterless car wash: the car is cleaned by buffing, with no water at all. Choose a product made from natural, organic ingredients rather than harsh chemicals.