Washing your car can use large volumes of water. Waste water runoff is often full of detergents and other substances that can pollute waterways. Here are some ways to keep your car clean and reduce water wastage.
Running a hose to wash your car could use up to 400 litres of clean drinking water. Use a bucket and sponge instead — you could save at least 300 litres that way! You could also consider washing the car less often to save water, or using water from an outdoor rainwater tank.
The waste water from washing your car can contain detergents, degreasers, oil, sediments and other residue. Washing your car on the grass will minimise runoff and contain these pollutants in the grass before they reach the stormwater system. Try to use detergents sparingly, or use non-toxic environmentally-friendly alternatives that won’t harm aquatic life.
Commercial car wash companies usually treat their waste water before disposing of it. Many of the newer companies even recycle and reuse water. Check with your car wash company to see what their environmental policy is.
