3 Types of Car Wash Soap and What They Can Do For Your Car
Soap is just soap, right? Well, that’s not always the case, and it’s especially not the case when it comes to car wash soap.
It may seem like a good, efficient idea to use dish soap or laundry detergent to wash your car, but that’s far from the truth. Unless you are aiming to ruin your car’s paint job, never use household items to get your car wash done.
If you are looking to do some DIY car washes, it’s important that you know about the many different types of car wash soaps and what they can do for your vehicle. In this post, we’ll walk you through three of them and how to best utilize them:
1. Concentrated
Go into any auto parts store and you’ll likely see the shelf loaded with concentrated soaps for washing your car. Concentrated car soaps or shampoos are the most common type of car washing products.
Concentrated soaps are mostly used for regular maintenance washes. They can get your car nice and clean, and they are specially formulated to work with wax and/or sealant applications. There are products that promise a waxy finish, while there are also those that claim to be extra tough on debris and contaminants.
This is about as basic as you can get when it comes to a dedicated car-wash product. Keep in mind that most concentrated soaps should be diluted with water, so it’s always best to read the guidelines before using. Most notable brands include Meguiar’s and Duragloss.
2. Wash and Wax
A step up from the basic is a wax. Many car wash products leave a waxy residue that will protect the paint for a few days or even several weeks. Wash and wax soaps will not only clean your car but will provide a protective layer of wax.
Basically, wash and wax products offer the same function as concentrated ones with the extra benefit of having a layer of protective wax. Keep in mind that this is no substitute to full wax jobs since the applied protective layer will only stay there for a limited time.
However, it’s a very good supplement on top of dedicated wax jobs. This type of car wash soap is recommended for car owners who are living in hotter climates. The Chemical Guys brand has a wide range of excellent wash and wax car shampoos.
3. Waterless
Rinseless and waterless washes are your go-to car wash soap if you have no access to water or you simply want to reduce your water usage. It the best option for those who want to have an eco-friendly car wash. Waterless car wash products are also in the same price range as traditional ones, adding to their appeal.
We have tested several waterless solutions and we are happy to report that they each worked wonders. The best waterless products can provide the much-needed versatility and lubricity for a car wash. Optimum and Ultimate are good brands to consider when shopping for waterless solutions.
Time to Spruce Up Your Car
Regardless of your preference between hand car wash vs. automated car wash, knowing the type of car wash soap that you are using is crucial for the maintenance and care of your vehicle.
