To Beat Summer Heat, Wash Your Car
12/20/08
Vacation weather may be upon us, but we still have chores to get done. With work, mowing the lawn and carting our kids to swimming lessons, it may seem like the list of tasks is endless. It is especially difficult to make ends meet in regards to money, now that the price of electricity has gone up and it is far more costly to run our air conditioners and fill our swimming pools. In light of all this, there are ways to cut down on spending and one little thing that can help stretch your money is washing your own vehicle.
If you would like to wash your car, you need to make sure you have all of the car wash supplies that you need. A source of clean running water is the first thing you will need to wash your car. If you have a backyard hose with a sprayer, it should work just fine. Be sure to park your car as near to the hose as possible so you can be sure it will reach all the way around your car.
You will need a bucket of some sort, preferably one that will hold two gallons or so. Soap is the next thing you will need, which is probably the most important part of your car wash. Be sure that you purchase specially formulated car wash soap rather than using household detergent, because it could be harsh on the vehicle finish.
In order to get the soapy water from the bucket onto your car, you will need a good sponge. Some people prefer to use natural sponges, while others like a synthetic sponge. Both are suitable, and can be purchased at most grocery stores. I have seen recommendations for two separate sponges to be used, one for the wheels and one for the chassis, if you would like.
It is a good idea to at least dry off the outside windows, if not the entire car, after rinsing. Using a household glass cleaner with paper towels to wipe down the inside of the windshield and windows is ideal. Protective rubber spray to keep your tires from cracking can be a good investment. Tire spray will keep your rubber from cracking and weakening in the heat.
Waxing your car can make it look even more shiny after washing. Car wax can be purchased along with other car wash supplies in most retail stores. Waxing can take a while, but the results are beautiful. Wax not only protects your paint job, but it also enhances the color and sheen of your car to make it stand out. There are so many fun car wash supplies out there for a do it yourself job. Washing your own car can be a surprisingly fun way to save money.