how do these mobile detailers do it?

[CRUZMISL]

I mean come to your work, wash your car and wax it??? Maybe even detail the engine and interior. Where do they get the water? How about electricity? What if it's in a sunny parking lot or next to a dusty busy road? Am I missing something here or what?
Thanks,
Joe

[We're Here]

Typically a professional will carry a water tank, a generator and even an aluminum framed tent cover type thing to provide shade. I suppose the startup expenses are still reasonably modest for the sole proprietor but they're certainly a level or two higher than a tin of wax and a rag in the hip pocket sort of thing

[sonnydaze1]

cruzmisl, i do that! i'll go anywhere that i can hook up a hose and run an electrical cord. no one's ever had a problem with it. generally you don't use that much water or electricity - it's really just a trade off for the convenience. i detail the engine and interior if the customer wants it. i do both the same way you'd do it at your house. i don't have a carpet extractor though, too expensive. i do carry a popup tent for some shade in the summertime, but a dusty work area would be a problem. probably have to arrange something else.

[Intel486]

I'm just starting to do mobile detail. Currently I'm hooking up to people's water and using their power. I'm saving right now for the a water tank, a tent, and an electric pressure washer (using a gas one right now but it isn't made to pull water from a tank). I'm searching for a generator that meets my needs right now so I'll have one soon. Will be soo glad to get it so I can get rid of my huge arse extension cord.

[Josiah]

I have a 5500 watt generator, but still carry about 200ft of extension cords... one 100ft 12g, and two 50ft 14g, for when I can use customers electricity. Don't want to be short.

[Scottwax]

I wash cars with Protect All Quick and Easy Wash, so I only need about a gallon of water per car. I have a pretty good 12 volt vacuum (Campbell-Hausen), but prefer to use my big wet/dry vac. Most businesses now have electrical outlets outdoors, so I don't have to run a cord under the doors. I haven't been able to find a quiet enough generator that is also small enough to fit in my trunk. I've seen one that is suitcase size, so I may look into that.

As far as dust goes, I have my California duster with me and on windy days, I do have to dust after washing and before waxing. Just part of the business.

[NY detailer]

I do mobil detailing and detailing from my house. I all i need is a hose and power, if they dont have power i have a converter in my truck.
being mobil really does bring in the business.