Will a waterless car wash work on dirty vehicles?

**hademade** · 10-05-2011, 07:22 PM

Hi, i have asked an similar question in the car detailing forum of this site. I am new to this site, and i thought my question would be more suited here. But i was wandering if a waterless car wash can work on really dirty cars. I heard it may leave scratches or swirls in your car. Also, is there any technique or equipment that I could use if i start a waterless car wash business. I wouldn`t want to turn down a car because it is too dirty. I am interested in starting one soon, and it would be helpful if anyone could recommend any products to use.

**Nth Degree** · 10-05-2011, 07:55 PM

There are risks involved with waterless washes. I have seen some that do a good job, but there are limitations. If it is the only method you are using you will eventually have to turn away vehicles because the waterless technology just can`t handle it. A rinseless wash like Optimum No-Rinse is probably a better choice as it is more versatile. But even that has some limitations.

If you are not familiar with any of the waterless products then you really should get a bit of each and give try them out and compare. I have seen the Dri Wash N Guard do a great job of cleaning, but not sure how it rates against others for safety and ability. (Worked great on glass.)

I`m not sure how much positive response you will get here. Most here are interested in the best results, which will not usually be found in a waterless.

Why the focus on the waterless? Cost? Restrictions? Do your homework and read threads on the topic and you will get a lot of information.

**hademade** · 10-05-2011, 09:07 PM

Originally Posted by Nth Degree

There are risks involved with waterless washes. I have seen some that do a good job, but there are limitations. If it is the only method you are using you will eventually have to turn away vehicles because the waterless technology just can`t handle it. A rinseless wash like Optimum No-Rinse is probably a better choice as it is more versatile. But even that has some limitations.

If you are not familiar with any of the waterless products then you really should get a bit of each and give try them out and compare. I have seen the Dri Wash N Guard do a great job of cleaning, but not sure how it rates against others for safety and ability. (Worked great on glass.)

I`m not sure how much positive response you will get here. Most here are interested in the best results, which will not usually be found in a waterless.

Why the focus on the waterless? Cost? Restrictions? Do your homework and read threads on the topic and you will get a lot of information.

I figure a waterless carwash would be good to do in the winter and it helps saves water. Maybe I will have a waterless car wash as an option to those who want it.

**lostdaytomorrow** · 10-24-2011, 02:51 PM

That`s a great idea. Options are good.

**Integra81** · 11-09-2011, 06:00 PM

Originally Posted by hademade

Hi, i have asked an similar question in the car detailing forum of this site. I am new to this site, and i thought my question would be more suited here. But i was wandering if a waterless car wash can work on really dirty cars. I heard it may leave scratches or swirls in your car. Also, is there any technique or equipment that I could use if i start a waterless car wash business. I wouldn`t want to turn down a car because it is too dirty. I am interested in starting one soon, and it would be helpful if anyone could recommend any products to use.

How dirty are we talking about here? In theory you can use a Waterless Car Wash on any vehicle. However, you will find that you go through a lot of microfiber towels in the process. I would say a quick pre-rinse on muddy, salty or sandy cars will save you a bit of time and towels.

Technique is key to a waterless car wash. Make sure that you make light strokes to gently remove contaminants from the clearcoat. There is no need to apply heavy pressure. Also I would suggest a 300 GSM microfiber towel or greater for best results.

Hope this helps get you started.

**togwt** · 11-09-2011, 06:42 PM

For really dirty surfaces

Based on the same surfactant type polymers used in Optimum (OPT) No Rinseâ„¢ Wash & Shine New Formula (ONR) it has increased cleaning ability but is safe for use on all automotive surfaces. ONR works fine for a car with light to medium road dirt while Optimum Optiâ„¢ - Clean can be used on a car with several days of built- up road salt, dirt and grime. The reason is that Optiâ„¢ - Clean contains the same polymers as ONR that encapsulate dirt but at a much higher concentration, as well as additional polymers not used in ONR.

**quilabegesine** · 12-24-2011, 02:42 AM

Should keep in mind for a Car After a Trip

1. Air Filter

2. Rubber seals deteriorate

3. Tighten nuts & bolts

4. Touch up all scratches

5. Fuel pump

**BrianBrook** · 01-23-2012, 08:39 PM

what are your guys thoughts on Croftgates Wash & Wax? It is used like ONR since it is added to water, so its not a true `waterless` but it only uses a gallon or less per car.

**EngineBuilder** · 03-22-2012, 01:12 PM

I guess a waterless car wash could do some good, but is it really all that environmentally friendly?

**Dan** · 03-22-2012, 01:41 PM

Originally Posted by BrianBrook

what are your guys thoughts on Croftgates Wash & Wax? It is used like ONR since it is added to water, so its not a true `waterless` but it only uses a gallon or less per car.

I got their sampler kit and the only product I sort of liked was their tire shine. The waterless wash/wax was wayyy too watered down for me to be comfortable with. In fact, most QDs have more lubrication.