Will a waterless car wash work on dirty vehicles?

hademade

New member
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.
 
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.
 
Nth Degree said:
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.
 
hademade said:
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.
 
For really dirty surfaces



Based on the same surfactant type polymers used in Optimum (OPT) No Rinse™ 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 Opti™ - Clean can be used on a car with several days of built- up road salt, dirt and grime. The reason is that Opti™ - 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.
 
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
 
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.
 
BrianBrook said:
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.
 
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