What is the best way to wash my car?

Wash your car at a commercial car wash or on your lawn to prevent detergent-rich water from getting into storm drain systems.

PROBLEM:

Washing your car at home on your paved driveway sends detergent-rich water directly into storm drain systems. This water contains high amounts of nutrients, metals, and hydrocarbons all of which pollute our rivers, lakes and streams. In addition, oil, grease, copper worn from brake linings, zinc from tires, and toxics from spilled fluids make their way into storm drains and do not get treated before reaching nearby waterbodies. In addition to polluting water, this stresses aquatic ecosystems and causes fish to become contaminated and die.

SOLUTION:

Use a commercial car wash to prevent oil and grease, and other toxics from washing into our storm drains. Commercial car wash facilities often recycle their water or are required to treat their wash water discharge prior to release to the sanitary sewer system. If you are unable to use a commercial car wash, wash your vehicle on the lawn, which can absorb unwanted runoff.