Car Washing
When you wash your car in the driveway, all the soap, scum, and oily grit runs along the curb, then into a storm drain and directly into our lakes, rivers, and streams. And that causes pollution which is unhealthy for everyone. Another problem is that most car wash soap contains phosphates, which can cause excess algae to grow. As algae decay, they use up oxygen in the water that fish and other wildlife need. Learn more here.
Best Practice:
Take your car to a commercial car wash. Most car washes reuse wash water several times before sending it to the sewer system for treatment. And they use 60 percent less water than a driveway car wash, which can use 116 gallons of water!
When you wash your car in the driveway, all the soap, scum, and oily grit runs along the curb, then into a storm drain and directly into our lakes, rivers, and streams. And that causes pollution which is unhealthy for everyone. Another problem is that most car wash soap contains phosphates, which can cause excess algae to grow. As algae decay, they use up oxygen in the water that fish and other wildlife need. Learn more here.
Best Practice:
Take your car to a commercial car wash. Most car washes reuse wash water several times before sending it to the sewer system for treatment. And they use 60 percent less water than a driveway car wash, which can use 116 gallons of water!
Deck, patio and house washing
Use phosphate-free biodegradable house and deck wash. Do not use TSP (trisodium phosphate).
Boat Cleaning
Use phosphate-free boat cleaners; do not use products containing phosphoric acid, trisodium phosphate, or other phosphates. Examples of products to consider include Star Brite Boat Wash and Slimy Grimy.