Life is busy. Between work, family, and errands, who has time to hand-wash their car? Automatic carwashes offer a convenient and affordable solution, but which type is right for you?
A Brief History of Car Washes
From the early days of buckets and sponges to the automated wonders of today, carwashes have evolved significantly. The first fully automated carwash emerged in Seattle in the 1950s, paving the way for the industry’s growth. Today, we have two main types of automated carwashes: soft-touch and touch-free.
Soft-Touch: Gentle Cleaning
Soft-touch carwashes use gentle, closed-cell foam and soft felt cloths saturated with soapy water to clean your car. These materials glide across the surface, removing dirt and grime with computer-controlled pressure and speed.
Pros of Soft-Touch:
More Thorough Cleaning: The cloths can reach crevices and hard-to-reach areas that touch-free washes might miss.
Better Dust and Pollen Removal: Soft-touch washes are more effective at removing stubborn dust and pollen haze.
Cons of Soft-Touch:
Potential for Damage: If the cloths are too forceful, they can damage mirrors, moldings, antennas, or loose parts.
Scratches: If dirt and debris are not properly emulsified before the cloths make contact, they can be ground into the paint, causing scratches.
Maintenance: The cloths require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure proper performance and avoid damage.
Touch-Free: No Physical Contact
Touch-free carwashes utilize high-pressure water jets, guided by sensors, to clean your vehicle without any physical contact.
Pros of Touch-Free:
Damage Reduction: No physical contact means less risk of scratches, dents, or damage to sensitive car parts.
Environmentally Friendly: Precision technology minimizes water waste and reduces environmental impact.
Cons of Touch-Free:
Limited Cleaning Power: May not effectively remove tough dirt, grease, or other contaminants.
Hard-to-Reach Areas: May not reach crevices or hard-to-reach areas adequately.
Maintenance: Computerized systems need regular maintenance to ensure efficient operation and accuracy.
Which Type is Right for You?
The best type of carwash depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:
Your Car’s Condition: If your car is heavily soiled or has delicate paint, a soft-touch wash might be a safer choice.
Your Priorities: Prioritize a thorough cleaning? Choose soft-touch. Minimize the risk of damage? Opt for touch-free.
The Car Wash’s Equipment: Look for carwashes that use the latest technology and ensure their equipment is well-maintained.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both soft-touch and touch-free carwashes offer convenience and can keep your car looking its best. By understanding the pros and cons of each type, you can make an informed decision about the best way to clean your vehicle.
