Body+Soul, August 2008
Keep your car sparkling clean without using a drop of water. These three "waterless" plant-based cleaners save up to 100 gallons of H2O per typical driveway sudsing and prevent pollutants from entering streams and groundwater supplies.
No-Wet Green and Clean Waterless Wax and Wash
The biodegradable kaolin clay in this cleaner removes dirt, while the natural carnauba wax protects and shines. $32.99, nowet.com
Lucky Earth Waterless Car Wash
Free of dyes, fragrances, parabens, and phosphates, this wash uses a coconut derivative, salt, water, and degradable silicone. $16.99, luckyearth.com
Eco Touch Waterless Car Wash and Polish
This petroleum-free, nontoxic soap alternative is made with coconut and soy. $9.99, ecotouch.net
Washing at a car wash is most green process. Most car washes reclaim/recycle the water they use and the pollutants (grit) are pulled out of the water and disposed of properly. The number of gallons used at a car wash is insignificant compared to driveway washing (where water directly flows into the city drainage system and to the rivers and streams--creating pollutants. If you use the waterless products, small debris on your car can scratch your vehicle when cleaning with these products.