Hand Washing Your Car Versus Going to a Car Wash

Owning a car is an investment, not only in your transportation but your social status and appearance. Consequently, most people want their vehicles to look as shiny and pristine as possible. This requires regular maintenance, including comprehensive washing.

There are two methods of getting a car clean: Hand washing and automatic car washing. Neither is better nor worse in general, but your preferences will likely lean in one direction or the other. Read some of the pros and cons of a hand wash versus a car wash.

Benefits of Using a Car Wash

One of the biggest advantages to going to an automatic car is its convenience. Washing your car by hand is going to take time. In fact, many people end up spending an hour or more from start to finish. However, you can drive your car through a car wash in as little as 15 minutes and get practically the same results. Plus, you don’t have to use your own water or manpower.

Will you pay for the car washing service? Of course. But it’s quite economical. Most car washes are affordably priced, mainly because the equipment is pre-programmed. Human power isn’t necessary, as the tools and technologies work on their own. Basically, you’re getting the benefit of a high-volume service with a lot of experience and capability.

Another benefit to taking your car to a car wash is that you don’t have to worry about the weather. Car washes operate 12 months out of the year. Who wants to hand wash a car when it’s 32 degrees outside and blustery? But the car wash’s automated machinery is never affected by tempestuous storms or Mother Nature’s fury.

Finally, a car wash gives you the same results every time. There’s no room for human error when you’re talking about scrubbers and other machinery. You get a gleaming vehicle, and you can be on your way.

Benefits of Choosing to Wash Your Car by Hand

 People who choose to wash their cars by hand rather than going to an automated car wash usually find the process very relaxing. They may have expensive or antique cars that they want to “baby” themselves. In this case, they enjoy going over every inch of the vehicle and thoroughly scrubbing, rubbing and waxing. The one caveat is that they should always be careful not to scratch the vehicle’s surface. Paint coatings are notoriously vulnerable to the dirt and grime that collect on any hand washing towel or cloth.

Another benefit of hand washing is that it allows you to put some elbow grease into certain places on the car. Perhaps one side is simply filthier than the other. An automatic car wash won’t make the distinction and will not spend extra time. But you, as the hand washer, can. Plus, you can get under the vehicle in hard-to-reach places.

Which Is Best for You?

At the end of the day, only you can determine if you would rather have the speed and convenience of an automated car wash or the fine-detailing of a hand car wash. You may want to experiment with both, or regularly take your vehicle to a car wash and only occasionally spruce it up with extra hand washing when needed. That way, you can get the best of all worlds.