Car Wash Chemicals: Everything You Need For The Perfect Wash

Running a car wash business can be lucrative, but it's important to find the right car wash supplier in order to make your business successful.

There are many different suppliers out there, so it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.

Turtle Wax Pro is a great option to help supply your car wash. We offer the highest quality chemistry on the market, have decades of experience of helping wash businesses succeed, and have strong healthy relationships with our customers.

These are all key factors to look for when searching for a supplier and we believe that Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem Group can be the best supplier for you.

If you're in the car wash business, then you know that finding the right supplier is essential. Let's go over some key considerations to look for when choosing a supplier.

To Succeed in the Car Wash Business, You Have to be Unique

The car wash industry is a competitive one, so it's important to find a car wash supplier that can give you an edge over your competition. One way to do this is by choosing a supplier that offers unique products or services.

Car washes with no unique selling proposition are very common. You must find things that separate you from other washes if you want to succeed. The right supplier can offer you competitive prices, quality supplies, equipment, support, advice, site signage, marketing help and more that can give you a leg up in business.

Here's What To Avoid In A Car Wash Supplier

1. Avoid suppliers that just need to make a sale and offer no support after your launch.
2. Be wary of a supplier who can't answer questions. This generally means they won't be helpful if any issues arise in the future.
3. Look out for suppliers without local or regional service teams. Depending on your customer volume you may get stuck in a long line waiting for service or repairs.
4. You should also be careful of suppliers who don't have a good reputation. If other car wash owners haven't heard of them or have had bad experiences, it's best to avoid doing business with them.

Looking for a Reputable Supplier

It's also important to choose a supplier that is reputable, has a long track record of industry wins and wants to be a true partner. Businesses succeed when they have long-term relationships with their suppliers. A reputable supplier will be able to more effectively provide you with the resources and support you need to grow your business.

Watch Testimonials

You can learn a lot about a supplier by reading online reviews, case studies and testimonials from other car wash business owners. Make sure to read both positive and negative reviews in order to get a well-rounded view of the supplier.

You should also take the time to speak with other wash owners who have used the supplier. They will be able to provide you with first-hand information about their customer experience.

"When I built our first car wash in 1991 I was looking for a chemical company that could provide knowledge, dependability, service, value and high quality safe products. The Turtle Wax Pro team and Transchem delivered and for over 30 years has been our chemical suppler of choice, they've never let us down. When it comes to a soap provider you can count on day in and day out I couldn't think of a better company than Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem." - Mike Black, Founder/Owner at Valet Car Washes 

Consider the Chemistry

The chemicals dictate the final wash product you can offer your customers. The goal of achieving the perfect wash can only be met with high quality chemistry that all works together.

When choosing a car wash supplier, you should consider the quality of the products that they offer. The last thing you want is your customers' cars to be damaged by poor car wash chemicals.

Which Type of Products Does Your Wash Want to Offer?

Every car wash has staple products like presoaks and detergents but car washes can really differentiate themselves by offering unique items like fragrances, ceramics, and tire dressings.

Think about which products in particular you want to offer your customer, that decision may direct you to a particular company that carries specific supplies.

There are so many products to choose from, we recommend getting in contact with a couple of car wash chemical manufacturers before deciding on any products.

Less Is More!

Some companies can have hundreds of SKUs but you'll need to narrow your decision down to between 5 and 15 core chemicals for your wash.

The Turtle Wax Pro lineup offers more than 40 highly diverse chemicals alongside other individual chemical solutions.

This allows us to stay competitive with other industry prices, stock more product, ship faster, provide more in-depth service and streamline our operation to help you clean more cars.

Consider the Car Wash Equipment

The car wash industry is always changing and car wash equipment is becoming more advanced. You'll want to make sure that the supplier you choose offers the latest and greatest in car wash equipment.

This could include pressure washers, car wash pumps or central vacuum systems for detailing services. This will ensure that your customers are getting the best possible car wash experience.

Having to buy new equipment is expensive and time consuming so it's important to get it right the first time.

Maintenance Matters

Maintenance solutions are also important to consider when choosing a supplier. Make sure your supplier has a good relationship with one or more local distributors in your area to service and repair your equipment on a regular basis.

Consider the Extras

It's also important to find a supplier who offers training on how to use the car wash equipment. This will ensure that your team is able to properly operate the car wash equipment and provide a great experience for your customers.

Turtle Wax Pro offers in-depth training on chemistry, installation, service, business operations and more to our partners (the distributors and operators we work with). This should create reliability for you and your employees when it comes to any problems that could arise.

What about...

Perhaps you want to own a truck wash as well? A truck wash will need different equipment than a standard car wash. How easy is it to receive repair parts? How detailed are the product manuals? How quick is installation?

These are all factors you will want to consider when evaluating the right supplier. It can be challenging to know what is the right equipment and we recommend contacting a supplier (like Turtle Wax Pro) before you decide on anything.

Consider your Customer

Last but not least, you should consider your ideal customer experience when choosing a supplier. What type of experience do you want to offer your customers?

Do you want to offer a luxury wash experience or a more basic wash experience? This will help you determine which car wash supplies, equipment and add-ons you'll need to purchase.

What Does a Premium Industry Supplier Offer Their Car Washes?

1. A wide range of chemistry, services, systems and car wash equipment.
2. Advice on how to best position your wash for success. This involves marketing, best use of the products, and a full dedicated hands-on training session with ongoing learning material.
3. Help you find ways on how to reduce costs and optimize your car wash to save time and produce more sales for your site.
4. Lastly, the relationship they maintain with their partners. A top supplier will offer car washes technical support, answer any questions they have, and keep an open dialogue to continuously improve the products and services they offer.

All of these aspects are what separates the industry leaders from the rest.

Choosing Turtle Wax Pro as Your Supplier

Turtle Wax Pro is one of the most trusted car care brands in the world with expertise to drive more sales and gain market share around the world.

We strive to be the best supplier possible to all of our partners, operators and distributors. We do this by offering the best chemistry on the market, high quality car wash equipment, and knowledge from our dedicated sales and service teams.

We Know It's Hard

Picking the right supplier can be a tough process but will prove to be very rewarding if done correctly. We hope that we cleared up some questions you had and have given you a bit of direction on how to choose a high quality partner.

If you have any questions about your car wash regarding anything from products to strategy, don't hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to discuss how you can find even more success within the car wash industry.

One of the core values of Turtle Wax Pro is environmental protection. We not only develop products that clean, protect and beautify your cars, but we also work to find ways to reduce our environmental impact.

Our eco friendly car wash chemicals are just one example. Our products are just as effective as products containing hydrofluoric acid, phosphates and other harsh chemicals, but without the environmental damage.

We are also constantly working on ways to reduce our water usage. We do this by using hyper concentrated chemistry, which allows us to do more with less. This means that we ship less water and reduce our plastic packaging waste.

We believe that it is our responsibility to protect the environment, and we are always looking for ways to reduce our impact. We hope that you'll join us in this effort!

In this article, we will share some tips on how you can make your car wash more eco friendly.

What Does Being Eco-Friendly Mean?

When we talk about being eco-friendly or sustainable, we mean reducing our impact on the planet. This can be done in a number of ways, but one way is to use products that are less harmful to the environment.

Environmentally friendly car wash soap is made from sustainable materials and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute surrounding ecosystems or harm wildlife.

Using a sustainable detergent is a great way to become more green while still keeping a vehicle clean of dirt and grime.

The Benefits of Using an Eco-Friendly Car Wash Soap

There are many benefits to using biodegradable cleaning products.

It’s better for the planet

As we mentioned before, sustainable products are made from sustainable materials (ex: phosphate free) and are often biodegradable. This means that they won’t pollute the environment or harm wildlife over the long term.

It’s gentle on vehicles

'Green' detergents are gentle on paint, won’t strip away wax or polish and will still clean cars. This is important because a good paint job is key to making a car look its best.

It’s affordable

Biodegradable detergents are just as affordable as regular detergents. This is because they are often made from sustainable materials that can be less expensive to produce.

Turtle Wax Pro works extremely hard to produce chemistry that performs competitively when using a cost-per-car analysis.

It protects your equipment

Many chemical companies produce cleaning products containing hydrofluoric acid. This is a corrosive chemical that can damage your equipment and cost over $100,000 through early replacement.

Turtle Wax Pro products don’t contain any hydrofluoric acid or other harmful chemicals, so they won’t damage your equipment or lower its life span. HF is also just one of many dangerous chemicals that can lead to long term severe health problems for you or your employees. It can also cause acute issues including skin burns, eye irritation and inhalation of toxic fumes.

The Importance of Being Eco Conscious As a Commercial Car Wash Owner

As a business, it’s important to be eco-conscious for many reasons.

• Not only is it the right thing to do for your local ecosystem, but it can also save you money in the long run. You can go beyond biodegradable products by using water reclaim systems or hyper concentrated chemistry to save on water costs.
• Additionally, being eco-conscious can be used as a great marketing tool for commercial car washes. Customers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are more likely to do business with a company that shares their values.

Choosing an Environmentally Conscious Brand like Turtle Wax Pro

Making a choice on car wash chemistry is the most important decision in producing clean cars.

The things to consider are quality of products, quality of service, and working with a company that fits your needs.

Turtle Wax Pro is a leader in the development of environmentally friendly car wash products. Leadership in environmental conservation and stewardship is fundamental to our ongoing success. We endeavour to innovate products that respect our physical environment and adhere to the highest standards in our industry.

We work with many companies who have an environmental focus and help them establish a much stronger eco presence.

If your business has any concerns about their considerable environmental impact, we would be happy to discuss aspects on how you can improve your strategy.

How to Make your Car Wash Eco Friendly?

There are many easy ways to make your commercial car wash more eco-friendly.

Using eco-friendly products

As we’ve already discussed, using eco-friendly car wash chemicals is a great way to be more eco-conscious. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also just as effective as regular car wash soap.

Installing energy-efficient equipment

Another great way to be more eco-conscious is to install energy-efficient equipment in your car wash. This can include things like LED lighting, high-efficiency pumps and solar panels.

Recycle materials

Using recycled materials is a great way to reduce waste and cut costs. Some examples of recycled materials that can be used in a car wash are recycled soap dispensers, signage and hoses.

Recycling water is a great idea for your business to reuse its biggest resource, cut costs, and perhaps even save the local sewer systems. Water reclaim systems recycle the water used in the car wash by filtering out dirt, grime and chemicals so it can be reused again.

Be careful when selecting a system as some types can lead to a not-so-great smell when water is reused.

Save water from running off into storm drains

Water is one of the most important aspects within a car wash. Many car washes waste a large amount of water each day.

It is very important for a car wash to have a system in place to not violate various storm sewer laws and contribute to water wastage. Contaminating storm drains with soapy water is a big problem as it can find its way to local waterways and harm wildlife or aquatic life.

The best way to accomplish this is to have a water reclaim system that collects the water run-off and recycles it back into the car wash. This will save a large amount of water and money over time. This is true for all car wash types, from self serve to tunnel washes.

Washing Wisely for the Home Car Washer

There are many ways the home car washer can practice sustainable behaviour as well. By following a few tips, you can minimize your environmental impact and save money at the same time.

Limit your water usage

One of the easiest ways to be more environmentally conscious when washing your car is to use less water.

You can do this by using a bucket instead of a hose or by using a waterless car wash product.

Waterless car wash products are good for small jobs and a great way to conserve water when washing your car. They work by using a special cleaning solution that is sprayed onto the car surfaces and then wiped off with a cloth. This solution is designed to remove dirt, grime, road film, brake dust and other debris from the surface of the entire car.

While not truly a 'waterless wash' these products will use less water than a traditional soap or detergent and still make the car clean.

Use biodegradable products, avoid dish soap and other household cleaners

Using biodegradable soap is a great way to be more sustainable when washing your car in the driveway.

As a helpful additional tip, do not use liquid dishwashing detergent to wash your entire car.

The temptation for many to fill a bucket with water and add a squirt of dishwashing liquid to create lots of suds is strong, but dish washing liquid is too strong and formulated for an entirely different purpose. It is not the right choice to wash your vehicle.

Other products like a spray bottle of Simple Green or other all-purpose cleaners are also not a great choice as they aren't formulated to cut through road film, large dirt or other tough stains. Simple Green does make a car wash specific product, always look for a product that is made specifically for cars.

Try to control where dirty water flows

After washing your vehicle. Do your best to contain the water to your own driveway or lawn and allow it to seep into the ground, rather than flowing straight towards the storm drain.

Toxic wastewater can enter the water system and cause problems, both legal and environmental.

Lastly, visit a commercial car wash

If you are looking for the most sustainable way to wash your car, visit a commercial car wash. At a professional facility, water is filtered and reused multiple times before being released into the sewer system.

While there are many sustainable car wash practices, these are just a few tips to get you started. By making even a small change, you can have a big impact on the environment. So when it comes to choosing your car wash chemistry and equipment, it's time to make the greenest choice. It’s good for business and good for the planet.

Cleaning vehicles is the best way to maintain them and keep them looking like new. The best car wash soaps will remove dirt, grime, and other buildup without damaging the paint or clear coat.

Turtle Wax Pro has been a providing high quality chemistry for over 75 years. Our products achieve better results than the rest on the market while being formulated without any phosphates, hydrofluoric acid or ammonium bifluoride.

Turtle Wax Pro is just one option and many people will have their own opinion on the the top rated car wash soap. There is a never-ending amount of choices for car care products. Hopefully this list of criteria will help you reach a decision on the best car wash soap for you.

What is Car Wash Soap?

Car wash soap (or car shampoo) is a specially formulated detergent that is designed to remove dirt, grime, and other contaminants from your vehicle's surface.

It is important to use a car wash soap that is specifically designed for washing cars because regular household detergents can actually damage your car's paint and finish.

Sidebar: What is the Difference Between Soap and Detergent?

Soap and detergent are both cleaning products, but they are made from different materials and have different purposes.

Soap is made from natural materials like vegetable oils or animal fats. It is effective at cleaning dirt and grease, and it is biodegradable.

Detergent, on the other hand, is made from synthetic materials and is designed to clean in more difficult water situations. It is also more effective at cleaning oily stains.

For the purposes of this article you may see us refer to our products colloquially (informally), as both soap and detergent, but Turtle Wax Pro products are formulated as detergents!

Why Do You Need Car Wash Soap?

Car washing may seem like a simple task but the details do matter. Using the right soap to clean vehicles is a basic but vital step in achieving great results.

Obviously, some sort of soap is necessary in order to properly clean a car. A well formulated soap will remove all of the dirt, road grime, dust, swirl marks and insect bits that have built up on a car's surface.

Additionally, car wash liquid is designed to be gentle on a vehicle's surface. It will not strip away wax or polish like some household detergents can.

Existing Contaminants Can Be Harmful To A Vehicle

Road grime, dirt and other contaminants can be very abrasive, and if not removed properly, can cause damage to your vehicle.

For example, if you live in an area with a lot of clay in the soil, that clay is fine enough that it can become embedded in your vehicle's paint and cause permanent damage.

Can you use Dish Soap to Wash your Car?

Let's just say the secret to achieving a spot free car wash is not using dish soap on vehicles.

Dish soap is not designed for vehicles, and can actually strip away the wax or protective coatings on your car. This will leave your car paint unprotected and susceptible to damage.

Dish soap is formulated to remove oil and grease from dishes, which is why it  is so effective at cutting through sealants. So while dish soap might get your car clean in the short term, it will actually cause more damage in the long run.

How to Use Car Wash Soap?

The process for a DIY car wash and a professional car wash are actually quite similar. The main difference is the amount of water and soap that is used.

Automated car washes will have machinery that will take care of the majority of steps that the DIY or self serve car washer would need to do by hand.

We recommend following the instructions listed on the product, but a general guide for the best car wash is as follows:

1. Start by rinsing your car with water to remove any loose dirt or debris.
2. Apply the car wash soap to a wet sponge or cloth and wash your car in small sections, starting from the top and working your way down.
3. Rinse the soap off your car with water (ideally a pressure washer)
4. Dry it with a clean microfiber towel (or microfiber wash mitt) to ensure a streak free finish.

Dialling in the correct wash settings in a tunnel or in bay automatic.

The Turtle Wax Pro team has over 75 years of experience formulating car care products. Our amazing service team are passionate experts that are always on hand to offer advice and support.

We've got a lot of documentation and expertise around our products and cleaning cars. That means we're able to set up any wash to run at peak performance within a short period of time!

Hyper-Concentrates

At Turtle Wax Pro our detergents are all hyper-concentrated. This means that you need less detergent to achieve the same quality results when compared to other brands.

Investing in a High Quality Car Wash Soap

It is also important to discuss how car wash soaps can differ. In short, there are three main types of car wash soap:

• Budget soaps (Most of our competitors) that will get the job done (kinda) but might not be as gentle on your cars or equipment.
• Mid-grade soaps (Transchem's Autolux Line) that strike a balance between price and quality.
• Premium soaps (Turtle Wax Pro) that cost more but offer the best possible results.

When it comes to car care, you get what you pay for. Investing in a high quality commercial car wash soap will save you money in all the ways we've previously mentioned. It also offers the best results to make your customers keep coming back for more. Keep in mind it is possible to offer an affordable car wash even with premium soaps.

Choosing a Premium Manufacturer like Turtle Wax Pro

The amount of options for car wash soaps on the market today can be overwhelming. However, the importance of choosing a high quality car wash soap can not be overstated.

Turtle Wax Pro is a car wash chemical manufacturer that produces premium car wash soaps, shampoos, detergents, waxes, ceramics, drying agents, finishing products and other surface protection products.

We've been doing it for decades.

Our products are formulated with the latest car care technology to deliver outstanding results and our team of experts are always available to answer any questions you may have.

We're passionate about what we do and we want to help you get the most out of your car wash business. We know that our success is built on your success.

How does the Soap you Choose Affect your Car Wash Business?

The car care industry is a competitive one and choosing the right products can make or break your business.

If you're using lower quality car wash soaps, shampoos, and other products it will reflect in the quality of your car wash.

Your customers will notice this and it will ultimately hurt your bottom line.

Achieving the Perfect Wash

The goal for everyone in the car wash industry is to be able to provide consumers with the perfect wash. There are numerous aspects to consistently providing that level of service and your chemistry is the backbone.

To achieve the ultimate wash, you don't just need quality products. You also need those products to work together in harmony.

Turtle Wax Pro products are never formulated on their own and often go through months or years of testing alongside our existing products. This ensures that they will play nice with each other and provide you with the results that you expect.

How to choose the right soap?

There are a few things you'll want to keep in mind when choosing the proper car wash soap for you.

Frequency of Washing

The ideal frequency for the best car wash is about once per week.

This ensures that the customer's car is getting cleaned on a regular basis and the finishing products are working properly to protect and maintain the paint.

Turtle Wax Pro products are formulated with this frequency in mind.

Without getting too heavily into the science, washing a car regularly will actually make the car easier to clean and shinier with each additional wash.*

The Environment

If being green is important to you then you'll want to look for a commercial car wash detergent that is biodegradable and gentle on the environment.

These soaps are just as effective at cleaning your car but won't have a negative impact on the planet.

Turtle Wax Pro is proud to say that all of our products are formulated with the environment in mind. The majority of our North American product lineup is Ecologo Certified. A certification that we drafted with regulators for high levels of environmental consciousness.

Water Quality

Water quality will differ based on your location. If you're using city water then it's likely that the water is already pretty hard.

This means that it has a higher concentration of minerals like calcium and magnesium. If you live in an area with softer water, then you don't have to worry about this as much.

It's important to be mindful of what water you have and if you should make any changes to it before you decide to run your car wash business.

Most car wash soaps will not be as effective when used with hard water and will fail to produce the thick foam required for total surface coverage. There are some specially formulated soaps that are designed to work with hard water, but typically we recommend installing some type of water solution instead.

These options will remove or modify minerals from the water that cause it to be hard, and will leave you with water that's ideal for a spot free wash.

Will Car Wash Soap Damage My Clear Coat or Sealant?

The short answer is: no it won't. Since soap is meant to clean, you may think any finishing product (car wax or ceramic) that was previously applied may be compromised after a wash.

What do surface protectants do for vehicles?

Waxes and sealants are designed to form a barrier between the painted surface and the elements. They often protect against UV rays, water spots, bird droppings and road film that could potentially damage a car's surface.

So, does using soap affect the car's wax or sealant?

As long as you're using a quality detergent that is designed for use with protected surfaces, you will not damage the wax or sealant. In fact, regular car washing is actually beneficial for maintaining the longevity of these products.*

But if you use the wrong kind of soap, it is possible that it could remove that protective barrier.

Specialized Car Wash Soaps

You may have a specific need that an ordinary soap cannot supply. We'll go through the common different specialized soaps. As well as explaining when you might want to use them.

Wash and Wax Car Soap

As the name implies, these soaps are designed to both clean and protect your car in one step.

Wash and wax car soaps typically contain Carnauba wax, which is a natural form of protection for your car's paint. But the wax formula can differ depending on the product.

With a wash and wax product it is generally hard to achieve a streak free finish or avoid swirl marks due to it's application process.

• These are typically offered to DIY washing car owners who regularly wash their car in their driveway and protect their car's finish all at once
• You'll also sometimes find this type of product in a low end car detailing shop

Carnauba Wax

Pure carnauba is one of the hardest, most durable forms of protection you can put on your car. It's often used in products that are designed to protect the paint on boats and other vehicles that are exposed to harsh conditions.

So, if you're looking for a soap that will both clean and protect your car's paint but also be a low commitment method to achieving that wax protection, wash and wax soaps might be the right choice.

However, the wax protection wash and wax soaps provide is not as durable or long lasting as other surface protectants. Premium carnauba wax can last up to 12 months but will likely last much less time in wax soap combination product.

Hard Water Soaps

As we mentioned before, if you live in an area with hard water, you'll need to take that into consideration when operating your car wash.

Most auto soap will not be as effective when used with hard water. Hard water affects the quality of your chemistry and could be a major factor in producing lacklustre cleaning results.

A water softener or reverse osmosis system are recommended solutions for water hardness, but there are some special car wash soaps that are designed to work with hard water.

Hard water soaps are formulated to be slightly more acidic than other car wash soaps. This helps to break down the minerals in hard water that can cause streaking and spots on the car's paint job.

• Hard water soaps are formulated for people with less options or no options for dealing with hard water in their water supply

Wheel Cleaner

Iron stains can become apparent on vehicles, especially on car wheels. While regular car wash soaps can help to remove some of the brake dust and grime that builds up on wheels, they are not always effective at removing iron stains.

A wheel cleaner is a specialized product that is designed to remove these types of stains. Wheel cleaners typically contain an acid, which helps to break down the iron molecules that cause the staining.

Most wheel cleaners are safe to use on all types of wheels, but it is always best to read the product label to be sure.

Waterless Wash (or No Rinse Wash) Soaps

A waterless car wash soap is a quick and easy way to clean your car without having to do a rinse wash at the end. As the name suggests, you don't need water (or very little) to use these soaps.

Waterless washes are perfect for people who want to clean their car but don't have access to a hose or water source. Some waterless washes also come in a foaming formula, which makes them even easier to use.

A no rinse wash product is also a good option if you purposely want to avoid using water altogether. You simply spray the soap on your car and wipe it off with a microfiber towel/wash mitt.

• These are formulated more for the home user rather than a business but can be a convenient option to some car owners.

Why Does pH Level Matter?

pH is a scale that is used to measure how acidic or basic (not the white girl kind) a solution is. It is an important aspect to consider when looking at the proper car wash soap for your business.

The scale goes from 0 to 14, with 0 being the most acidic, 14 being the most basic, and pH level of seven being neutral.

We will do a complete breakdown of how pH level affects cleaning in a future blog post but for now here is a rough breakdown:

Low pH

Low pH detergents or presoaks are effective at attacking inorganic material found on vehicle surfaces. This includes things like brake dust, road grime, salt and heavy dirt particles. A low pH car wash soap is typically considered to be in the range of 0-4.

High pH

High pH soaps are better at attacking organic material, like bugs, grease and tree sap. High pH chemicals are effective at breaking down proteins found in these organic materials. A high pH car wash soap is typically considered to be in the range of 11-14.

Neutral pH

There are also some soaps that have a neutral pH level (also known as pH balanced). A pH neutral formula can be used on all types of cars, regardless of how dirty they are.

pH balanced soaps won't be as effective at attacking either inorganic or organic materials, but they are a good option for people who want an all-purpose soap for the entire car.

Neutral pH soaps typically have a pH level of around five to eight.

Which pH level should you pick?

Picking the best car wash soap by pH level depends entirely on your wash setup, location, water quality, and what type of dirt/grime you are trying to remove.

For the ultimate wash it will be best to use both a low pH and high pH soap in your wash process. This will ensure that all types of dirt and grime are removed from the vehicle.

In most situations it's best to start with the high pH cleaners and work towards creating a low pH environment to help the finishing products adhere to the vehicle's surface.

We recommend getting in touch with a car wash chemical supplier like Turtle Wax Pro to see what kind setup is right for you.

Hyper-Concentrated Car Wash Soap

Hyper-concentrated car wash soap is the future of the car wash industry.

It involves the chemicals being in heavily concentrated form (very little water content) and the end-user (car washes) diluting the concentration to the correct ratio.

Hyper-concentrated chemistry ensures:

• Lower shipping costs as more product will take up less space
• Reduced environmental impact by using less packaging and plastic
• Easier to physically move and dispense product
• Allows business to stock up on more product as it will take up less room

This ensures every ounce of a product applied to a vehicle is cleaning efficiently with less water, while producing even better results.

We highly recommend you look at a company that uses hyper-concentration for its chemistry for all of these benefits.

The Best Car Wash Soaps

The best car wash soap is an opinionated topic. We at Turtle Wax Pro truly believe we offer the best car wash soap on the market.

• Our detergents are available in a variety of pH levels to help you overcome challenging cleaning conditions.
• High-lubricity detergents produce a rich, dense foam that gently deep-cleans for scratch free cleaning.
• We have products with multiple scent options and offer SKUs that are effective in friction, touchless and self-serve (pressure washer) car wash scenarios.

The truly amazing part of our soap options is that:

• They are all designed to work perfectly with any of our other offerings to ensure you're creating the cleanest, shiniest and driest cars possible.

To Summarize

The significance that soap holds to a car wash cannot be overstated. It is essential for keeping vehicles not only clean and shiny but also for maintaining the vehicle's finish.

The car wash formula you choose will depend on the kind of car wash you have, as well as what you want to include in your wash process.

That's right, the soap included in that car wash kit might not the right choice for you.

The process of choosing the best car wash products can be tricky but we are here to help.

Contact us today to learn more about our top car wash soaps and how to choose the right chemistry for your business.

*Finishing products like waxes and ceramics create a hydrophobic barrier on the car's finish. This protective coating helps repel water and dirt, making it harder for contaminants to reach and stick to the surface of a vehicle. This makes them continually easier to remove after each wash.

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Carnauba wax (lesser known as palm wax or brazil wax) is a natural product that comes from the leaves of the Brazilian palm tree. It is one of the best car waxes on the market and it has a variety of benefits for your vehicles.

In this article, we discuss what Carnauba wax is, how it is made, and the benefits that it provides. We will also compare it to other types of car waxes so that you can decide if carnauba is right for you!

What is a Car Wax?

Car wax is any product that is used to protect the paint or clear coat on a car. It is applied to the car's surface and then buffed in with a clean microfiber towel (if applied manually), leaving a layer of protection. Wax can also be used to shine the car's paint and make it look new.

There are two types of car wax: natural and synthetic. Natural waxes are things like beeswax and carnauba wax (palm wax). Synthetic waxes are made from emulsifications of protective synthetic polymers.

Most car waxes today are synthetic because they provide better protection and last longer than natural waxes. However, natural waxes are known to give the car's paint a deeper shine. When used in combination, these two types of waxes can provide the best protection and shine for your car.

What is Carnauba Wax?

Carnauba wax is a natural, plant-based product that is prized for its ability to create a deep shine on painted surfaces. It is made from the leaves of the Copernicia prunifera, a Brazilian palm tree. Carnauba wax is harvested by hand and then refined to create a product that can be used on cars.

How is Carnauba Wax Made?

Pure carnauba wax is made from the leaves of the Brazilian palm. The leaves are harvested and then dried in the sun. Once they are dry, the leaves are beaten to release the wax.

The wax is then filtered and refined to remove impurities. The final product is a yellow or brownish paste wax that is hard at room temperature but melts when heated. So, unlike soft wax options (traditional paste waxes), carnauba will be tough to apply in its natural form.

What Makes Carnauba Special?

Carnauba is the hardest natural wax in the world and its also incredibly heat resistant. That means it can withstand high temperatures and still provide a protective coating.

Carnauba is tough and versatile enough that it is used in industrial applications like floor wax and furniture polish. On top of that you'll even find it in things like dental floss, surfboard wax and shoe polish.

Carnauba is also unique because it’s derived from a the carnauba palm. This makes it a renewable resource, which is good for the environment.

The Different Forms of Carnauba Wax

Carnauba wax comes in a variety of forms, including paste wax, spray wax, and liquid wax. Liquid carnauba wax is the most popular form on the market today.

• Carnauba paste wax is the purest form. It is made by heating the wax and then cooling it until it becomes solid. Applying carnauba wax in paste wax form is harder but it provides a longer lasting shine.
• Spray wax is the easiest form of wax to apply. It comes in a can or bottle, you spray it on the surface of the vehicle and buff it into the car's paintwork. Spray wax is not as durable as the other forms but it’s convenient and easy to use.
• Liquid wax is the most popular option because it’s easy to apply and provides a long-lasting shine. Liquid waxes give the best of both worlds between paste's durability and spray's convenience. Liquid wax is made by combining carnauba wax with other ingredients like oils and solvents.

Other carnauba waxes are available in gel and powder form. These are less common but they can still be easier to apply than paste waxes.

The Benefits to Using Carnauba Wax on Your Vehicle

Carnauba car wax is one of the best waxes on the market. It has a variety of benefits for your vehicle, including:

• A high melting point: this means that it can withstand higher temperatures in warm climates without losing its shine.
• A deep, natural shine: carnauba provides a deep, natural shine to your vehicle.
• Protection from the elements: carnauba protects your vehicle from rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
• Protective qualities: carnauba wax protects against common environmental contaminants such as bird droppings, tree sap, and road grime.
• A long lasting finish: carnauba lasts longer than other types of natural car waxes, so you won’t have to wax your car as often.
• Ease of application: carnauba is easy to both apply and remove.
• Environmentally friendly: carnauba wax is both biodegradable and non toxic.

The benefit list is lengthy, but those are some of the major reasons why carnauba is often called the king (or queen) of car wax.

So, What’s the Downside to Using Carnauba Wax?

The biggest downside of carnauba wax is that it doesn’t last as long as some synthetic options. This means that you will need to reapply it more often in order to maintain the benefits.

However, many people find that the extra elbow grease is worth it for the superior results that carnauba waxes provide.

For great results without wearing out your shoulders just check out a car wash using a high quality carnauba product.

How Long Does Carnauba Wax Last on Vehicles?

Most carnauba waxes generally last about three to six months on a car. However, this can vary depending on the type of carnauba wax you use, the frequency of washing your car and exposure to the elements.

If you want your carnauba based wax to last longer, there are a few things you can do:

• Apply a thin layer of wax: A thin layer of wax will last longer than a thick layer.
• Wash your car regularly: Washing your car removes dirt and debris that can wear down the wax.
• Avoid exposure to the elements: If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, you may need to reapply your wax more often.

Utilizing these tips will save you time, money, and effort when it comes to maintaining the protective qualities and show car shine the carnauba brings to your vehicle.

How to Apply Carnauba Wax

Carnauba wax can be applied by hand or at a professional car wash.

We'll touch on both methods. Maybe you're a car enthusiast wanting to take care of your prized possession. Or a car wash owner looking at adding the popular Brazilian wax (no not that kind of Brazilian wax) to your service list.

Other waxes will typically have the same process of application.

If You're Applying the Wax By Hand or At Home:

• Start with a clean, dry car. Make sure you're removing any contaminants that could sit under the spray wax using a clay bar.
• It's best to apply wax in the shade as direct sunlight can cause the wax to dry too quickly and be difficult to move.
• Using a foam applicator or your hands (wearing gloves), apply a small amount of wax to one section at a time in a thin, even layer.
• Next, using a clean, dry microfiber towel or buffing machine, move the wax in a circular motion being sure to go over each section multiple times.
• Repeat this process until the entire car is complete to establish the protective layer.

If You're Applying the Wax Using a Car Wash:

• Again, it's important to start with a clean car (hence why you're at a car wash)
• At the wash, you'll pull your car onto the conveyor belt of the tunnel car wash or into the wash bay and wax will be applied near the end of the wash process, before the drying process.
• Once complete, the car will be rinsed and dried.

It is much easier to wax your car's paint job at a car wash instead of doing it yourself, which is why most people opt for this method. This also is a great reason to ensure your car wash offers wax as an option to your customers!

How Do Carnauba Waxes Compare to Other Types of Car Waxes?

Carnauba is often compared to synthetic options like polymer clear coat sealants and synthetic carnauba waxes. While these products may last longer, they don’t provide the same level of shine as pure carnauba.

Additionally, carnauba wax is a natural product that is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Synthetic alternatives are made from chemicals that may be harmful to the environment (if you're unsure of what you're buying).

All Turtle Wax Pro chemicals are carefully formulated to be biodegradable and are often reclaim system compatible.

What are Some Other Options?

Carnauba is just one of the options for protecting your car. There are a variety of other products on the market that can provide similar benefits.

Some of these options include:

• Polymer sealants or clear coat protectants
• Synthetic carnauba waxes
• Ceramic coatings
• Paint protection films

Polymer sealants and clear coat protectants are synthetic products that provide a long lasting glossy finish and added protection for your car.

Synthetic carnauba waxes are created to mimic the properties of pure carnauba wax. However, they are typically cheaper than pure carnauba and don’t provide the same level of protection or shine.

Ceramic coatings are a relatively new option on the market. They provide a long lasting, durable finish that is resistant to scratches and UV rays.

Paint protection films are clear films that are applied to the surface of your car. They protect the paint from light scratches, chips, swirl marks and UV rays. These films are one of the most expensive options on the market, but they offer the highest level of protection for your car.

The option that is right for you will depend on your budget, goals, and level of experience. However, carnauba is a top option and it is a great choice for those who are looking for lasting protection and shine for their car.

Is Carnauba Wax Better than Synthetic Wax or Paint Sealants?

Carnauba wax is still commonly seen as the best car wax on the market for the many benefits it provides while still being very environmentally friendly. But does that make it better than the synthetic varieties?

What gives a better protection?

High quality waxes like carnauba are great for protection against the elements and common contaminants, but some synthetic options can offer a superior protection to carnauba. Synthetic waxes can be formulated with chemicals that bond with the vehicle's paint or clear coat and thus, may do a better job at protecting against light scratches, chips, swirl marks and UV rays. If you're interested in rust protection, you may want to look at a product specialized for the job.

What is the best for a deep shine?

A high quality carnauba provides a deep, natural shine that synthetic products can’t match. Thus, for a show car, carnauba is typically the right choice.

Which option lasts longer?

Synthetic waxes and sealants will usually last longer than carnauba based waxes, meaning you won’t have to reapply as often to maintain the protection on the vehicle's paint.

Which is Easier to Use and Apply?

Carnauba wax is generally much easier to apply and remove than synthetic options, making it a good choice for first-time users or those who don’t want to deal with the eventual hassle of removing it from their vehicle.

What is More Environmentally Friendly?

Carnauba wax is a natural product that is biodegradable, renewable and environmentally friendly. Synthetic options can be made from chemicals that may be harmful to the environment, making carnauba a better choice for those who are extremely eco-conscious.

What is the More Expensive Option?

Synthetic options can be more expensive than carnauba wax depending on the option chosen.

Some synthetic options are more cost friendly (ex: synthetic carnauba wax) than natural carnauba wax but some can also be more expensive (ex: ceramic coatings). In addition, pure carnauba wax can also differ in price depending on the quality of that raw materials.

What is the Best Option Overall?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and preferences. But, carnauba wax can offer you a wide range of benefits, some of which, synthetics cannot replicate effectively.

Is Carnauba the Right Wax Choice for You?

If you are looking for a natural product that will give your car a high-gloss finish and superior protection, then carnauba is the right choice for you. Just be prepared to reapply it more often than some synthetic options.

How to Choose the Right Carnauba Wax?

Now that you know all about carnauba and its benefits, you may be wondering what are the best carnauba waxes.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choose a high quality carnauba wax: carnauba wax can vary in quality, so make sure to choose a reputable brand.
• Consider your budget: carnauba wax can vary in grades, with the higher grades of wax (ex: yellow grade, the highest grade wax) being more expensive.
• Think about your needs: carnauba wax is available in a variety of formulations, so choose one that meets your specific needs.
• Know your vehicles: Dark colored vehicles sometimes have specially designed forms of wax as they are prone to imperfections once normal carnauba wax is applied.

Choosing a High Quality Brand like Turtle Wax Pro

There are many brands that sell car wax and carnauba wax, but not all of them are created equal. When choosing a wax, it’s important to choose a high-quality brand that will help you succeed in the car wash industry.

Turtle Wax Pro offers a wide range of benefits that make it the perfect choice for those looking for a top-quality set of chemicals.

Professionalism

The Turtle Wax brand has existed and been trusted for over 75 years. We know the car wash industry inside and out.

Which type of waxes, sealants and protectants will work for the best car wash and how to apply them evenly are just a few examples of the expertise that working with an industry leader like Turtle Wax Pro will provide your car wash.

Our company has a passion for cars that is evident in everything we do. From customer service, to the quality of our products, we ensure that not only do you have a fantastic service to offer your customers but also a strong relationship with a brand who truly cares.

Quality

As mentioned before, Turtle Wax Pro prides itself on having the best products in the business. We have decades of experience on helping car washes succeed in the industry, and one of the reasons is due to our products.

Carnauba wax is one of the best ways to protect a car and make it shine. And using Turtle Wax Pro (especially our Triple Shine Wax) ensures a top quality finish that will keep your cars in tip-top shape for years to come.

We hope that you now feel a little more comfortable when it comes to the largest car wax on the market and hope it will help you make the right choice on whether carnauba wax is the right option for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us! We would be happy to discuss the right car wax for your car wash needs.