Seasonal Shifts: A Guide to Adjusting Your All Season Car Wash for Optimal Performance Year-Round

As winter sets in, car wash businesses are faced with a unique set of challenges that differ from other seasons.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take as a car wash operation to ensure your business runs smoothly through the winter season.

Your car wash may need to tune its chemistry, upkeep equipment, or change operations to combat these challenges.

Winter's Importance to Car Washes

Winter is one of the most important seasons for car wash businesses and good reason.

Snow and otherwise inclement weather can create a regular eyesore on vehicles much more quickly than in other parts of the year. It can also cause corrosion and rust on body panels and other parts of vehicles, which encourages car owners to wash their vehicles more often.

This leads to a lot more business for car washes that face harsh winters such as in Canada and the Northern US.

How does Cold Weather affect Vehicles?

Cold weather can have a big impact on the condition of vehicles.

The cold temperatures bring new cleaning challenges that will not be present in warmer months and it makes it even more important to wash your car in the winter.

Some may think to avoid washing their car in the colder months but you must wash your car in the winter to protect it from all the damage it can face from road salt.

Road Salt

Salt is one of the biggest reasons why cars look so dirty in the wintertime. It is used to melt ice and provide traction on roads.

Salt in a combination of dirt, snow, and ice can not only leave an unpleasant finish on a car's paint but even restrict vision from your windshields and mirrors.

This is why it is a must for car washes to be prepared for the winter season by tuning their chemistry and adjusting their operations.

How Often Should Cars be Washed in the Winter?

The answer to this will depend entirely on the situation. How bad is the weather, how much the car is driven/been outside, and up to the owner's discretion on keeping their car clean. But it is recommended to wash it often in the winter, as rust and other types of damage can start to occur.

Tips for Winter Car Washes

While some areas may experience mild winters, the ones that deal with heavier snowfalls and constant ice will appreciate these tips from our team on handling the season as the temperature drops.

Rinsing!

Rinsing is essential in any self-serve, friction, or touchless car wash, but it’s especially important during the winter. It is vital to remove as much of that salt, visible dirt and winter grime as possible before the cleaning stages can begin to safely wash the rest of the vehicle.

Undercarriage Wash

Salt and debris can build up underneath the car and start to cause major rust. Focusing on the undercarriage will help clean off that residue to minimize the potential damage that can be done to your customer's vehicles.

On the Car Wash Chemistry Side of Things...

Finishing products always play a strong role in car washing but they are especially relied upon in the winter months. Sealants, waxes, ceramic coatings, and more are used to protect the vehicle from road salt and other products after they are cleaned, to help prevent corrosive damage and keep them looking their best.

Equipment and More

Colder temperatures may affect your equipment and/or building operations, here are just a few of the areas you may want to look at.

Heaters

Ensure your heaters are functioning as you will need them during these few months. A heated garage can ensure a much smoother operation for both your equipment and your employees. It can also prevent problems with freezing which can wreak havoc regarding your pipes and functionality.

Equipment Freezing Risks

Overhead doors and self-serve equipment are examples of areas that can freeze and become not usable in very cold temperatures, you will want to make sure they are working and well-lubricated. This also goes for other equipment and moving parts that can freeze.

Some equipment faces the risk of freezing and becoming unusable during the cold. Some notable examples would be self-serve systems and overhead doors that can have their doors shut.

What is the best way to keep your car clean in the winter?

A professional automatic car wash is the best way to wash your car in the winter. This will ensure that all the salt, dirt and grime are safely removed from your car with minimal effort.

Washing your car at home in the winter can cause ice and snow to stick to your car, leading to improper washing of the vehicle. Therefore, using a professional automatic car wash is recommended during the winter months as it will thoroughly clean your car.

It is also important to use waxes, sealants and ceramic coatings after washing your car in order to protect it from the winter season and ensure your paint job stays intact.

What is the best weather to wash your car?

The best weather to wash your car is on a mild winter day with temperatures between 45-60 degrees Fahrenheit when there is no snow or rain in the forecast. This will allow for the car to be properly cleaned and dried without any residue accumulating on the vehicle.

Additionally, this temperature range is optimal for waxes and sealants to work properly in protecting your car. It is important to note that if the temperature is too cold, snow can stick to the car and cause improper cleaning.

Concern about the Winter Season? Contact Turtle Wax Pro and Transchem Group

Being based in Canada, we know a thing or two about car washing in harsh winter seasons. We support our clients in a variety of aspects ranging from chemistry, equipment, operations, marketing and more, some of which can differ in the winter.

We'd be happy to talk about what your car wash can do to be better suited for the busy winter season.

Bugs splats are a common issue for many, and because they can be hard to remove, can leave some unsatisfying results when your customers decide to get their cars cleaned.

Dried bugs can not only be tough to remove but they can interfere with your other car wash chemicals, preventing them from effectively accessing the surface of the car, and thus, the quality of your car wash.

In this blog, we'll go through in detail what bug splats are, how you can remove them both in the car wash and at home, and even how you can help prevent them.

What are bug splats?

Bug splats are unattractive spots that you see on your windshield, windows and car body. This occurs when driving and insects or other small animals are caught flying or crawling in the path of a vehicle, and make impact.

As the name suggests, these splats are usually made up of squashed bugs and their guts. Not only are they unsightly, but if left untreated, bug splats can wear on a vehicle's clear coat, and become tough stains to remove.

Ultimately, they can be a nuisance, and a hard-to-avoid consequence of driving in many areas, particularly at certain times of year when insects abound.

What are bug splats caused by? Bug encounters at speed.

When a bug hits your front bumper, windshield and car windows while you're driving, the force of the impact can unfortunately cause the bug to splatter, leaving behind bug stains.

The remains of the bug guts can then dry and bake onto your windshield and become difficult to remove. It is for this reason that you should try to clean dead bugs off your vehicle frequently.

Can Bug Stains or Bug Guts Ruin your Car's Paint?

While not necessarily harming car paint, if bug stains are not cleaned up in a timely manner, the bug residue can eat away at your car's clear coat and in extreme cases, cause permanent damage to it.

So you will want to be sure to tackle this problem in a timely manner to avoid any vehicle surface damage.

Combatting Bug Splats in a Car Wash

Without a specialized product to get the job done, even professional car washes can have a challenge tackling pesky bug stains that can stubbornly resist removal.

That's why at Turtle Wax Pro, we have created powerful Bug Removers, such as this foaming option with a fresh lemon scent. It is very flexible for use in Friction, Touchless, Self-serve and Manual applications and produces a rich, dense foam that quickly penetrates and loosens stubborn bug residue from the vehicle surface.

Plus, it's an Eco-friendly and biodegradable option that you and your customers can feel good about.

Don't let your customers be bugged about insects splats on their rides; instead utilize a powerful Turtle Wax Pro Bug Remover at your car wash for exceptional results.  

How to remove bug splats from cars at home?

If you find yourself with a windshield covered in bug splats, don't despair.

While it is easiest thing to do is to take your vehicle to a professional car wash, which will have powerful products geared to cleaning bugs off your car quickly, you can remove bug splatter at home as well - but it may take some effort.    

With a little elbow grease and the right product, you can have your car looking clean in no time.

Use tools like the right type of cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth, and you're in great shape to start removing bugs from cars!

Remember, whether driving long distances or just locally, the sooner you remove dead bugs from your vehicle, the easier it will be to get your car clean.

Soap and Water

While not the strongest solution, common household items can work in a pinch to clean bug guts and your car.  Home remedies including dish soap paired with warm water or even hot water can have a great impact to remove dead bugs.

Apply soap and water with a soft cloth or microfiber towel and wipe the dead bugs away. If the weather has been hot, or these dead bugs have been on the car for a while, it may take some time and elbow grease to remove bugs from your car. You can also lay microfiber towels soaked in warm cleaning solution over stubborn stains for a few minutes before you wipe the bugs from your car, for easier removal.  

Bug Remover

While there are a number of ways to remove bug guts, and this one is more powerful than dish soap. We recommend using a product that is specially designed for the job, as it will make the job easier.

A product that is formulated to remove bugs will be gentle on your car's paint and will not cause any damage to it. For an at-home option, consider the retail product Turtle Wax's Bug and Tar Remover. It also works for Tree Sap, which we mention below.

We recommend following the manufacturer's instructions on using the bug remover to remove bugs effectively and safely.

Bug Sponge

A bug sponge can be an option for some as well, more notably, the at-home car washer to help remove dead bugs.

Bug sponges are sponges specifically designed to be used on car surfaces that have bug remains or bug splatter. Pair it with a soap or car wash product designed to clean bug splats.

How to use a Bug Sponge

• To use a bug sponge, you can either wet the surface you want to clean using a spray bottle filled with warm water and car wash soap, or dip the sponge in a bucket with the same cleaning solution.
• Then work the sponge on the desired areas. Sometimes stubborn stains may need to soak for a few minutes.
• You can then wipe off the surface to remove the remaining bugs from your car with a microfiber cloth or microfiber towel.

On a related note: How to clean tree sap off of your car?

Tree sap can be just as difficult to remove as bug stains.

If you find yourself with a car covered in tree sap, and you want to solve the product at home,  we recommend using a product that is specifically designed for the job.

A product that is formulated to remove tree sap will be gentle on your car's paint and will not cause any damage to it.

Sometimes tree sap removal products also act as bug removal products as well, which makes them a useful tool in your car wash cleaning products arsenal.

For the home washer, you will want to apply the cleaner and dry it off with a microfiber cloth or towel.

How to prevent bug splats?

Wash Frequently, and Apply Car Wax

The biggest thing you can do as a car owner to prevent bugs on your vehicle is to clean your car regularly.

When you wash your vehicle in a timely manner, bugs will be much easier to wipe away.

Cleaning the vehicle will not only be removing bug guts on the windows or surface, but will protect the clear coat on the car paint job, and provide a glossy and "slippery" finish that may help prevent bugs from your car.  

This is especially the case for cars applied with finishing products such as a car wax.

Car wax creates a smooth surface on your vehicle which helps deflect bugs and their guts upon impact.

Car wax, such as carnauba wax, also carries numerous other benefits for vehicles.

Bug Deflector

Another way to prevent bug guts is by the use of a bug deflector.

A bug deflector is placed on the leading edge of your vehicle, such as the hood, and acts as a shield from bugs hitting your car. Bugs will hit its surface, and be deflected away from the windshield, reducing bug stains.

They are especially useful for a long road trip, those who drive in an affected area with high insect populations, or during certain seasons where bugs are more prevalent.

‍

Are bug splats a challenge for your car wash business? Contact Turtle Wax Pro

Bug splats can be a real challenge for many car wash businesses as some areas are more susceptible to bugs than others.

And not dealing with them appropriately can affect the rest of your wash process too, leaving you and your customers with a subpar car wash result.

It is important to recognize if bugs are a common issue for your car wash market and work with your car wash supplier on implementing changes that will help you tackle it with success.

Turtle Wax Pro: Excellence in Car Care

With over 75 years of experience in the car care industry, Turtle Wax Pro has a wealth of knowledge cleaning cars through any problem you can imagine, and that includes bugs.

We have dedicated bug removers that will help support your business in bug season, but also help prevent bug stains going forward.

So get in touch with us today if achieving a better wash is what you want for your business!

In a world where building stronger community ties and social responsibility are increasingly valued, businesses can play a crucial role. Car wash businesses have a unique opportunity to serve their communities while also enhancing their business prospects.

Car wash fundraisers not only promote a spirit of giving back but can also serve as a strategic marketing move to grow your business.

The Power of Car Wash Fundraisers

A car wash fundraiser is more than just a charity event; it's a partnership between your business, the community, and often, a deserving cause. By leveraging your car wash services to raise funds, you are creating a win-win situation.

You're enabling community members to contribute to a cause while getting their cars cleaned, and your business gets the chance to showcase its services, attract potential customers, and strengthen its local reputation among the other car washes.

Fundraisers can be used for both stand alone car washes or even smaller ones attached to a gas station or convenience store.

Strengthening Community Bonds

One of the most effective ways to conduct a successful car wash fundraiser is by partnering with local schools and sports teams.

Such alliances offer mutual benefits. Schools and teams get a platform to raise money for their needs, and your business taps into a network of local families who could turn into loyal customers.

Furthermore, supporting local businesses boosts the local economy, fostering a sense of mutual support and resilience within the community.

Unique Fundraiser Ideas for Your Car Wash Business

Traditional Car Wash Fundraisers

This is the classic approach where community members bring their cars in for a free car wash and all or part of the donations go to the group or chosen cause. It's a time-tested and effective method.

Themed Car Wash Events

Adding a theme, like a holiday or local event, can attract more participants. Think about Halloween costume car wash or a Fourth of July patriotic car washes. This can bring an element of fun and novelty that can draw a crowd.

Competitive Events

Hosting a competition, such as the 'fastest car wash' or 'best-detailed car', can create excitement and draw a crowd. Be sure to offer attractive prizes to motivate participation.

Additional Services or Extras

Offering additional services for donations can increase the fundraising potential. For example, interior cleaning supplies, waxing, or tire shining can be added extras for those who wish to donate more.

Planning a Car Wash Fundraiser

Picking a Cause or Reason

It's essential to select a cause that resonates with your community. Whether it's raising funds for a local school, a sports team, or a local charity, having a clear and compelling cause will drive participation.

Set realistic goals for what you hope to achieve in terms of funds raised and community engagement.

Establishing Partnerships

Reach out to local businesses, schools, and organizations to partner in your fundraiser.

They can provide volunteers, promote your event to their networks, and contribute in-kind donations for raffle prizes or food and drinks for the event.

Marketing

Develop a marketing strategy that utilizes both traditional and digital media. A fundraising flyer and related posters can be distributed locally, while social media and email newsletters can reach a broader audience.

Regular updates and countdowns can build anticipation leading up to the event.

Execution: Turning Plans into Action

Even though the aim of the day is to raise funds, maintaining your standard of service is critical.

Balancing efficiency and thoroughness in your next car wash fundraising process can leave a lasting positive impression and could turn fundraiser participants into regular customers.

Staffing and Role Assignments

Having a well-trained and enthusiastic team is crucial to the smooth operation of your fundraiser.

Employees and Volunteers

You should leverage your own staff in a fundraiser but it is also a great opportunity to get the community involved and let volunteers help.

Ensure they understand their roles and know the basics of how to wash cars and enjoy themselves in the process.

You should have enough help that you can fill up a parking lot or area, and be able to wash two or more cars at a time (more the merrier!). Ideally, visitors should not have to wait a very long time to have their cars washed.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Ensure all safety protocols are strictly adhered to, both for the one washing cars, volunteers and the vehicles. Moreover, your car wash fundraiser should also be eco-friendly, minimizing water use and using environmentally friendly products.

Post Car Wash Fundraiser: Thank You and Follow-Up

Expressing Gratitude

After the event, it's essential to thank everyone who participated, volunteered, or partnered in your fundraiser.

This gesture of gratitude not only fosters goodwill but also helps to build long-term relationships within the community.

Evaluating the Car Wash Fundraiser Success and Learning Lessons

Reflect on the event, identify what worked well and areas where improvements could be made for future fundraisers.

Analyzing these strengths and weaknesses in advance can be invaluable for planning future community events.

Utilizing the Connections Made for Business Growth

Leverage the new relationships and contacts made during the fundraiser to promote your business.

Perhaps offer a discount on future car washes or a referral program to encourage these newfound friends to become loyal customers.

Looking for Ideas to Generate Business? Get in Touch with Turtle Wax Pro!

Hosting a car wash fundraiser can have a profound impact on both your business and the community. Not only does it provide a platform for raising funds for a worthy cause, but it also showcases your business's services, builds valuable community relationships, and enhances your local reputation.

It is also a great way to get your name out there in the local market and generate more business. Marketing is often an uphill battle within the car wash industry, be creative and leverage your car wash supplier to gain an advantage where you can.

If you're wanting to gain more market share, get in touch with Turtle Wax Pro! We support our clients of all car wash types in their marketing efforts, on top of chemical, equipment, operations, training, and everything in between.