We’re not going to tell you not to wash your car. But we can give you some advice on how and where to do it to protect our way of life and our ocean. (You’re welcome, S-Turns surfers and turtles.)
Why it Matters
Water quality experts tell us that car washing is a serious contributor to water pollution. When we wash our cars in the driveway, street, or parking lot, polluted water carrying heavy metals from rust, motor oil, gasoline and other harmful substances can flow into storm drains and into our ocean, without being filtered.
As West Maui residents, it’s estimated that we use 116 gallons of water per car wash, and do so 90 times per year. That equals nearly one swimming pool of dirty water dumped into our ocean, per car every year. But we can do something about that.
Say Yes to Commercial Car Washes
The best way to lessen your car wash footprint is to take your ride to a commercial car wash. On West Maui, the two car washes noted below have filters on their drains, and their pipes lead to the sewer system, instead of straight to the ocean.
West Maui Shell
, Lahaina
Lahaina Car Wash & Lube
, Lahaina
Use Your Lawn for Car Washes
The second best alternative to a commercial car cash is to give your car a scrub on your own lawn. Pick a place that absorbs water, such as grass or gravel, so that pollutants can be filtered. Also use biodegradable, phosphate-free cleaners and do so sparingly. Remember: the more soap you lather on, the more water you’ll need to wash it off.
If you’re pau, but still have a bucket of soapy water, dump it in the toilet or down the sink, not in the storm drain.
