When I was a wee tot, about 10 years or so, a few friends and I decided to try our hands at the lucrative business of car washing. We got our buckets, sponges, poster boards that read CAR WASH on them, all purchased using our parents’ credits cards, and went to work. The days were long, the hours were hard, and the money was… nonexistent. Nobody came our way looking for a car wash. Especially not when they could get it professionally done down the street for $3.00. 

As it turns out we weren’t well prepared anyway. The soap we decided to use left streaks on the windows and it was difficult to get the car looking perfect. Unfortunately, we had to shut down shop and perhaps maybe try again the next year (and this was before the economic disaster!). 

Years later I was working a security job at the mall and they wanted me to wash the security truck. The first thing that came to my mind: I have no idea how. I had forgotten what I should have known to do! And for many of us, that is just the case. We either forget or choose not to remember. When it comes to something so simple, there is really no reason to have a refresher…So, without further ado, here’s a refresher.

Firstly, use your OWN credit card and purchase some car wax from your local hardware or auto supply store. While you’re at it buy some tire polish as well.

Secondly, find a bucket in your garage or around your house and fill it with water. I prefer warm myself but I don’t think it matters.

Thirdly, add the car wax. A small, but healthy amount will suffice.

Fourthly, using a sponge, apply water / wax mixture over your car. Use a hose to rinse, then repeat, as many times as you like until you feel your car is clean.

Finally, apply your tire polish.

Grab a rag or towel you’re willing to wash and dry your car. If it’s a particularly pleasant day, you may want to let the sun dry your car for you.

I became quite a pro at this while I worked security. Hell, I could probably reopen my car wash business from my own house now. I might actually get a customer or two. Then again, with the economy… nah, I wouldn’t get any.