Use traditional methods of washing your car yourself or a hand wash service compared to automatic car wash machines is based on the personal preference of the car owner.
While the hand wash has the potential to give the most gleaming look, the alternative method is certain to be a lot quicker.
Let's take a look at the pros and cons of the different car washing options:
Washing by hand.
Giving the car a regular hand wash is the most traditional method. Even though it is slower than the automatic alternative, it does have its many plus points, as well as a few downsides.
Pros High-quality and customized - a hand wash has the potential to give the best all-round cleaning performance. A regular hand wash can easily be customized to include other cleaning strategies. With actual hands on contact with the car, it is possible to use extra cleaning techniques like waxing and claying. Easy to get started - the cost of a basic hand wash is very inexpensive with a need to only invest in a few sponges and a bucket. However, this cost will increase if planning to use other cleaning strategies such as waxing. Better reach - the may be many places on the car that aren't property cleaned by the automatic machines. A full hand wash service has the potential to clean the dirt and grime from literally any part or hidden corner of the car.
Cons Time and labor intensive - a hand wash can be very labor intensive and can leave muscles tired and aching. Also, the time involved can vary with the type of cleaning service provided. An in-depth clean with multiple coatings can easily take a few hours to complete. Poor finish - if the car is left with any unwashed soap in place, this can lead to a dull looking vehicle. Also, there is the risk of tiny bits of dirt building up on the sponges or rags used to clean the car which can result in the unwanted scratch marks.
Automatic car wash
An automatic car wash is a time-saving alternative to a full hand washing service. Many people are starting to favor the automatic services for a variety of reasons, but it does have its negative points as well as plenty of positives.
Pros Gentle on the paint work - the automated machines are very gentle to the entire car and will complete the job without causing any damage. In the past, these machines did use hard brushes which had the potential to cause scratches, but this is no longer the case with the modern units. Thorough cleaning service - the automated machines are programmed to carefully clean all areas of a car to ensure a consistent clean is provided every time. Cost-effective - the latest machines are designed with specific car washing techniques that can help to lower the water use and save time. This has the benefit of cutting costs for both the operator and car owners.
Cons Limited contact - a standard strategy with the automated machines is to use minimal contact with the car which can mean the most stuck dirt will still be in place after the washing cycle is complete. Water spotting - there is the risk of water marks being left on the car if the final air dry stage is not entirely effective.