The Car wash vs wash and wax question is an interesting topic to dive in to because both actions take place on a daily basis all over the world. Ultimately your needs will determine which is the more prudent path for you, but until then, what are the differences and advantages to both?

What Is The Purpose Of A Simple Car Wash?

Obviously, as the name implies, the act itself is desiring to get a clean vehicle. More specific than that though, a car wash is designed for one purpose: speed. If you have ever run your garden hose over your vehicle you know it takes more than a little water to thoroughly reduce the grime on its exterior. Car washes utilize directed water at high speeds to eliminate surface debris to the best of their ability. Soapy suds are added to give some semblance of a shine, but to say this is applied meticulously is a stretch.

“The biggest pro of blending a wash and a wax is that the two compliment each other in their benefits. Once the exterior has been cleared of debris, a thorough waxing will dramatically improve the integrity of the paint and make the finish appear as if it is brand new”

Besides how quick the process is, the biggest upside to a bare bones car wash is its price. With a couple of bucks or even a few coins your vehicle can at worst look better than it did ten minutes before. The downside to a routine wash is that it is not going to protect your paint for the long haul. It is a temporary solution that will require more maintenance in the future, depending on the environment your car resides in.

Wash And A Wax

Mixing a waxing with a wash, especially when done by professional auto detailers, is more of a ‘seeing the forest through the trees’ solution in that it is protecting your car for longer periods of time. Washing makes our automobiles sparkle and bring out its luster, and waxing holds the body’s paint and smoothness so that impurities do not accrue on the exterior.

The biggest pro of blending a wash and a wax is that the two compliment each other in their benefits. Once the exterior has been cleared of debris, a thorough waxing will dramatically improve the integrity of the paint and make the finish appear as if it is brand new. Utilizing wax also cuts down the likelihood of your car displaying nicks and scratches. It serves as a buffer between the paint and the elements, and also acts like a temporary ‘sunscreen’ for your car’s body.

Conclusion

A regular car wash serves its purpose, but pumping a few dollars into a machine and having an imperfect cleaning will not last long. Washing and waxing is an artful exercise blending skill and attention to detail to improve the aesthetic of your vehicle. Beyond that however, it serves as a means to make sure the upkeep of your car is in pristine condition, especially when included as a part of a more comprehensive auto detailing regime. When comparing price wise, while waxing and washing is more, its benefits go beyond the cash coming out of your pocket. Each time wax is applied to a clean surface, the life of the paint gains weeks, months, and even years of positive results.