if you live in the South or East of England it is likely that you will be affected by the Hosepipe Ban that has come into effect today 5th April 2012
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17615364If you live in an area covered by a temporary use ban you WILL NOT be allowed to use a hose to aid the cleaning of your vehicles, if you flout the ban you will not only be subject to disapproving looks from your neighbours but could also be subject to a £1000 fine.
However, all is not lost... there are still several options available to you
you can still wash your vehicles using the two bucket method and rinsing without using a hose... having previously lived in a flat with no hose I have found the easiest way to rinse your vehicle is to use a watering can, without the hose attachment, to 'sheet' water off your vehicle, starting with the top down... one can should easily be enough.
please don't use the advice stated in the linked article 'Use bathwater and washing-up water to wash the car and the garden' - taking showers uses far less water and the idea of using dirty washing-up water is just beyond comprehension?!
I don't know if garage 'jet washes' are still in use... if you do feel inclined to use one then please don't use the brush attachment that the previous dude left on the floor for you unless you like swirly paintwork.
The use of automated car washes should not be crossing your mind. If you like using them then you're obviously in the wrong section!
Supermarket sponge monkeys, as I like to call them, are still allowed to be operating and will no doubt be turning over good business... please do be aware that they are using the same sponge and some kind of water/dirt mix to wash your car clearcoat and wheels in no particular order.
Valeting 'drop-in' centres are still operating too... it might be an idea to observe their methods before you use one... I have seen some horrendous practices from some of these places, what products are they using and is their kit of good quality?
Professional mobile valeters and detailers - obviously these guys are the best option
, yes probably the most expensive but then again you get what you pay for... ironically they are allowed to come to your home and use your hose even though you aren't!!
There are also 'waterless' washing options such as
ONR - I haven't tried this product myself but I have tried a similar product and it is good - but I would only suggest it for light to medium soiling. Plenty of people on DW rave about it.
Talking of DW there are plenty of threads on there about the hosepipe ban with all sorts of suggestions for alternative cleaning methods.
Detailing World - Detailing ChatThe fact is... the better protected your car is in the beginning the less difficult it will be to keep clean... so a damn good detail will pay dividends in the long run maintaining your level of vehicle cleanliness during the ban
Keep Calm and Carry On!
