HOSEPIPE bans are an inconvenience to many – especially motorists who keep their car squeaky clean.
However, there are numerous ways to make sure your vehicle stays clean, even if using a housepipe is not an option.
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Car washing is a simple job – until a hosepipe ban cuts off your main cleaning device Credit: Getty
Starting from next week, nine regions in Kent will have to find alternatives for washing their car Credit: Getty
South East Water has announced another hosepipe ban this summer, with nine regions in Kent impacted from July 3.
The decision comes after a spike in water consumption in the region, driven by the ongoing June heatwave, seeing temperatures soar to record highs.
Hosepipe bans require thousands of households to halt the use of mains-connected hosepipes and sprinklers for non-essential jobs, with rule breaches leading to a £1,000 fine.
Although cleaning a car is not considered necessary, there are ways around the rules to make sure your motor stays pristine.
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Hosepipes are out of the question – but watering cans, buckets and sponges are not.
All of these items can be used throughout a hosepipe ban, but they must be filled up using a tap.
Watering cans, for one, have enough volume to wash away any soap and suds, creating a similar effect to any hosepipe.
For the best effect, it is recommended to add a rose attachment to the can, filling it up with cold water and rinsing the body panels downwards after soaping.
Five simple solutions for cleaning your car during a hosepipe ban
Using a watering can
Using a bucket
Using sponges
Visiting a local car washing business
Waterless car cleaners
Many car washing businesses recycle most of the water they use to clean vehicles Credit: Jackyenjoyphotography
Alternatively, use warm water when cleaning with a bucket and sponge, then leave your car to drip dry and if possible, add car care products for a premium shine.
As well as DIY methods, South East Water allow hosepipes to be used in commercial car washes, due to the fact they recycle much of the water they used.
This means you can continue visiting your local garage for a car clean, and not worry about draining your water supply at home.
Waterless car cleaners are also a hit amongst motorists, requiring just a quick spray and a wipe to transform your car’s bodywork.
After applying the waterless cleaner, leave your car to dry before using a microfibre cloth to wipe all the dirt away.
For a luxurious finish, it is best to position your car out of direct sunlight so that the soapy water mix does not dry too quickly and leave watermarks.
These simple steps will help keep your car squeaky clean, all while minimising water use.
