Cleaning products are vital to a car wash’s efficiency, profitability and customer satisfaction. Therefore, industry professionals must be selective and identify the best brands for their operations.
While spotless finishes are essential, the cleaners should also control costs and streamline operations. What are the best-value cleaning solutions for high-volume car washes?
Top choices for high-volume car washes
The right brand can significantly impact daily operations and business growth. Car washes should pick their cleaning products for consistent results and minimized downtime. Here are the top seven brands for high-volume vehicle washing operations.
1. JBS Industries
JBS Industries has been a leader in vehicle wash supplies since 1979. For nearly five decades, the brand has grown to serve clients across the professional cleaning spectrum. Facility managers trust JBS Industries to produce top-performing solutions, including detergents and hyper concentrates. The brand also sells protectants, presoaks and specialty products for your operations.
The detergents stand out because they help professionals save money and please customers. JBS Industries utilizes a high dilution ratio in its chemical composition, allowing you to clean more cars. Managers can choose low and high-pH detergents to tackle dirt and mineral compositions.
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2. AP Formulators
AP Formulators specializes in high-quality, customizable cleaning chemicals. The brand started in a truck trailer before growing into a reputable industry leader. Professionals benefit from the company’s products, which are suitable for any environment. From conveyors to in-bay solutions, AP Formulators has cleaning solutions for all high-volume car washes.
The brand’s bestselling product is the Performance Wheel Cleaner. Its NPE-free formula enhances brightness and whitens whitewalls for powerful cleaning results. In-bay and self-serve facilities can utilize this specialty cleaner. You can also request formulas for your particular needs. AP Formulators offers numerous colors and scents to provide personalized solutions.
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3. Zep
Zep has consistently produced top-tier cleaning products since 1937. The Georgia-based brand takes pride in its research and development, featuring over 4,000 proprietary formulas and solutions. While the company makes degreasers and bathroom cleaners, it also manufactures products for commercial vehicle washing facilities. Professionals can select from truck and trailer washes, concentrates and powders.
One of the brand’s bestselling products is Zep-O-Shine, a premium-grade vehicle wash. This one-step product is best for handwashing at professional facilities, detailing shops and service stations. Each gallon contains synthetic detergents and wetting agents to clean vehicles effectively. The product’s surfactants are powerful enough to cut stubborn soil but are also biodegradable.
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4. Sonny’s
Sonny’s understands car washes and exclusively focuses on them. The Florida company is committed to equipment, technologies and supplies for your business. If you need the best-value cleaning solutions for high-volume operations, you can rely on Sonny’s brands. Solutions Direct ensures affordability and effective cleaning results for your business.
Professionals prefer Solutions Direct’s high-pressure detergents, such as Bay Soap Citrus. This high-foaming product cleans vehicle surfaces without leaving undesirable marks. You can purchase the product in a 5-gallon pail or a 15-gallon drum. Other popular products from the brand include Excite Triple Foam Conditioner and Bye Bye Bug Prep.
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5. Ecolab
Ecolab stands out because its cleaning solutions for high-volume car washes are environmentally friendly. The brand has become a global leader in sustainability by reducing water consumption and implementing science-based solutions. Data-driven insights enable in-house professionals to advance washing technologies for your operation. Each product delivers value and quality for your customers.
Ecolab’s cleaning solutions include prewash liquids, foaming shampoos and powders. From waxes to drying agents, the selection delivers economical and environmentally friendly solutions. Professionals should consider the Kenotek Pro line, which offers versatile products for textile and bodywork. Ecolab also specializes in active sensation foam, which is applicable for brush shampoos and hand shampoos.
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6. Mothers
Mothers is a brand for auto enthusiasts that promotes the best-value cleaning solutions for high-volume operations. The company started with aluminum polish and has positioned itself as an industry leader. Mothers’ line of polishes helps professionals tackle imperfections without leaving streaks. You can use these products to remove swirl marks and enhance the appearance of any vehicle.
The brand’s professional line includes an effective, water-based degreaser concentrate. Mothers sells a gallon-sized container of this highly versatile product to lift grease and baked-on grime. The powerful cleaner is safe and biodegradable, helping professional facilities reduce grease. Professionals can safely use it on paint and aluminum engine components.
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7. Simoniz
Simoniz has over 100 years of experience in the manufacturing sector. Its expertise benefits professionals with some of the best-value cleaning solutions for high-volume operations. The brand designs its products to last, whether in conveyors or in-bay automatic systems. Simoniz offers presoaks, body shampoos and other solutions for effective cleanings.
Simoniz stands out for its hot wax and shine solutions. The brand’s unique application gives professionals the tools for genuine carnauba waxes. Lava Shield delivers Simoniz’s longest-lasting shine for customers’ vehicles. Professionals can also procure Diamond Plate, a nano-ceramic polymer coating that adds protective layers.
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Methodology to determine the best-value cleaning solutions for high-volume car washes
Managers are expected to select the proper cleaning solutions for their businesses. They must consider factors beyond price, including the following criteria.
Driving success with the right cleaning solutions
Deciding on cleaning solutions involves more than price tags. Professionals must be strategic and meticulous by considering performance, efficiency and customer satisfaction. Simultaneously, managers must consider cost control and employee workflows. The changing industry means business owners should stay updated on the latest innovations and proven brands.
More must-read stories from Enterprise League:
- Learn essential customer retention strategies to boost your car wash’s repeat business.
- Discover how choosing the right business location impacts your service station’s success.
- Explore inventory management software options to track cleaning supplies efficiently.
- Understand the benefits of preventive maintenance for your car wash equipment.
- Master business expense management to maximize your car wash profitability.
