Washing your car on pavement will send detergents directly into storm drains.
Use a commercial car wash or wash your car on your lawn.
How you can help keep Lake Champlain clean:
Practice Eco-friendly Car Care
Tips for washing your car
- Avoid hosing down your garage floor and driveway; instead, sweep regularly.
- Use non-toxic cleaning products. A water and baking soda mixture works great on removing corrosion from battery terminals and cleaning chrome; mix the soda with a mild, biodegradable dishwashing soap to clean wheels and tires.
- Use a mixture of white vinegar or lemon juice with water to clean your car windows.
- Be sure to repair any fluid leaks in your vehicle and dispose of used auto fluids and batteries at designated drop-off or recycling locations.
- If you have to wash your car at home, wash it on the lawn, where the grass can absorb the water.