Protection, shine and scent: The latest car wash innovations operators need to know
The Car Wash is a mundane affair for most people. You take your vehicle through a tunnel (or sit in a touchless wash) and at the end of the process, you have a clean vehicle. Simple and easy.
“What people want—and what our goal is to provide as a car wash operator—is a clean, shiny and dry vehicle at the end of the wash,” says Matt Verity, a consultant with MV Property Solutions Inc.
Achieving that outcome relies on using the right formulations of cleaners and soaps, and car wash operators have a broader array of chemical formulations than ever before. Increasingly, what is capturing operators’ attention are products infused with graphene and ceramic, which add an extra level of protection and shine to today’s vehicles.
“Ceramic and graphene products are currently the hottest offerings in the car wash industry. The value of both products resonates with customers as well as car wash operators,” says Rob Raskell, director of distributor development with Sonny’s CarWash Chemistry by Diamond Shine. “When applied correctly, these products add an impressive layer of protection to customers’ vehicles against many day-to-day environmental forces.”
Take a perennial summer issue: bugs. Most drivers have experienced returning from a road trip with their vehicle covered in insects. While it may seem minor, over time this can damage a car’s exterior paint and finish.
“When bugs are crushed on your vehicle, proteins latch onto the paint and begin to break down the surface, making it weaker and more prone to rust,” Raskell says. “The same concept applies to bird droppings. Oils and tar also have a negative effect, as they attract additional road and airborne debris, which degrades vehicle surfaces.”
Shay Baig, marketing manager with Transchem Group, says advances in graphene and ceramic formulations have also enabled operators to offer higher-quality vehicle cleaning at competitive price points—and to do so quickly.
“Ceramic and, more recently, graphene have emerged as some of the highest-performing options on the market,” Baig says. “Wash operators often have only seconds to demonstrate the value of a premium wash, and ceramic and graphene products clearly signal superior shine, finish and quality.
“While there are differences between the two, their performance is quite similar. Properly applied, either option delivers comparable levels of shine, protection and durability. One advantage of graphene is that it is a newer technology, making it a stronger marketing tool. Offering something consumers may not have experienced before—and perceive as higher value—can help drive top-tier wash package sales.”
Matthew Bristow, director of chemical sales for North America at Mark VII Equipment, says improved chemical formulations are particularly important in Canadian regions where vehicles are exposed to wide temperature swings, harsh weather and frequent dirt and debris.
“In areas where vehicles face demanding cleaning conditions, achieving an effective wash becomes even more critical,” Bristow says. “This is especially true for touchless systems, where presoak chemistry must be tailored to local soil types and environmental factors. Without a properly cleaned surface, even the most advanced protective technologies—such as graphene and ceramic coatings—cannot perform to their full potential. Proper preparation is essential.”
New formulations are also improving the drying process. Advanced agents help water sheet off vehicles more quickly while adding another layer of shine, making cars “pop” as they exit the wash.
“Advanced rinse aids bond more effectively, allowing air dryers to maximize results,” Bristow says. “Some formulas add anti-static properties, reducing post-wash dust. Emerging nano-bubble technology also helps break down mineral hardness and reduce scale buildup, enhancing overall drying performance. When paired with profiling dryers that adapt airflow to vehicle shape, the result is a faster, spotless finish.”
What’s that smell?
For most people, getting a car wash is a routine task. Some operators, however, are rethinking that experience by introducing seasonal lighting and scent enhancements.
ScrubaDub Car Wash, a New England-based chain, made headlines after adding a pumpkin spice scent to its wash. The added fee was donated to a local nonprofit that provides meals to critically ill individuals. Other operators have introduced holiday-themed scents, such as gingerbread during the Christmas season.
Raskell says a growing number of operators are adopting scent schedules. “They change scents periodically. We’re seeing a shift toward more earthy scents, as well as fragrances tied to holidays or specific times of year.”
Baig notes that scent is a powerful way to add value to the customer experience. “Our senses play a huge role in perception,” he says. “Whether it’s nostalgia, pleasantness or perceived effectiveness, people respond strongly to scent.”
“Scents also help operators create a lasting impression, differentiate from competitors and even mask odours inside the wash,” Baig adds. “Operators have many options—from stronger-scented products to seasonal offerings or even on-brand fragrances, such as mango or coconut for a tropical-themed wash.”
Adding a sensory layer can help car wash operators stand out and build brand loyalty, while also encouraging customers to trade up to premium wash packages that feel more personalized.
“Scent layering is becoming increasingly popular,” says Bristow. “Operators are using different scents at each wash stage to create a memorable experience. Custom scent branding is growing quickly, with unique fragrances tied to membership tiers or premium packages. Precision scent delivery systems now allow operators to fine-tune intensity based on customer feedback, creating a more immersive and personalized wash.
