10 Best Car Wash Soaps Reviewed & Rated in 2024
A clean and well-maintained car is not just easy on the eye but has plenty of benefits for the car owner as well. Regular car washes have been proven to enhance the value of your car, protect your car’s exterior to harsh elements such as hail, and can go a long way in ensuring that your car functions at optimal efficiency. You reap even more benefits when you opt to wash your car yourself instead of taking it to a car wash. By choosing to wash your car yourself, you can save a lot of money. More importantly, you have more power in choosing the products more specifically tailored to your car’s needs.
Featured Recommendations
- Meguiar's G7164
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Our rating - Price: See Here
- Chemical Guys CWS_1010_64
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Our rating - Price: See Here
- Armor All Ultra Shine
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Our rating - Price: See Here
A best car wash soap is the first step in giving your car the proper attention it deserves. However, the market has become so oversaturated with thousands of products that it can be a frustrating process to find the best car wash soap that addresses all your needs. When choosing the best car wash soap, you should specifically consider the soap’s PH-balance as well as how much the soap foams.
Since a car wash soap is the first step in cleaning and protecting your car, it is vital that you choose one that most adequately addresses your needs. Below you’ll find some of the highest rating car wash soaps available that is sure to suit your car and pocket.
10 Best Car Wash Soaps
1. Meguiar's G7164
The formula is efficient enough to strip away dirt while the essential oils in the soap work to condition and protect your car's exterior. The result is a clean car with a glossy finish and restored color.
High Lubricity
This car soap offers a high lubricity formula which means that the soap itself is very slippery. This is an ideal feature of a car wash soap since all the dirt and grime will simply slide off and require less physical effort from you.
Cost and Value
Compared to other car wash soaps on the market, the G7164 is very reasonably priced. Especially when you consider that the G7164 operates as a washing and protecting product all in one.
Washes and conditions the car in one easy step
Essential oils in the soap will enhance your car's color and clarity
High foaming soap formula is easy and gentle to use
Soap is biodegradable
Will not damage your skin or driveway
Soap has a strong scent
The bottle can get damaged easily
2. Chemical Guys CWS_1010_64
This soap offers a high amount of foam with lubricity which means that dirt and grime are extremely easy to remove. The high amount of foam will make for easy cleaning and require less scrubbing effort from you.
Ideal For Two Bucket Method
This soap's concentrated formula makes it an ideal choice for those who favour the two bucket method. Simply use an ounce of formula in a 5-gallon bucket of water for easy and powerful cleaning.
Cost and Value
This product is more expensive compared to other similar products on the market. However, the concentrated formula means that you’ll use a lot less soap. A single bottle may be more expensive but will likely last you much longer than other products.
Soap offers a lot of foam for easy cleaning
Concentrated formula
Neutral pH balance
Versatile formula - can be used on glass, metal, vinyl, plastic, etc
Smells great
Can leave water spots
Not effective for heavy-duty cleaning
3. Armor All Ultra Shine
This formula's impressive list of ingredients works effectively to cut through dirt while simultaneously creating a protective barrier on your car's surface. The formula includes premium ingredients such as real carnauba wax.
Powerful Cleaner
The soap contains several ingredients that can take care of heavy-duty cleaning while still protecting the integrity of your car's exterior. The soap is safe to use on any surface.
Cost and Value
Armor All is very reasonably priced considering the products wash and wax action. However, since the product is not concentrated, you will need to use more per single wash compared to concentrated formulas.
Washes and Waxes
Gentle formula
Helps water to bead on your exterior
Can be used on any surface
Contains real carnauba wax
You need to use a lot of soap
Can leave streaks or water spots
4. Mother's 05674
This soap formula is perfect for quick, effortless cleaning. The soap's gentle PH-balance protects the integrity of your car's exterior while added wax works to enhance your car's shine.
Concentrated Formula
This formula is highly concentrated which makes washing easier for you. The concentrated soap ensures that dirt and grime slide off your car easily. This also means that you'll use much less and a single bottle will last you a long time.
Cost and Value
Mother's is one of the cheapest car wash soap options available. Despite this competitive price, this car was soap packs a punch in how effectively it cleans. The concentrated formula also means that you'll need to use a lot less compared to other soaps.
Reasonably priced
Biodegradable soap
Washes and waxes all in one
Neutral pH balance
Concentrated formula
Can leave water spots
Does not work well with foam blaster
5. Griot's Garage 10866
This formula provides a rich lather with plenty of foam. The high foam content is ideal for car soap since it makes washing easier for you. A high foam content means that dirt will come off easily and won't require hours of scrubbing.
Leaves a Streak-Free Finish
A major benefit of this formula is that it does not leave streaks or water spots on your car. The soap breaks down easily once you rinse it off. This will leave you with a shiny, streak and spot free finish.
Cost and Value
This soap is one of the cheaper options available on the market while still delivering on its promise. Since the formula is concentrated a little will go a long way.
Great smell
Does not leaves streaks or spots
Biodegradable
Provides a rich later for easy washing
Ph-balanced
Not effective for heavy-duty cleaning
The bottle can get damaged easily
6. Adam's NEW Car Wash
Despite the soap's powerful performance, the formula itself has a neutral pH. The soap will be gentle on any surface while still effectively removing dirt and grime. The soap will not strip your car of its wax and is gentle enough to be used on your car's trim.
Concentrated Formula
This soap formula is concentrated which provides a high foam content. Only a little soap is needed to work up into a rich and effective lather. A single bottle will last you a very long time.
Cost and Value
This formula is more expensive than other products on the market. The high cost is attributed to the premium ingredients that the formula contains. While it may be more expensive, it will last you longer thanks to the formula's high concentration and rich foaming capacity.
Neutral pH Balance
Biodegradable
Does not leave streaks or soap residue
High-quality ingredients
Concentrated formula
Expensive
The soap's thick consistency can be difficult to pour effectively
7. Meguiar's G17748
The added polymers in the formula give your car that "just waxed" look without compromising on the soap's foam. This soap is ideal for someone who wants to clean and wax their car without spending too much time on it.
High Foaming Capacity
This product can easily be worked up into a rich lather than quickly and gently cleanses your car. The soapy suds is not at all affected or compromised by the product's added wax.
Cost and Value
This option is more expensive than other car wash soaps. However, the formula operates as both a washing and waxing agent. This means that you won't have to spend extra time and money on additional products.
Added polymers wax your car while you wash
Gentle, pH-neutral soap
High foaming capacity
Boosts car's exterior protection
Expensive
Can leave soap residue on your car
8. Turtle Wax T-472R ICE
The product's unique combination of added polymers work together to create a unique protective layer on your car's exterior. This protective barrier will make sure that your car is weatherproof in all conditions.
Enhances Car's Appearance
The soap contains several ingredients that work to enhance your car's color, clarity and gives it a glossy sheen. This means a great all-rounder product for people who don't want to spend hours caring for their car.
Cost and Value
This is one of the cheaper products available on the market. While you do need a considerable amount of soap to clean your car, the product is a great option for entry-level car enthusiasts.
Neutral pH balance
Adds protective barrier
Adds gloss to car
Foams well
Soap can leave marks
Foam disappears quickly
9. TriNova Car Wash Concentrate
This formula is highly concentrated and you will only require a small amount to create a rich and effective cleansing lather. The concentrated formula ensures that you clean your car efficiently and saves you money.
Versatile Formula
This gentle formula can be used on any surface on car exterior or interior. The soap can be used either for a two bucket wash method or with a foam blaster.
Cost and Value
This soap is more expensive than other options available on the market. However, the concentrated formula means that you won't have to buy new soap regularly. In addition, most bottles of this product usually come with a free microfibre mitt.
Washes and conditions
Gentle pH-balanced formula
Works well with any washing technique
Concentrated formula
Expensive
Can leave streaks or water spots
10. Zymol Z530
All ingredients used in Zymol Z530 are natural. This translates into a gentle, yet effective soap that breaks down easily and is safe to use for your car and the environment.
Rich Foam
This option has been scientifically proven to create more foam than other similar products. This foam provides plenty of lubricity for quick and easy washing. Moreover, the foam is easy to rinse off and does not leave any residue behind.
Cost and Value
Compared to other products, Zymol is somewhat more expensive, yet not exorbitantly so. The higher price can likely be attributed to the product's list of entirely natural and sustainable ingredients as well as the fact that the soap is a concentrated formula.
Made from natural, sustainable ingredients
Concentrated formula
Gentle pH-balanced
Environmentally friendly
High foaming capacity
More expensive than other products
Not suitable for heavy-duty cleaning
The best car wash soap can be a powerful tool for you to enhance your car’s exterior as well as protect it from the general wear and tear that comes with driving. A regular car wash does more than keep your car clean, but it contributes to your car’s overall health.
A weekly or bi-weekly car wash can ensure that you remove all dirt and grime that could hinder your car’s performance. Dust and dirt that builds up over time can damage your car’s exterior and in extreme circumstances even erode the paint layer.
This is why it’s important to choose a gentle soap that won’t further damage your car’s protective barrier. Harsh ingredients, such as those found in regular dishwashing liquid can often strip your car of its wax sealant which exposes it more to the elements.
Other than regular washes, you should also take care to wax your car to enhance its protection against the elements. Many products offer a combined wash and wax action which saves you the time and money of buying and applying several products.
Regardless of your specific needs, our list of top rated products can address every car owner’s concerns and pocket.
Criteria Used In Evaluation Of The Best Car Wash Soaps
Gentle pH Balance
Using a general soap, such a dishwashing liquid can do irreparable harm to your car’s exterior. General soaps do not provide for caring for your car’s delicate wax sealant and often strips it of its protective barrier. You should choose a soap specifically created for washing cars. The formula itself should contain a variety of gentle, non-abrasive ingredients that can still effectively clean your car.
A neutral pH balance will also ensure that the soap itself does not leave any acidic residue on your car after the wash. Any reputable and best car wash soap will have a neutral pH balance and will clearly state this information on their bottle or website. If your chosen soap does not state its pH balance, do some research online before purchasing it.
Amount of Foam
When washing your car, you’re looking for a soap that creates plenty of foam once it’s mixed with water. Foam can be an essential part of the cleaning process since a rich foam will lift dirt and grease off your vehicle with much more ease. This means that you won’t have to spend hours scrubbing your car and potentially leave a scratch in the process.
Concentrated car wash soap formulas are especially ideal for creating loads of foam. The formulas intense concentration means that you’ll need a lot less soap to get that rich lather needed for an effective wash. Some formulas promise plenty of foam, but sometimes fail to deliver on their promise. Experiment to find the formula that provides the right amount of foam for you. For extra foam, considering investing in a foam gun.
Lubricity
Lubricity refers to just how slippery a soap is. Much like, foam, lubricity is an essential factor to consider when choosing a soap. A high amount of lubricity will translate to an easier cleaning process. A slippery soap, like foam, helps to loosen dirt and grime off of your car with more ease, which once again means less effort on your part.
Moreover, a high lubricity will make the soap easier to rinse off and less likely to leave streaks or other residues on your car. Like foam, the best way to find a slippery soap is to read reviews online and simply to experiment to find the formula that suits you best.
Biodegradable
Choosing a biodegradable and best car wash soap may seem like an inessential factor reserved for the environmentally cautious. However, since you wash your car outside in the immediate vicinity of grassy areas, a biodegradable soap should be one of your most immediate concerns.
A biodegradable formula is an important factor to consider since this will determine whether or not the residual soap could harm your lawn or stain your driveway. A biodegradable formula will break down easily and will not leave a soapy mess on your lawn and cause subsequent damage to your grass and soil.
To find a biodegradable soap, simply read the soap’s product description or bottle before buying it. If you’re still unsure whether the product is biodegradable, you can check online or ask the salesperson about this concern.
Protection
A best car wash soap can do much more for you than simply clean your car. The best car wash soap from a reputable manufacturer has the power to add a layer of protection to your car’s exterior. This is ideal for drivers who live in harsh climates.
Consider how much protection you require from your soap. Certain products provide a shield against rain and help water to bead on your car. Other protects boast an added wax to add a layer of general protection against external elements such as harsh weather conditions and salt added to roads.
Formula concentration
Your chosen formula’s concentration will largely depend on how dirty your car is as well as your personal preference and budget.
Non-concentrated formulas are often cheaper than their concentrated counterparts. However, non-concentrated formulas often require a lot of soap to generate a modest amount of foam. If your product does not generate enough foam, it could take you much longer to wash your car.
Concentrated formulas in comparison are more expensive but tend to last longer. Concentrated formulas mean that you use a small amount of soap to get a decent amount of foam. This results in a quicker cleaning process.
A concentrated formula is often a more powerful cleaning agent than regular soaps. Therefore a concentrated formula is recommended for driver’s who require a heavy-duty cleaning soap. However, regular formulas remain a great and cost-effective option for drivers who live in a mild climate and only require a soap for general cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a car wash soap?
A: A car wash soap is a cleaning agent specifically designed to clean and protect your car. The ingredients in the best car wash soap have been carefully selected to clean your car without damaging its exterior and to enhance its appearance.
Q: Can I use a regular household soap?
A: No. Regular household soaps such as dishwashing liquid are too harsh to use for washing your car. Household soaps contain acidic or abrasive ingredients that can strip your car of its protective wax sealant. With prolonged use, general household soaps can damage your car’s paint and its metal body.
Q: How often should I wash my car?
A: Experts recommend washing your car once a week for optimum car health. Regular washes are important to protect your car’s exterior and can greatly add to your car’s performance. Moreover, regular washes will enhance your car’s value over time.
Consider washing your car more often if you do live in an area where your car gets dirty quicker, such as sandy or muddy areas.
Q: How much soap do I need to use per single wash?
A: This really depends on which of the best car wash soap you use. To get the best results, you should follow the instructions on the bottle. Concentrated formulas will require less soap per gallon of water used compared to regular non-concentrated formulas.
Your diluted soap mixture should be very foamy and be able to lift dirt and grease off your car with ease. If your soap mixture feels inadequate, feel free to add a little bit more soap until you find your desired soap to water ratio.
Q: How do I wash my car?
A: Before washing your car you should ensure that your car is parked in a shaded area. Washing the car in direct sunlight could cause soap to dry quickly and leave streaks and grease behind that is difficult to remove. If you are unable to wash your car in a shaded area, be sure to frequently hose down your car so that the surface stays wet.
After parking your car in a shaded area. Hose down your car to remove all loose dirt and pieces of debris. You should then continue with the washing method that you feel most comfortable with.
If using the two-bucket wash method, you should fill one bucket with clean water and the second with your soap solution. Start at the top of your car and using a soft mitt of washing cloth, wash the car using your soap solution. Use the second bucket of water for rinsing.
If you are using a foam gun you should fill your machine’s reservoir with soap and water and then continue to wash your car using the foam gun.
After washing your car, you should not forget to clean the tyres and beneath your car before drying.
Q: Which technique is better for washing my car with the best car wash soap?
A: Both techniques work well and depend on your preference and available gear. The two-bucket method is great for people who prefer having more control over the physical washing process. However, foam guns are somewhat more efficient since they create a richer foam which translates to quicker and easier washing.
However, a foam gun is not essential for a good car wash. You can just as easily get a clean car from using the more traditional bucket method.
Q: Is the best car wash soap safe to use on matte or enamel finishes?
A: Most car wash soaps from reputable manufactures should be gentle enough to use on special finishes such as matte or enamel. The best car wash soap will not damage your car’s finish or detailing in any way.
If this does concern you, look for a product that has a neutral pH balance these soaps don’t contain any acidity which could potentially have an abrasive effect on your car’s finish.
Q: Can the added wax in the best car wash soap leave a greasy residue?
A: Certain products that claim to act as a dual wash and wax agent, the added wax often undermines the product’s cleaning capabilities. This often leads to a greasy residue and streaks left behind on your car after rinsing. If you are looking for a car wash that also acts as a wax, be sure to always buy a good quality soap from a reputable manufacturer where the ingredients are balanced to prevent any greasy film or streaks.
Also make sure to wash your car in the shade, to keep it wet while washing, and to dry it properly after rinsing. This will ensure a streak-free finish.
Q: Can I use the best car wash soap on the interior or my car?
A: Since car wash soaps have been formulated to be very gentle, they are safe enough to use on the interior of your car. You can safely use your diluted car soap formula and a soft cloth or chamois to gently clean fixtures on the inside of your car. Be sure to vacuum your car before cleaning it with your soap solution.
Q: What equipment do I need to wash my car besides the best car wash soap?
A: The equipment you need to clean your car will largely depend on which method you decide to use.
For the two-bucket washing method, you’ll need a hose, two large buckets, your best car wash soap, two separate sponges or soft cleaning cloths, a wheel brush, and a towel for drying.
For the foam gun method, you’ll need soap, water, your foam gun, a hose, and a towel for drying.
Additional equipment you may need for either method includes a wheel brush, vacuum for the interior, glass cleaner, squeegee, and any additional products you may need such as wax, etc.
Q: How do I dry the car after washing it?
A: Use a soft towel or chamois cloth to gently dry off residual water after the wash. Instead of rubbing harshly over your car’s exterior, use the towel or chamois to gently pat your car dry. Take care to dry your car gently to prevent any accidental scratches.
Air drying is not an efficient drying method since this can leave streaks or water spots on your car. Take the time to manually dry your car instead.
Q: Can I use other car care products in addition to the best car wash soap?
A: Yes, you can! Even though several products contain added wax, you can still add your own wax product after washing your car. Other products you can use include dashboard and trim cleaners, glass cleaners, and special products to clean up your rims.
When buying additional products, make sure that the ingredients in the best car wash soap respond well to the ingredients in your added products. The best way to do this is to buy products from the same manufacturer.
Q: Do I need to use a wax separately if my soap already contains a wax?
A: This really depends on the kind of product you use. Generally speaking, soaps which contain added waxes or polymers are great for a quick wash and wax but are not a long-term solution. If you are using a combined wash and wax product, you should be prepared to use an additional wax every few washes just to ensure that your car’s protective wax sealant remains in place.
When choosing a wax, try buying a wax from the same manufacturer as your car soap. Often their products have been designed to work together.
Sources
- Meineke – Can You Use Dish Soap to Wash A Car?
- WikiHow – The Best Ways to Wash a Car By Hand
- Chemical Guys – Soaps & Car Wash Products
