Why Car Washing Can Harm Our Streams — and How You Can Help

Did you know that washing your car in your driveway or on a paved surface can seriously harm our local environment? 

When cars are washed at home on pavement, the dirty, soapy water doesn’t just disappear - it flows into the street, down storm drains, and directly into our streams and lakes. This runoff carries harmful pollutants like detergents (including biodegradable soaps), oils, dirt, heavy metals, and excess nutrients that can damage aquatic plant life, harm fish, and degrade overall water quality. 

Here’s how you can help protect our waterways: 

Choose a Commercial Car Wash Professional car washes are designed to capture and treat dirty water. Many facilities even recycle their wash water, using it several times before it's sent to the sewer system for proper treatment. It's the best option for both your car and the environment! 

If You Wash at Home, Do It the Right Way 
If a commercial car wash isn’t an option, wash your car on your lawn or over gravel or other vegetated surfaces. These natural filters help absorb and break down pollutants before they reach storm drains. Also, be sure to pour leftover soapy water down the sink - not into the street or storm drain! 

Together, we can keep Sammamish’s waters clean and healthy for everyone! 

Learn more at: www.sammamish.us/help-keep-clean.