DIY car wash solutions

Check out these tips on how to get the grime off of your car with things you're likely to already have at home. Solutions (some literal) to your cleaning problems, without an additional cost.

Prepare in advance for your next few car washes by making your own condensed cleaner base. Pour 50 grams (1/2 cup) of baking soda into a gallon-size jug, then add 50 millilitres (1/4 cup) of dishwashing liquid and enough water to fill the jug almost to the top. Screw on the cap, shake well and store the concentrate for later use. When it comes time to wash the car, shake the jug vigorously and then pour 250 millilitres (one cup) of the cleaner base into a water pail. Fill the pail with warm water, stir to mix and your homemade cleaning solution is ready to use.

Add 250 millilitres (one cup) of kerosene to a pail filled with water and then sponge the solution over your car. You won't have to spray the car before washing or rinsing or waxing it once you're done. And the next time it rains, rainwater will bead up and roll off the car, lessening the likelihood of rusting.

Wash your car with a hair conditioner containing lanolin. You'll become a believer when you see the freshly waxed look and when you find that the surface will repel rain.

In many rural areas, so-called oil roads (some unpaved, others semi-paved) are sprayed with oil to control blowing sand and dust. If you find yourself driving along one of these back roads, your windshield may end up coated with oily grime. To cut through the muck, sprinkle cream of tartar over the windshield and then wipe the glass down with soapy water, rinse well, and dry.

Keep your headlights polished (and yourself, safe) by applying window cleaner and rubbing vigorously with an old pair of panty hose.

You're going to love how your car shines when you're done using your homemade car wash — and you'll have the best-looking set of wheels on the block!