Best Snow Foam 2023: Alkaline Car Wash
When it comes to car detailing, achieving a flawless, head-turning shine is the ultimate goal. One step in achieving such a goal is a car paint deep cleaning, which helps us to remove all contaminants from car paint. Here is where the best snow foam comes into a game.
When you wash your car, you should not forget about a Pre-Wash. One of the most popular Pre-Wash solutions is Snow foam. They are our best helpers in removing organic contaminants.
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In this post we will dive deeper into understanding Snow Foams, what they mean, how and when should you use them, and what are the best low-alkaline and high-alkaline Snow Foams for 2023.
If you are not sure what is a Pre-Wash or what type of Pre-Wash you need, check our post about Best Car Pre-Wash, by clicking on the highlighted text.
What is Snow Foam?
Snow Foam – is a type of car wash shampoo or soap with low-alkaline or high-alkaline pH level, formulated for deep Pre-Wash and removal of stubborn dirt, grime, and organic contaminants. They are an antipode of Acid car wash shampoos that have a pH level lower than 7. Usually, Snow Foam is a marketing name for Alkaline shampoos. Some types of Snow Foam shampoos are called pH-neutral, but in fact, they are just slightly alkaline.
Normally, car wash shampoos with pH-level higher than pH 9-10 are not good for regular use, as they can remove wax or sealant coatings, and can be harmful to your car paint, plastic, or rubber trim. Such shampoos are perfect for the removal of stubborn dirt and contaminants, when your car actually needs it, or when you are making a car paint deep cleaning and preparing your car for protective coatings application.
How Dilution changes the pH level of Alkaline Shampoo?
Each tenfold dilution changes the pH-Level by approximately 1 level towards neutral. For example, if your shampoo has a pH level of 12, and you dilute it at 1:10, the pH level will become ~11, dilution at 1:100, will make it ~10 pH. Such calculations cannot be 100% accurate, as the pH levels of the mixture can vary on temperature and the pH level of water you use to dilute.
I asked every car care company you can see in this post about the pH level of their product after recommended dilution. For those who answered, I added their measurement to the description of the shampoo below. For those who don’t have such information, you can calculate using the method I explained above.
Benefits of Alkaline Snow Foam
Superior Cleaning Power for Stubborn Contaminants
Snow Foam is well-known for its exceptional cleaning power. It is particularly effective in tackling tough contaminants such as road grime, grease, oil, and insect remains. The alkaline formulation helps to break down and dissolve these stubborn substances, leaving your car’s surface remarkably clean and ready for further detailing steps. Alkaline shampoos are best for removing organic contaminants.
Versatility for Different Surfaces
One of the critical advantages of Snow Foam is its versatility. You can use it on various exterior surfaces, including paintwork, glass, wheels, and plastic trim. This versatility allows you to streamline your car detailing process by using a single product that can effectively clean multiple areas of your vehicle.
Time-Saving Application
Alkaline car wash shampoos typically require less dwell time compared to pH-neutral shampoos. The powerful cleaning agents work quickly to penetrate and loosen dirt and grime, reducing the overall time needed for the pre-wash stage. This can be especially beneficial if you have a busy schedule or want to optimize your detailing process.
Drawbacks of Alkaline Snow Foam
Potential Paintwork Sensitivity
While alkaline Snow Foam is generally safe for most vehicles, there is a slight risk of paintwork sensitivity. The powerful cleaning agents in alkaline formulas can, in rare cases, affect certain types of paint finishes or delicate surfaces. It is important to test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire vehicle to ensure compatibility. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s precautions and instructions especially when using high-alkaline snow foam!
Environmental Impact
Snow Foam typically contains strong chemical ingredients that can have an environmental impact. These chemicals may not be eco-friendly and can contribute to water pollution if not properly managed. Still, there are some high-quality alkaline shampoos that are eco-friendly. To mitigate this drawback, it is advisable to choose alkaline snow foams that are biodegradable or have low environmental impact certifications.
Potential for Drying Out Plastic Trim
Due to its strong cleaning properties, alkaline snow foam can potentially dry out plastic trim if left on the surface for an extended period or used incorrectly. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure that the foam is rinsed off thoroughly to prevent any adverse effects on plastic or rubber components.
Best Low-Alkaline Snow Foam 2023
I will mention here the pH levels of Snow Foams that are provided by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that these pH levels are for undiluted shampoo. After dilution pH will decrease on 1-3 levels.
CARPRO Lift Snow Foam (pH 10~11)
CARPRO Lift Snow Foam is a high-quality alkaline-based snow foam concentrate designed for effective pre-washing and cleaning of vehicles. Lift Snow Foam is specifically formulated to tackle tough contaminants such as road grime, grease, bugs, and oil. The foam composition ensures optimal foaming, allowing the cleaning agents to penetrate and dissolve stubborn grime.
CARPRO Lift Snow Foam has the punch of an all-purpose cleaner, which means it will strip waxes and some sealants, but its formula is safe for CQUARTZ ceramic coatings.
Based on CARPRO’s answer, after recommended dilution ratio of 1:10, the level of pH technically lowers, but just barely. They don’t have exact measures.
Application method
- pump foam sprayers
- foam cannons
- foam guns
Dilution Ratio
Recommended dilution ratio: 1:10
Price
Meguiar’s Ultimate Snow Foam Xtreme Cling Wash (pH 9.5-10.5)
It is a popular Snow Foam among car enthusiasts designed to provide superior cleaning and foam clinging abilities. Snow Foam Xtreme effectively removes dirt, grime, and contaminants, and you can use it on various surfaces, including paintwork, glass, and wheels, delivering a thorough and efficient cleaning experience. Meguiar’s Ultimate Snow Foam is formulated to be safe on coated, waxed, or sealed finishes.
Based on Meguiar’s answer, they do not have pH levels for products after being diluted as they would vary based on the pH level of the water that you are using.
Application method
- foam cannons
- foam guns
Dilution Ratio
Recommended dilution ratio: 1:5
Price
Adam’s Foam 01 (pH 8-9)
Foam 01 is a first step Snow Foam from a well-known car care company Adam’s Polishes. It is specifically crafted to provide a thick and clinging foam that effectively dissolves Road Films, Dirt, Grime, Bugs, and Carbon Build-Up. Foam 01 is safe for use on various exterior car surfaces, but can strip waxes and sealants.
Another benefit of Foam 01 is the ease of use. You can add this shampoo directly to your foam gun, or attach the Foam 01 bottle directly to Adam’s Foam Gun or Cannon, and use it on your vehicle. One bottle of product is enough to foam one vehicle at a time.
Application method
- foam cannons
- foam guns
Dilution Ratio
The product is Ready-to-Use
Price
Best High-Alkaline Snow Foam 2023
Bilt Hamber Touch-less (pH ~12)
Bilt Hamber is a comparable new car care company from the UK, but they have what to offer. Touch-less is a sugar-based snow-foam pre-wash, that provides an effective removal of dirt, grime, bugs, and other contaminants. Above this, it contains corrosion inhibitors. The product is easy-to-rinse but can strip waxes or sealants.
Based on Bilt Hamber’s answer, after recommended dilution ratio of 1:25, the level of pH goes down to ~8-9 depending on water quality.
Application method
- trigger sprayer
- pump foam sprayer
- foam cannons
- foam guns
Dilution Ratio
Recommended dilution ratio: 1:25
Price
KochChemie Sfn Super Foam (pH 12)
KochChemie is a well-known, among professional detailers and enthusiasts, German car care company. The Sfn is a concentrated alkaline shampoo that you can use for self-service car wash, or with foam gun. Sfn is an extremely foamy alkaline active shampoo with a fruity aroma. The product effectively removes road grime, grease, bugs, and oil from your vehicle, and can easily be rinsed off.
Based on KochChemie’s answer, after recommended dilution ratio of 1:50, the level of pH goes down to ~10-11.
Application method
- for professional use: self-service car washes
- foam guns
Dilution Ratio
Recommended dilution ratio for foam gun: 1:50 – 1:100
Price
Precautions when using Alkaline Shampoos
1. Read and Follow Product Instructions
Pretty easy step, but some car wash shampoos can be concentrated and high-alkaline, which can harm you and your car’s surface if used improperly. That is why always check the manufacturer’s instructions, or advise professionals before using the product.
2. Perform a Spot Test
To avoid any adverse reactions or unwanted effects, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of your vehicle. Apply a small amount of the alkaline car wash shampoo, allow it to dwell for the recommended time, and rinse thoroughly. This test will help you ensure compatibility with your vehicle’s paintwork, plastic trims, and other surfaces.
3. Avoid Hot Surfaces and In-Direct Sun application
Never apply alkaline car wash shampoo to hot surfaces or under direct sunlight. High temperatures can cause the shampoo to dry quickly, potentially leaving behind residue or stains. It’s best to wash your vehicle in a shaded area or during cooler parts of the day to ensure the shampoo’s effectiveness and prevent any damage to your vehicle’s finish.
4. Wear Protective Gear
When working with alkaline car wash shampoos, it’s important to protect yourself as well. Wear gloves to prevent any skin irritation or chemical contact. Additionally, use eye protection to shield your eyes from potential splashes or accidental contact. Safety should always be a priority when handling cleaning products.
5. Rinse Thoroughly
Make sure to rinse your vehicle thoroughly after applying alkaline car wash shampoos. Leaving any residue behind can potentially damage the paintwork or other surfaces over time.
6. Properly Dispose of Wash Water
Always check if the product you are using is eco-friendly, and if there are any local regulations about the disposal of chemicals. If the car wash soap you are using is not eco-friendly, avoid allowing the soapy water to enter storm drains or natural water sources, as alkaline substances can be harmful to aquatic life. Instead, dispose of the wash water in a designated drain or a facility that can handle the proper treatment.
Conclusion. Best Snow Foam
Snow Foam, or alkaline shampoos gives us an incredible cleaning solution for the removal of road fils, oils, bugs, and stubborn dirt. Using such shampoos is perfect for preparing your car for applying waxes and removal of contaminants. It allows us to get a better shine and prolong the paint’s lifespan.
However, don’t forget that the majority of Snow Foam, is alkaline or slightly alkaline, which means we should not use them on a regular basis. If your car has a wax coating and you don’t want to remove it, alkaline shampoos are not the perfect option for you, better choose pH-neutral shampoos. The same goes with slightly dirty cars, you don’t the whole cleaning power of Snow Foam when your car is just a bit dusty.
Keep in mind that working with alkaline shampoos can be harmful to you and your car’s surface. Because of that, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and wear protective gear.
By understanding the benefits and limitations of alkaline snow foam, you can make an informed decision and choose the best Snow Foam that aligns with your car detailing goals and values.
Keep your car clean using high-quality and best Snow Foam, and leave your questions or comments on our Twitter page.
