PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mar 19, 2026--
Tomorrow is the first day of Spring and as warmer temperatures return and flowers begin to bloom, so does one of spring’s most notorious nuisances—pollen. While many Americans focus on managing seasonal allergies, vehicle owners should also take steps to protect their vehicle from the effects of heavy pollen buildup. During peak pollen season, vehicles can quickly become coated in a fine yellow or green layer of pollen, posing damaging risks to your paint job.
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“Though pollen may seem harmless, it can cling to vehicle surfaces, trap moisture, and contribute to paint damage if left unattended for extended periods,” said Pete Nani, CEO, ZIPS Car Wash. “We’re seeing high tree pollen counts from Dallas all the way to Myrtle Beach and many areas in between, making it imperative to follow these tips from our long-time car washing experts to protect your vehicle this spring.”
Simple Ways to Protect Your Vehicle During Pollen Season
“A few simple habits can help drivers keep their vehicles clean and protected throughout the spring,” said Craig Farina, VP of Facilities, ZIPS Car Wash. “Pollen grains are small but surprisingly abrasive and when mixed with morning dew or rain, pollen can form a sticky film that adheres to the paint, glass, and trim of your vehicle. If wiped off while dry, it can create micro-scratches in the clear coat. Over time, repeated exposure without proper cleaning can dull a vehicle’s finish and reduce its overall appearance,” he added. “We encourage you to take advantage of our express tunnel services and follow these tips to protect your vehicle.”
1. Wash Your Vehicle More Frequently: Regular washing removes pollen before it bonds with moisture and debris. A quick rinse or express wash every 5–7 days during peak pollen periods can prevent buildup.
2. Avoid Dry Wiping Pollen Off Your Car: Brushing or wiping pollen off with a dry cloth can grind particles into the paint. Instead, rinse the surface with water or use a professional car wash that applies pre-wash prep to your vehicle to safely remove pollen.
3. Use an Express Car Wash After High-Pollen Days: After windy days, storms, or when visible pollen buildup occurs, an express car wash is one of the fastest ways to remove pollen from your vehicle’s surface, wheels, and undercarriage.
4. Protect Your Paint with Wax or Sealant: A protective wax or paint sealant helps create a barrier that makes pollen easier to wash away and prevents it from sticking to the paint. Choose ZIPS Pro or Premier wash for the longest lasting effects.
5. Don’t Forget the Interior: Pollen can enter vehicles through vents, open doors, and clothing. Regularly vacuuming floor mats and wiping interior surfaces can help keep the cabin cleaner and more comfortable for you and your passengers. ZIPS complimentary turbo vacs make clean up fast and easy.
Why Express Car Washes are an Easy, Fast Solution
Express washes are designed to quickly and safely remove pollen, dust, and debris without requiring drivers to spend significant time cleaning their vehicles themselves. For vehicle owners, staying ahead of pollen season is as simple as making regular car washes part of their spring routine. ZIPS has made it easy and budget friendly with the new ZIPS Basic Unlimited ® Wash Plan. Now, get your car washed every day for just $20/month or make your existing membership a Family Plan so every car in your family shines.
ZIPS Car Wash is celebrating National Car Wash Day, Saturday, March 28 th, with free detailing kits for the first 50 customers at every ZIPS location. Make plans to celebrate at your nearest ZIPS.
Before you get your vehicle cleaned up, submit a photo of your dirty vehicle to ZIPS Car Wash to enter to win prizes in the Dirty Car Photo Sweepstakes now through March 31. Submit your photo today.
About ZIPS Car Wash
ZIPS Car Wash, headquartered in Plano, Texas, is a privately held car wash operator, with over 200 locations across 20 states under three brands: ZIPS Car Wash, Rocket Express Car Wash, and Jet Brite Car Wash. With over 20 years of car washing experience, ZIPS prides itself on providing the highest quality express tunnel car wash in the industry. ZIPS uses the latest industry technology to provide a clean, dry, and shiny vehicle, exceptional customer experiences and value through loyalty rewards in the innovative ZIPS Car Wash mobile app. The ZIPS team aims to positively impact the communities we live and serve in through key partnerships with schools, military non-profit organizations and community leaders. In 2025, ZIPS Car Wash was recognized by Newsweek as a “Best of the Best” and “Best in Customer Service” award recipient. To learn more about our growing express car wash, visitwww.zipscarwash.com.
ZIPS is the Official Car Wash of Pollen Season and ready to serve you at more than 200 locations across the country.
