When one's car is in need of a good washing, most of us forget how damaging soaps and other chemicals can be to the environment and even to our vehicles. Detergents and spray-on waxes create surface build-up on your vehicle and allow for the sun to literally bake the surface. Detergents also cause rubber parts and vinyl accessories to become brittle and less pliable and may also be harmful to paint finishes, causing a vunerability to the effects of the weather. For cleaning your car, both inside and out, all you need is a sponge or cloth, a bucket, and a hose with a tight sealed nozzle. Think about it. How clean can you get your vehicle before it's time to do it again? Where does the water go after it cascades off your car? As long as you refrain from using chemically-based products, strategically placing your vehicle where the excess water can benefit your lawn or the plants nearby is a worthwhile routine. For example, by installing a rain garden or a dry stream adjacent to this area, water can be channeled and used yet again in surrounding plant beds.

Getting out of the sun is often essential at this time of year unless you're enjoying a swim, or sunbathing. Why not create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere for that respite from the heat? If you don't already have a spot in your yard such as this, here's what to do: