(Nairobi) – In Nairobi, car washes are more than just a service; they are a symbol of wealth and social status. Located in various parts of the city, especially in areas like Kileleshwa, these makeshift car wash stations cater to a growing demand from drivers, particularly those working in rideshare services. The car wash has become an essential stop for drivers, who see it as an integral part of their daily routine, contributing to both the upkeep of their vehicles and the presentation of their personal and professional image.
The Kileleshwa district is home to one of these informal car wash stations, where cars are washed from dawn until dusk. With each vehicle, workers perform tasks such as scrubbing rims, shampooing bodywork, and polishing the car in the “drying zone.” The price for a standard exterior and interior clean is only 150 shillings (around €1.07), which makes the service affordable and popular, especially with rideshare drivers who maintain a high level of cleanliness in their cars. Patrick Sabula, the chairman of the car wash cooperative, notes that “98% of rideshare drivers” are regular customers, underscoring the importance of maintaining a clean vehicle for business.
For drivers like Ian Thuo, an Uber driver who has been in the business for four years, the car wash is an essential part of his routine. “It’s my mobile office,” he says, explaining that the dust in the city can quickly make his car look dirty. On rainy days, Thuo even visits the car wash twice a day to keep his sedan looking pristine. The car wash, in this sense, serves not only as a practical service but also as a way to maintain a professional image, reflecting the increasing importance of private transport apps in the city’s daily life.
The rise in car wash stations in Nairobi is linked to the growth of private car ownership, which has become a sign of social status, particularly among the expanding middle class. Since the 2000s, owning a private car has been increasingly seen as a way to avoid the inefficiencies, crowds, and risks of public transportation. This growing middle class, along with the availability of affordable used cars, has driven the demand for car washes. Economist XN Iraki explains that while lower-income groups have been able to afford used vehicles, wealthier individuals tend to purchase larger, more luxurious cars, further fueling the demand for specialized services like car washes.
The variety of car washes in Nairobi caters to different tastes and budgets. While some are basic stations with water drawn from a murky river, others are more high-end, featuring automatic washing systems. In line with this, the experience of getting a car washed has expanded beyond just the cleaning service. Many car wash stations now include restaurants, ranging from traditional tin-roofed eateries to upscale cafés serving specialty coffee and gourmet food. These establishments have become popular spots for socializing, where people can enjoy lunch with friends or relax after getting their cars cleaned.
The rise of car washes in Nairobi illustrates a larger trend of economic growth and changing social dynamics in the city. As the demand for private cars continues to rise, so does the demand for specialized services that cater to the evolving tastes and needs of Nairobi’s residents. The car wash, once a simple service, has now become an integral part of life in the city, symbolizing both wealth and the growing sophistication of its middle class.