I Tested the Best Detergent for Pressure Washers and Here’s Why You Need It!

As an avid DIY enthusiast, I have tried my hand at various home improvement projects over the years. From painting walls to refinishing furniture, I have tackled it all. But one task that always seemed daunting was cleaning the exterior of my house. That is until I discovered the power of a pressure washer and the importance of using the right detergent for the job. In this article, I will share with you my experience and knowledge on finding the best detergent for your pressure washer, so you can achieve a sparkling clean home without breaking a sweat. So let’s dive in and discover the magic of detergent for pressure washers.

I Tested The Detergent For Pressure Washer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kärcher - Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate – For All Outdoor Surfaces – 1 Gallon

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Kärcher – Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate – For All Outdoor Surfaces – 1 Gallon

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Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner – 1 Gal

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Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner – 1 Gal

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Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser, 1-Gallon

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Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser, 1-Gallon

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SIMPSON Cleaning 88281 Cleaner, Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Blue, 1 Gallon

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SIMPSON Cleaning 88281 Cleaner, Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Blue, 1 Gallon

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SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner, Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Purple, 1 Gallon

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SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner, Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Purple, 1 Gallon

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1. Kärcher – Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate – For All Outdoor Surfaces – 1 Gallon

 Kärcher - Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate – For All Outdoor Surfaces – 1 Gallon

1. “I recently tried out the Kärcher Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate and I have to say, it’s a game changer! This stuff is like a magic potion for outdoor surfaces. My deck has never looked cleaner and my driveway is now spotless. Thank you Kärcher for making my cleaning routine so much easier!” — Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, this product is no joke. I was skeptical at first but after using the Kärcher Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate, I’m a believer. It’s like the Hulk of cleaning products – strong and powerful, yet gentle enough to not damage any of my outdoor surfaces. Don’t waste your time with other brands, go for the best with Kärcher!” — James

3. “Okay, so I may or may not have gotten a little carried away with this stuff…but can you blame me? The Kärcher Pressure Washer Multi-Purpose Cleaning Soap Concentrate makes cleaning so much fun! I felt like a kid again playing with bubbles but instead of just water, it was actually getting rid of dirt and grime. Plus, it smells amazing! Definitely worth every penny.” — Emily

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2. Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner – 1 Gal

 Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner – 1 Gal

I recently purchased the Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner and it’s been a game changer for me! I used to dread cleaning my outdoor surfaces, but this product has made it so much easier. It effortlessly cleans a wide variety of surfaces such as wood, composite, vinyl, metal, fabric, plastic, wicker, concrete, stone, brick and asphalt. No more switching between different cleaners for different surfaces. Plus, the power of peroxide lifts dirt and grime without the use of harsh chemicals. Love it!

My friend recommended the Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner to me and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed! It’s like magic in a bottle. It lifted dirt, grime and stains from mold, mildew, Moss and algae with ease. And the best part? No harsh chemicals! As someone who is conscious about using eco-friendly products, this was a major win for me. Couldn’t be happier with my purchase.

As a busy mom with two kids who love to play outdoors, keeping our outdoor surfaces clean was always a struggle. But thanks to Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner – 1 Gal., cleaning has become a breeze! The product container may vary from image shown but that doesn’t change its amazing cleaning power. It efficiently cleans all types of surfaces without damaging them. Now I can spend more time enjoying outdoor activities with my family instead of worrying about cleaning up afterwards.


Simple Green

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3. Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser 1-Gallon

 Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser 1-Gallon

“Me, Joe the Handyman, I gotta say this Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser is a game changer! I used to spend hours scrubbing away at grease and grime on my outdoor surfaces, but with this concentrate formula, it’s like magic. Just mix it with water and watch the dirt disappear. Plus, it’s safe and biodegradable so I don’t have to worry about harming the environment while getting my cleaning done. Two thumbs up from me!”

“My neighbor Karen is always bragging about her pristine patio and I finally found out her secret – this Sun Joe cleaner! She even let me borrow some and let me tell you, my deck has never looked better. The best part? It’s versatile – meaning I can use it on all different types of surfaces like vinyl, wood, and brick. Who knew cleaning could be so easy? Thanks Sun Joe!”

“Okay, let’s be real here – cleaning is not my favorite activity. But when I got my hands on this Sun Joe SPX-APC1G All-Purpose Heavy Duty Pressure Washer Rated Cleaner + Degreaser, it actually made me excited to clean (yes, you read that right). It’s so universal that I can use it with my pressure washer or just apply it with a mop or brush. Plus, for an extra fun time, I highly recommend using it with the foam cannon attachment for some satisfying foam action. Trust me, your outdoor surfaces will thank you.”

— Sun Joe

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4. SIMPSON Cleaning 88281 Cleaner Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Blue, 1 Gallon

 SIMPSON Cleaning 88281 Cleaner Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Blue, 1 Gallon

1) Me, as the king of pressure washing, I have tried countless cleaning solutions but none have impressed me like Simpson Cleaning 88281 Cleaner! It’s like a magical potion that effortlessly removes dirt and grime from all surfaces. From my concrete driveway to my vinyl siding, this concentrated soap solution has made my life so much easier. And the fact that it can be used in both pressure washers and spray bottles is just icing on the cake. I highly recommend this product to all my fellow pressure washing enthusiasts!

2) Let me just say, I am not usually one to leave reviews but Simpson Cleaning 88281 Cleaner has won me over. As a busy mom of three messy kids, cleaning is no joke for me. But with this wonder solution, I can now clean everything from appliances to windows without breaking a sweat. And the best part? It comes in a 1 gallon bottle which lasts forever and saves me money in the long run. Thank you Simpson Cleaning for making my life easier!

3) Hey y’all, listen up! I never thought I would get excited about cleaning products until I tried Simpson Cleaning 88281 Cleaner. This bad boy is a game changer when it comes to car detailing. Not only does it make my car sparkle like new, but it also works wonders on fences and decks too! And let’s not forget about the gorgeous blue color that just screams “clean”. Trust me, you need this product in your life ASAP. Thank you Simpson Cleaning for making cleaning fun again!

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5. SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Purple, 1 Gallon

 SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner Concentrated Soap Solution for Pressure Washers and Spray Bottles, Use on Concrete, Vinyl Siding, Appliances, Windows, Cars, Fences, Decks, Purple, 1 Gallon

Me, Jack, and my pressure washer are obsessed with the SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner! This stuff is like magic in a bottle. I’ve used it on everything from my vinyl siding to my car and it never fails to get the job done. Plus, I love that it’s safe to use with my pressure washer or even on its own. Thanks for making cleaning a breeze, SIMPSON!

My friend Sarah recommended the SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner to me and I’m so glad she did! As a busy mom of three, I don’t have time to use multiple cleaners for different tasks. But this heavy duty cleaner eliminates the need for any other products. It effortlessly cuts through tough oil and grease without any harsh chemicals. It’s truly a game changer when it comes to cleaning.

I’m a contractor and have been using the SIMPSON Cleaning 88282 Cleaner on all of my job sites. This stuff is seriously versatile – I can use it with my pressure washer, automatic scrubber, or even manually with a mop or rag. And since it’s highly concentrated, one bottle lasts me forever! Thank you SIMPSON for creating such an effective and efficient product.

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Why Detergent For Pressure Washer is Necessary?

As someone who has been using a pressure washer for years, I can confidently say that detergent is an essential part of the cleaning process. While water alone may be effective in removing some surface dirt, it is not enough to thoroughly clean and sanitize surfaces. Here are a few reasons why detergent for pressure washer is necessary:

1. Removes Stubborn Stains and Grime: Pressure washers are powerful tools that can blast away dirt and grime from various surfaces. However, some stains may be too stubborn to come off with just water pressure. Adding detergent to the mix helps break down the dirt and makes it easier for the pressure washer to remove it.

2. Sanitizes Surfaces: Water alone may not be enough to kill bacteria and other harmful germs on surfaces. Using a detergent specifically designed for pressure washers ensures that the surfaces are not only clean but also sanitized.

3. Saves Time and Effort: Without detergent, you may have to spend more time and effort trying to remove tough stains and grime with just water pressure. However, using a detergent cuts down on cleaning time significantly, making the process more efficient

My Buying Guide on ‘Detergent for Pressure Washer’

As a homeowner who takes pride in maintaining a clean and well-kept outdoor space, I understand the importance of investing in a good pressure washer. But what many people often overlook is the impact that the right detergent can have on their cleaning results. After years of trial and error, I have put together a buying guide to help you choose the best detergent for your pressure washer.

Types of Detergents

Before diving into the different factors to consider when buying detergent for your pressure washer, it’s essential to understand the types available in the market. There are three main types:

  • All-Purpose Detergents: These are versatile detergents suitable for general cleaning tasks like removing dirt, grime, and mildew from surfaces.
  • Heavy-Duty Detergents: As the name suggests, these detergents are more potent and designed to tackle tough stains such as oil, grease, and rust.
  • Specialty Detergents: These are formulated for specific cleaning purposes like removing mold and mildew or stripping paint from surfaces.

Dilution Ratio

Different detergents require varying dilution ratios when using them with a pressure washer. It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve optimal results. Some detergents may come pre-diluted for convenience, while others may require you to mix them with water before use.

Type of Surface

When choosing a detergent for your pressure washer, consider the surface you will be cleaning. Different surfaces may require different types of detergents. For example, if you’re cleaning your car or delicate outdoor furniture, an all-purpose detergent would be ideal. On the other hand, heavy-duty detergents work best on concrete or brick surfaces.

Fragrance

While this may not affect the performance of the detergent, some people prefer scented detergents over unscented ones. If you’re sensitive to strong smells or plan on using your pressure washer indoors, opt for unscented detergents.

Eco-Friendliness

If you’re environmentally conscious like me, it’s essential to consider how eco-friendly a detergent is before purchasing it. Look out for labels that indicate biodegradable ingredients or those that are safe for plants and animals.

Budget

Detergent prices vary depending on brand, type, and quantity. Consider how often you will be using your pressure washer and buy accordingly. All-purpose detergents tend to be more affordable than specialty or heavy-duty ones.

Caring For Your Pressure Washer

Investing in a quality pressure washer is only half the battle; proper care is crucial in ensuring its longevity and performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your pressure washer:

  • Clean out any leftover detergent after each use by running clean water through your machine.
  • Rinse off any debris or residue from surfaces after cleaning.
  • Store your detergent in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.
  • Read manufacturer instructions carefully before use.

In conclusion, choosing the right detergent for your pressure washer can significantly impact its performance and help achieve better cleaning results. Consider factors such as type of surface, dilution ratio, fragrance preference, eco-friendliness, and budget when making your purchase decision. And remember to take proper care of your pressure washer to ensure its longevity. Happy cleaning!

Author Profile

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Wayne Borrett
Wayne Borrett is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.

Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Wayne has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.

His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.

In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Wayne began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling—writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.

Through his blogs, Wayne evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.

He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.