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7 Best Soaps & Detergents for Pressure Washers – (Reviews 2022)

Soaps and detergents for pressure washers are designed to produce the right amount of chemicals when used under extremely high pressure. The chemical formulas of soaps and detergents for pressure washers prevent them from damaging the pressure washer’s pump, dispenser, and soap nozzle. The variety of soaps and detergents include products specially designed for concrete, cars, or vinyl, and also multi-purpose products.

Best pressure washer soap brands are Karcher, Sun Joe, Briggs & Stratton, Chemical Guys, AR Annovi Reverberi, and Simple Green. The pros and cons of their products are presented in the soaps and detergents for pressure washer reviews.

The factors that need to be analyzed before purchasing soaps and detergents for pressure washers include purpose, formula – concentrate or diluted, lather, eco-friendliness, pet-friendliness, and additives. These factors are detailed in this pressure washer soaps buying guide.

The best soaps & detergents for pressure washers are listed below:

  1. Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers
  2. Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner
  3. Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers
  4. Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo
  5. AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Power Washer Detergent
  6. Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution
  7. Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate

Best Pressure Washer Soaps Comparison Chart

PRODUCTDETAILS
Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers

Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers

  • Price: $$$
  • Customer Rating: 4.3
  • Volume: 32 fl oz
  • Dilution: 6 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Vehicles
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Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner

Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 4.6
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 0.2 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Vehicles

 

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Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers

Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers

  • Price: $
  • Customer Rating: 4.3
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 8 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Multi-purpose
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Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo

Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 4.6
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 0.2 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Vehicles
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AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent

AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent

  • Price: $$
  • Customer Rating: 5.0
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 4.2 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Vehicles
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Simple Green 18202 Concrete and Driveway Cleaner

Simple Green 18202

  • Price: $
  • Customer Rating: 3.7
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 12 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Concrete
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Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate

Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate

  • Price: $
  • Customer Rating: 3.7
  • Volume: 128 fl oz
  • Dilution: 12 fl oz per gallon of solution
  • Purpose: Wood and Composite
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Best Pressure Washer Soap Reviews (Updated List)

1. Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers

Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers

Karcher SE & Co. KG is a family-owned German company known worldwide for its floor care equipment, wash water treatment, parts cleaning systems, military decontamination equipment, window vacuum cleaners, and high-pressure cleaners.

The Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap for Pressure Washers is formulated to wash dirt without leaving residue behind while the cleaned surface remains shiny and protected. The concentrated formula and the combination of soap shorten the time spent on a cleaning job.

The highly concentrated formula makes the Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap differ from other similar products because it generates a large quantity of ready-to-use solution with very little soap. The recommended dilution ratio is 1:150.

The product is designed for Karcher pressure washers, so it is best used in this type of unit, but it can also be diluted in a bucket of water and still provide good results.

Karcher’s Car Wash & Wax Soap is available in two sizes. The 1-quart bottle costs around $11, while the 1-gallon bottle can be purchased for approximately $14.

The quart bottle has quite an innovative design. At the top, there is an accurate pouring mechanism marked with volume levels allowing the user to pour the exact amount needed. Measuring and diluting the solution is very straightforward.

Karcher’s Car Wash & Wax Soap is eco-friendly because its formula is phosphate-free and biodegradable. This means that if any of the product gets on the ground and soaks there, or if it is washed down a drain, it does not harm the environment.

The advantages of the Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap are as follows:

  • Karcher’s Car Wash & Wax Soap provides a professional wash with easy rinsing and a nice smell.
  • The formula of the Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap is highly concentrated, one gallon of solution being able to create 20 gallons of ready-to-use car wash.
  • The Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap combines car soap and wax that gives protection and shine to the paint and time-effective cleaning jobs.
  • The formula of Karcher’s Car Wash & Wax Soap is biodegradable, making it safe for the environment.

The disadvantages of the Karcher Car Wash & Wax Soap are as follows:

  • Due to the wax in the composition of the product, it cannot be used for other purposes
  • The Karcher Car Wash & Wax does not produce as many bubbles as other similar products

2. Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner

Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner

Snow Joe is a company that specialized in developing high-quality outdoor tools for keeping homes clean all year round. They manufacture equipment such as trimmers, lawnmowers, snowblowers, pressure washers as well as cleaning soaps.

The Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner generates a fast-foaming and high-viscosity snow foam designed for a thorough vehicle wash. The solution is tough on stubborn road grime, but gentle on the paint, leaving a shiny exterior once the cleaning job is done.

The SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner stands out due to its powerful, tasty perfume. The product is available in three different scents with matching colors: coconut, pineapple, and orange and vanilla mix.

For best results and maximum foaming action, Sun Joe’s Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner was designed to be used with a power washer foam cannon attachment.

0.2 fl oz of the solution to a gallon of water is enough to produce very rich suds. The formula of the SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner is so concentrated that it can easily remove grime and grease without damaging the vehicle’s wax or sealant. For this reason, it is a good choice for cleaning between waxes.

Sun Joe’s Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner is not only suitable for cars and metal surfaces, but also for wood and brick, without causing any damage.

The advantages of the Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner are as follows:

  • Sun Joe’s Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner is suitable for multiple types of surfaces such as metal, brick, and wood.
  • The gentle formula of the SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash does not strip the vehicle’s wax and sealant.
  • The Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner from Sun Joe comes in a variety of fragrances

The disadvantages of the Sun Joe SPX-FCS1G-CRM Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner are as follows:

  • The solution of Sun Joe’s Premium Car Wash Soap & Cleaner dries faster compared to other similar products

3. Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers

Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers

Briggs & Stratton has been on the market for over 110 years, becoming one of the world’s largest small engine manufacturers and a leading producer in the pressure washer industry.

The Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers is designed to remove stubborn mold, fungus, and other types of dirt from a variety of surfaces. Its concentrated formula can be used for heavy-duty cleaning jobs such as sidings, patios, driveways as well as lawn furniture.

The Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner is different from other products in this line because no mixing is needed. The product is compatible with direct from concentrate soap system. It is designed to be used with pressure washers to achieve thorough cleaning jobs.

The Multi-Purpose Cleaner from Briggs & Stratton is not the most environmentally-friendly option, so it is important to carefully dispose of the solution. The concentrated formula of the cleaner is very strong. 8 fl oz of formula must be used with a gallon of water to obtain 16 gallons of ready-to-use cleaning solution. The safest way to use the product is through a pressure washer pump. Using Briggs and Stratton power washers is recommended.

Briggs & Stratton Multi-Purpose Cleaner is available in 1-gallon bottles and can be purchased for approximately $20.

The advantages of Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers are as follows:

  • The formula of Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers is very strong, so it can easily eliminate mold, algae, and mildew.
  • Since it is a multi-purpose solution, the Briggs & Stratton 6826 Cleaner can be used on almost all types of surfaces.
  • Compared to other products in this category, the Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner is quite affordable.

The disadvantages of Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner for Pressure Washers are as follows:

  • Since it is a very strong pressure washer detergent, the Briggs & Stratton 6826 Multi-Purpose Cleaner is not as eco-friendly as other similar products.

4. Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo

Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo

Chemical Guys is a global manufacturing company based in Southern California. With over 40 years of research, the company specializes in high-quality car care chemicals, car wash accessories, buffing pads and machines, ranking among the leaders in this industry.

The Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo can be applied both in a pressure washer or by hand. Regardless of the way it is applied, the Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo produces a large quantity of suds. The formula is powerful enough to remove dirt, grime, tree sap, or bird droppings, but gentle enough not to strip the wax or sealant from the surface of the car.

The Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo from Chemical Guys stands out due to its high quality and efficiency. It is an easy-to-utilize product that can be used with satisfying outcomes regardless of the way it is applied.

The Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo is available in three pleasant scents with matching colors: cherry, strawberry margarita, and grape.

The 1-gallon bottle can be purchased for around $25, the 16 fl oz bottle costs approximately $10, and the 64 fl oz bottle is about $18.

The ingredients in Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo include sodium lauryl sulfate, a very effective cleaning agent that produces good lather when mixed with water.

The advantages of the Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo are as follows:

  • The formula of the Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo is highly concentrated, so it can last for a long time.
  • Since it contains water softeners, the Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo can be used with hard water
  • The Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo can be used both in a pressure washer and by hand
  • The Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo is available with a variety of nice scents

The disadvantages of the Chemical Guys Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo are as follows:

  • If used in warm water and dries, the Super Suds Car Wash Soap and Shampoo might leave spots

5. AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Power Washer Detergent

AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent

Annovi Reverberi is a modern company founded in 1958, in Modena, in the heart of the Italian engineering district. This company is well-known within the pressure washing industry.

The AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent is a very flexible product because it can be used on multiple types of surfaces and can be applied manually or with a pressure washer.

The ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent is specifically designed for washing cars and trucks, which is what makes it special: it is safe to use on all vehicle surfaces including rubber, paint, glass, plastics, and vinyl.

The product is non-corrosive and non-toxic and can be used both diluted in a bucket, or with a pressure washer. The dilution is 1:30, meaning that one bottle can make up to 30 gallons of usable foamy solution. Despite being non-corrosive, it is still strong enough to eliminate stubborn stains such as bird droppings and tree sap. It can be used in both upstream and downstream injectors.

The AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent is available in 1-gallon bottles, and it has a price of approximately $30.

The main ingredients in AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent are the same as most detergents: sodium hypochlorite, which is a stain removal and powerful disinfectant, and sodium hydroxide, which dissolves grease and fats.

The advantages of the AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent are as follows:

  • The formula of ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent is very strong, and specifically designed for cars and trucks.
  • The AR Annovi Reverberi Pressure Washer Detergent can be used on any vehicle surfaces.
  • The product is non-corrosive and non-toxic.
  • The ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent’s formula is highly concentrated, creating a high quantity of ready-to-use product.

The disadvantages of the AR Annovi Reverberi ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent are as follows:

  • The ARCTW04 Pressure Washer Detergent is not pet-safe or eco-friendly, so plants should be kept covered, and kids and pets should avoid the area

6. Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution

Simple Green 18202 Concrete and Driveway Cleaner

Simple Green is an American company specialized in manufacturing cleaning products. The corporation is quite a modern one, being on the market since 1975.

The Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution is an environmentally friendly, non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner. It was designed to remove the dirt that accumulates on concrete driveways and paths.

The Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution from Simple Green stands out as being a product that is specifically formulated to remove oil, grease, and grime from concrete and driveway areas. The concentrated formula makes up to 11 gallons of ready-to-use product.

The Simple Green Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution is non-corrosive and non-degrading, and the powerful formula was created to be used with pressure washing machines or by hand in order to clean anything from walkways, patios, driveways, sidewalks, in other words, any concrete surface, brick, or walls. The cleaning solution is non-toxic, biodegradable, and will not harm plants, trees, or lawns, and it is safe for use in areas visited by children, pets, or other wildlife.

The Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution is situated around a price range of about $20 per 1-gallon bottle.

The main ingredients of Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution are water, Ethoxylated Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, and Sodium Carbonate, with other components appearing in smaller percentages, such as chlorides and sodium salts.

The advantages of the Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution are as follows:

  • The Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution is non-toxic and biodegradable, therefore environmentally friendly
  • The 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution can be used both by hand and with a pressure washer
  • The Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution from Simple Green is available for an affordable price

The disadvantages of the Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution are as follows:

  • The Simple Green 18202 Pressure Washer Cleaning Solution is not multipurpose and should be used only on paved surfaces

7. Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate

Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate

Krud Kutter is a company located in Cumming, GA, U.S.A., that produces cleaners and removers for residential, commercial, and industrial settings. The producer specializes in water-based, bio-degradable, non-toxic, and VOC-compliant cleaners and removers with great performance.

The Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate is a specialized deck and fence cleaner, that is one of the few products designed specifically for use on wood, therefore being an ideal pick for fences made of this natural material with special needs. It is also a great choice to use on composite decks and wooden patios.

The DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate is a water-based product that is mild, non-flammable, non-toxic, and non-abrasive, yet it can still handle oily and greasy stains, and even buildup of mildew, algae, or fungus.

The 1-gallon bottle lasts a long time, as only 12 fl oz are needed to make a gallon of ready to use soapy solution.

The price of Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate is around $19.

The Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate contains the same ingredients that most products designed for wood cleaning have, while also being bio-degradable and non-toxic. It also contains a special additive, Sporex, which makes it easy to clean stains from mildew, mold, algae, fungus, and moss.

The advantages of the Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate are as follows:

  • The DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate is water-based, bio-degradable, non-toxic
  • The Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate can eliminate tough stains, even mold, algae, and fungus.
  • Only 12 fl oz of Krud Kutter DF01 are needed to make a gallon of ready-to-use solution
  • The Krud Kutter Blue Pressure Washer is quite affordable

The disadvantages of the Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate are as follows:

  • The Krud Kutter DF01 Blue Pressure Washer Concentrate is not multipurpose, it can only be used on wood and composite materials

How to Use Soap With Pressure Washer?

Pressure Washer Soap vs. DetergentUsing soaps and detergents with a pressure washer correctly requires taking the following steps, in this specific order:

Step 1. While the pressure washer is turned off, unscrew the cap of the detergent tank.

Step 2. Pour the cleaning solution into the soap tank until the line indicates the maximum quantity allowed is reached.

Step 3. Screw the cap of the detergent tank back on.

Step 4. Connect the soap nozzle to the pressure washer wand or gun. As most nozzles are equipped with quick-connect couplers, this step will take a few seconds, while the operator needs to attach the nozzle and push it until a click is heard.

Step 5. Turn on the pressure washer.

Step 6. Using overlapping short strokes, apply the cleaning solution to the area that needs to be pressure washed. If the surface is vertical, the lower area needs to be addressed first and then move up until covering the entire surface.

Step 7. Leave in the cleaning solution for as long as the manufacturer instructs.

Step 8. If the cleaning solution dries faster than the time needed for it to do its job, apply another layer. This situation is most likely to happen while cleaning a specific surface under the sun at high temperatures. Do not allow the detergent to dry, as it could permanently damage the color of the surface.

Step 9. Rinse the soap after turning off the pressure washer and replacing the nozzle with a white one. Do not perform this procedure while the pressure washer is on, as the stream of water can cut through the skin and could cause severe injury.

Step 10. After all the detergent is out of the soap tank, fill the tank with clean water and press the trigger of the pressure washer’s gun until the stream coming out of the nozzle is detergent-free.

Do Pressure Washers Need Special Power Washer Soaps?

Pressure washers need special power washer soaps to remove gunk more efficiently. Regular soaps are not formulated to be used with pressure washers that are capable of delivering 1,500 PSI or more and can’t produce as much foam as power washer soaps. Using regular soaps with pressure washers can also damage the most sensitive parts of the machine – the pump, soap nozzle, or dispenser.

Pressure Washer Soap vs. Detergent

Pressure washer detergents and soaps are formulated differently and are suitable for different uses – washing vinyl sidings, concrete, cars, or other surfaces. Pressure washer soaps are mostly biodegradable and harmless for the environment, unlike detergents that contain harsh chemicals.

1. The ingredient list

Pressure washer soaps and detergents serve the same purpose but they are made of different ingredients. Pressure washer soaps are milder and contain animals fats, vegetable oil, and other natural ingredients. Detergents use synthetic and refined components like petroleum or coal hydrocarbons and do better than pressure washer soaps when it comes to caked-on grease.

Pressure washer soaps don’t mix well with hard or untreated water, which could leave scum or calcium residue on the surface that is being cleaned while detergents can soften hard water.

2. Ecological concerns

Detergent residue is harmful to rivers, lakes, and aquatic animals, including fish as it  destroys the protective layer fishes use to protect themselves from parasites, and even kills fish eggs. Detergents can cause skin and eye irritations in humans.

Pressure washer soaps are biodegradable and mild so they don’t affect plants, pets, humans, or aquatic animals.

Pressure Washer Soap Buying Guide

When buying pressure washer soaps, factors such as purpose, concentrated or diluted formula, suds, additives, and pet and eco-friendliness should be considered, all of which are listed below.

1. Purpose

The four main categories of pressure washer soaps by type are listed below:

  • Pressure washer car soaps, which can be used on different metal surfaces
  • Pressure washer soaps for plastic, such as specialized soaps for the vinyl sidings
  • Pressure washer soaps formulated for concrete driveways and paths that can also be used on stone or brick masonry and work very well with surface cleaners
  • Multi-purpose pressure washer soaps that are mild enough to use on almost any surface, from wood and plastic to metal

Applying pressure washer soap formulated for cleaning metal surfaces to plastic can make the plastic brittle or change its color. Using multi-purpose pressure washer soaps is the safest option, although this type of product can damage car wax or strip off a protective clear coat and cause rusting. Car wax should be applied after using a multi-purpose pressure washer soap for car washing.

2. Concentrated or Diluted Formula

Pressure Washer Soap Buying GuidePressure washer soaps are either concentrated or diluted and packed in large bottles – half a gallon or larger. For every gallon of concentrated pressure washer soap, 3 to 10 gallons of diluted soap are obtainted. Concentrated pressure washer soaps are more economical than diluted formulas. Not owning a pressure washer detergent tank, an injector, or a cannon dispenser can make diluting concentrated pressure washer soaps challenging. Diluted pressure washer soaps are packed in small bottles that have built-in spraying mechanisms and some have a specialized adapter for the pressure washer hose.

3. Suds

Pressure washer soaps are formulated to produce high-quality, rich and thick suds that contribute to their cleaning effectiveness and reduce the need for scrubbing the surface. The way soap works – producing bubbles that collect dirt makes it effortless to wash the dirt off and eliminates scratching.

4. Additives

Some pressure washer soaps contain additives that nourish the surface being cleaned. Special purpose soaps, such as pressure washer car soaps contain wax to protect the surface and stay long on it even after the lather is rinsed.

5. Pet and Eco-Friendly

Most effective pressure washer soaps are very pet and eco-friendly. Pressure washer soaps are the nature-based alternative to the harsher detergents, except in cases when layers of dirt should be cleaned. Pet and eco-friendly pressure washer soaps are marked with “non-toxic”, “biodegradable”, or “EPA Safer Choice”.

How Do Pressure Washers Use Soap?

Pressure washers use different soap systems – built-in soap dispensers, soap injectors, and external soap dispensers to blast soap, foam it up, and create rich suds to remove dirt. The main difference between pressure washer soap systems is in soap intake.

1. Built-in Soap Dispenser

Residential pressure washers such as electric pressure washers come with built-in soap dispensers. Built-in soap dispensers are special compartments in the pressure washer where concentrated or diluted soap can be poured into and mixed with water, if needed. Once the pressure washer soap is added to the built-in soap dispenser, the pressure washer starts blasting it with water. Using a black foaming nozzle on the tip of the pressure washer wand can maximize the amount of lather the pressure washer produces.

2. Soap Injector

Pressure washers with soap injectors typical for gas pressure washers require inserting the injector tube into an external bucket filled with soap. A soap injector is a siphoning tube that can be installed near the pressure washer’s pump and supplies it with the pressure washer soap diluted in a bottle. Pressure washer soap flows through the pressure washer pump and wand, mixes with water, while the black foam nozzle tip gets it foamed up.

3. External Pressure Washer Soap Dispenser – Cannon

Pressure washers that aren’t designed to have chemicals pass through their pump use external soap dispensers or cannons. External soap dispensers –  small bottles filled with pressure washer soap and water are mounted on the top of the pressure washer wand. As the water is sprayed through the pressure washer, the soap is siphoned by the high pressure and the lather is blasted in a similar way as with a regular dispenser. More information about pressure washers and pressure washer accessories can be found on this page.

Pressure Washer Soap Usage Tips and Tricks

1. Know Your Equipment

Pressure Washer Soap Usage Tips and TricksWhen choosing between pressure washer soaps, attention should be paid to the type of pressure washer soap dispenser. Soap injectors or cannons that are attached to the end of the pressure washer wand should be used with pressure washers that don’t have built-in soap dispensers. Pressure washers that have exposed pressure washer pumps come with valves that can be used as pressure washer soap injectors. Pressure washer pump oils should be used to keep the pump working properly.

2. Personal Safety

2.1. Wear appropriate clothes

Protective clothing, water-resistant boots, ear muffs of earplugs, breathing masks, and eye goggles should be worn when applying pressure washer soap to prevent skin or eye irritation or inhaling harsh chemicals.

2.2. Don’t use ladders

Standing on ladders is not recommended when pressure washing and applying pressure washer soap. The high pressure the pressure washer delivers can make the user lose balance, which is why pressure washer extension wands should be used when washing less accessible areas.

2.3. Protect your plants and pets

Covering plants around the surface that is being cleaned using pressure washer soaps and detergents with a waterproof material or tarp will protect them from chemicals.

3. Applying Soap

3.1. Don’t let soap dry

When applied, the pressure washer soap shouldn’t sit for too long on the surface, otherwise, it will dry and become harder to rinse off. When cleaning larger surfaces, the pressure washer soap should be applied to smaller areas, rinsed, and then another area should be soaped.

3.2. Bottom-up VS from top-down

When washing cars, the pressure washer soap should be sprayed on the roof so that it flows down the car’s body, although this should be done swiftly so that the soap doesn’t dry. When washing vinyl sidings, the pressure washer soap should be applied in segments, from the bottom to the top.

FAQ About Pressure Washing Chemicals

1. Can I use dishwasher soap with a pressure washer?

How Do Pressure Washers Use SoapDishwasher soap shouldn’t be used with a pressure washer because it can cause damage to the pressure washer pump. Using dishwasher soap with pressure washers that use cold water only won’t produce as much lather as pressure washer soaps produce. Applying regular soap instead of pressure washer soap to the car surface might eat through the paint’s protective clear coat and cause rust and corrosion in case there is no sufficient amount of wax or sealant.

2. Are pressure washing chemicals safe for the environment?

Some pressure washer chemicals such as pressure washer soaps are safe for the environment while pressure washer detergents aren’t as safe because they contain strong, non-biodegradable chemicals.

3. Can I use household bleach in a pressure washer?

No, household bleach shouldn’t be used in a pressure washer because it can damage the seals on the pressure washer pump. Household bleach should only be sprayed using a spray bottle or applied using a cloth when removing mold or discoloration.

4. How to make a homemade pressure washer soap?

To make a homemade pressure washer soap, ⅓ cup of laundry detergent, 1 gallon of water, 1 cup of vinegar, and ⅔ cup of household cleaner should be used. However, making homemade pressure washer soaps may not be cost-efficient because concentrated pressure washer soaps can produce up to 30 gallons of the product when it is diluted with water.

5. Can you power wash without pressure washer soap?

It is possible to power wash without pressure washer soap, however, pressure washing using the soap is more efficient so grease and oil stains are easily removed.

About Adam Wallace

Adam Wallace is passionate about speed – he loves his motorcycle and adores his car. He knows that if you want your vehicle to love you, you gotta love it back – so he spends a considerable time pampering his rides. Nothing beats the sparkle of paint after a good pressure washing, so he decided to share his best tips and tricks here.

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