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Pressure washing is a great way to clean surfaces around your home. However, using the wrong cleaner can damage the surface or even make it worse!
In this blog post, we will share six recipes for homemade pressure washer detergents that are particularly well suited to clean surfaces.
We will also discuss which ingredients you should avoid, and how to make your own pressure washer detergent at home. Let’s get started!
The Importance of Using the Right Cleaner
When using a pressure washer, it is important to use the right cleaner. Using the wrong cleaner can damage the surface being cleaned or make it worse.
Some cleaners can be harsh and can damage the surface if used incorrectly. It is important to choose a cleaner that is specifically designed for the surface you are cleaning.
If you are unsure which cleaner to use, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional before starting your project.
The Ingredients and Similar Sounding but Very Different Chemicals
Although some of the ingredients in these Homemade pressure washer detergents may sound similar, they are very different. Some of these cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage the surface if used incorrectly. It is important to read the instructions and use the correct amount of cleaner for the job.
Other Homemade cleaners contain natural ingredients that are safe for the environment. These cleaners are a great option if you are looking for an eco-friendly option.
Finally, some Homemade cleaners are designed for a specific surface. Make sure to choose a cleaner that is designed for the surface you are cleaning.
Washing soda is similar to but is not the same as bicarbonate of soda (also known as a baking powder / baking soda). Neither of these two ingredients will likely harm you in the quantities and concentrations you’re likely to come into contact with.
On the other hand, caustic soda is a very nasty chemical that can harm you even in small quantities. Caustic soda is not used as an ingredient in any of these recipes, although it may be present in bleach.
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Six Recipes for Homemade Pressure Washer Detergents
As a general rule, you should add powdered ingredients to the liquid. This will help the ingredients dissolve more evenly and avoid lumps and globs of dry powder at the bottom of the container.
Eco-Friendly Detergent Recipes
- ⅓ cup phosphate-free laundry detergent powder
- ⅔ cup all-purpose household cleaner powder
- (optional) 1 cup vinegar
- 1 gallon of water
If you’re using vinegar, add it to the water, then add the detergent, followed by the household cleaning powder.
Mix gently to avoid creating too many suds and use as you would with any other pressure washing solution.
Cheap (but powerful) Power Washer Cleaning Solution
This is a cheap but powerful, multi-purpose cleaning solution. As it contains bleach, you should use rubber gloves and eye protection, especially if you are going to use it with your power washer.
- 3⅓ oz. laundry detergent powder (⅖ of a cup)
- 6¾ oz. all-purpose cleaner powder (⅘ of a cup)
- ¼ gallon bleach (just under 5 cups)
- 1⅓ gallon of water
Combine the laundry detergent and all-purpose cleaner by stirring them in a container. Leave them overnight to combine properly.
The next day, fill your container with water. At this point, decide whether the container is large enough and choose a bigger one if necessary. Wearing gloves and eye protection, add the bleach. Now mix in the dry ingredients, trying not to create too many suds.
This is a powerful cleaning solution that can be used on a variety of surfaces. You could even try it on your car’s wheels – but avoid getting it onto the car’s bodywork. It is important to use rubber gloves and eye protection when using this cleaner.
DIY Pressure Washer Detergent for Cars
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 12 tablespoons of laundry detergent powder (⅘ of a cup)
Gently mix the detergent powder into the water until it is completely dissolved.
This recipe does not contain the harsh chemicals in other recipes and should be safe to use to wash most car surfaces. However, avoid using it in areas that are already damaged.
If you are unsure about whether this cleaner is safe to use on your car, test it in a small, inconspicuous area first.
Eco-Friendly Pressure Washer Detergent Recipe
- 1 gallon of water
- ⅓ cup phosphate-free laundry detergent (powder)
- ⅔ cup household cleaner
- (optional) 1 cup vinegar
Measure out the water and add the vinegar if you wish to use it. Add the dry powders and mix gently to avoid suds.
This eco-friendly option is safe to use on most surfaces, and small quantities from splashes or spray should not harm plant life.
Concrete Pressure Washer Detergent Recipe
- 1 gallon of water
- ½ cup of borax
- ½ cup of washing soda and mix thoroughly.
- 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap
Measure out the water and add the dry ingredients, mixing thoroughly. Add the dish soap and mix gently. This recipe is designed for cleaning concrete but can also be used on other surfaces such as patios, driveways, yards and sidewalks. It is important to rinse the area afterward with clean water to avoid leaving a residue.
Decks and Smooth Flooring Pressure Washer Detergent Recipe
This is a slightly weaker version of the cheap but powerful recipe, which is, therefore, more suitable for use on decks and another smooth flooring. You should still take care to avoid contact with your eyes and skin.
- 1 gallon of water
- ⅓ cup powdered laundry detergent
- ⅔ cup all-purpose household cleaner
- 4 cups bleach
Combine the laundry detergent and all-purpose household cleaner and leave overnight to combine properly.
The following morning, measure out the water. Wearing gloves and eye protection, add the bleach. Now, mix in the dry ingredients, trying not to create too many suds.
Vinyl Siding Pressure Washer Detergent Recipe
The Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI) suggests that small mold and mildew spots can be handled with cleaners such as Fantastik® or Windex®.
A solution of vinegar (30%) and water (70%) has proven successful for larger sections.
Alternatively, you also could try the following solution:
- ⅓ cup (2⅔ ounces) powdered laundry detergent (e.g., Tide®, Fab®, or equivalent),
- ⅔ cup (5⅓ ounces) powdered household cleaner (e.g., Spic & Span®, Soilax®, or equivalent),
- 4 cups (32 fluid ounces) of liquid laundry bleach,
- and 1 gallon (128 fluid ounces) of water.
Combine the laundry detergent and all-purpose household cleaner and leave overnight to combine properly.
The following morning, measure out the water. Wearing gloves and eye protection, add the bleach. Now, mix in the dry ingredients, trying not to create too many suds.
Homemade Cleaners Are a Great Option
Homemade pressure washer detergents are a great option because they are cheap, easy to make, and often safer than commercial cleaners.
They can be used on various surfaces, and you can choose to make ones that are safe for the environment. With a little time and effort, you can create your own pressure washer detergent that is specific for the job in hand and will get the job done right.
Author Bio:
Jonathan Gaze is the editor of https://harryrufus.com a website where he writes about all things related to the home. He believes that your home should be a reflection of who you are, and strives to create content that is both informative and inspires readers to make their homes a place they love coming back to.
