What is the best concrete cleaner to use with a pressure washer?

Using a pressure washer is one of the most effective ways to clean concrete surfaces like driveways, sidewalks, and patios. Pressure washers use high-powered water jets to break down and remove dirt, grime, mildew, and other debris. When paired with the right concrete cleaner, a pressure washer can make quick work of even the dirtiest concrete.

But not all concrete cleaners are created equal when used in a pressure washer. The best cleaners will be formulated specifically for use with pressure washers. They will cling to surfaces longer, foaming and emulsifying to lift away more grime. They will also be safe for use on a variety of surfaces like brick, stone, and wood.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Concrete Cleaner for Pressure Washers

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best concrete cleaner to use with your pressure washer:

• Effectiveness – Look for heavy duty cleaners designed for pressure washer use that can cut through oil stains, mildew, algae, rust stains and other tough grime.
• Clinging ability – The best cleaners will foam and stick to vertical surfaces longer to allow the pressure washer time to lift away dirt.
• pH level – Higher alkaline cleaners with a pH of 11-13 will emulsify oil better. Mildly acidic cleaners with a pH of 3-5 are better for removing mineral deposits.
• Safety – Ensure the cleaner is safe for use on a variety of surfaces like brick, stone, wood, etc. Biodegradable and non-toxic cleaners are ideal.
• Ease of use – Cleaners that attach directly to the pressure washer wand for spraying are most convenient.
• Scent – If scent bothers you, look for fragrance-free options.

Reviews of the 5 Best Concrete Cleaners for Pressure Washers

Based on the above criteria, here are reviews of 5 top-rated concrete cleaners suitable for pressure washer use:

1. Simple Green Concrete and Driveway Cleaner

Simple Green Concrete and Driveway Cleaner is a non-toxic, biodegradable formula designed for use with pressure washers. It clings well to vertical surfaces and emulsifies oil and grease with a pH of 10.5. It can be applied through pressure washer soap nozzles or via hand pump sprayers. It is safe for use on concrete, brick, stone, stucco, and wood.

2. Krud Kutter Original Concentrated Cleaner Degreaser

Krud Kutter Degreaser is a versatile concrete and driveway cleaner suitable for pressure washers, with a pH of 11.5. It cuts through grease, oil, dirt, and grime on contact. The thick formula adheres well to surfaces for longer cleaning time. It can be diluted for regular cleaning or used full strength for the toughest jobs. It is biodegradable, non-flammable, non-abrasive, and contains no VOCs.

3. Simple Green Pro HD Heavy Duty Cleaner

Simple Green Pro HD Heavy Duty Cleaner is designed specifically for use in pressure washers. It clings for up to 10 minutes on vertical surfaces for maximum cleaning results. The alkaline formula quickly removes grease, oil, exhaust stains, dust and dirt. It can be sprayed undiluted through soap nozzles. It is biodegradable, non-toxic and safe for use around people, plants and pets when dry.

4. Sun Joe SPX-AAC Foam Cannon Soap Dispenser

The Sun Joe Foam Cannon turns any pressure washer into a foam gun for applying thick foaming cleaners. It mixes cleaner with water to create a rich foam that clings to surfaces for superior cleaning action and vertical surface coverage. It works with any standard pressure washer soap and has an adjustable foam consistency knob. The large tank capacity reduces refilling.

5. TriNova Concrete Cleaner and Degreaser

TriNova Concrete Cleaner is a commercial-grade formula made for pressure washers. It removes oil, grease, fluid leaks, exhaust stains, mildew and other grime from concrete and paved surfaces. The thick gel formula clings for up to 20 minutes to allow pressure washing to dissolve and lift away stains. It can be applied by foam cannon, pump sprayer or through pressure washer soap nozzles.

How to Use a Concrete Cleaner with a Pressure Washer

Once you’ve selected the right concrete cleaner for your pressure washing needs, proper application technique is also important for best results. Here are some tips on using concrete cleaner with a pressure washer:

• Always check the cleaner label for proper dilution ratios based on job intensity – heavier buildup requires less dilution.
• Apply the diluted or straight solution evenly across the surface using a hand pump sprayer first.
• Allow the cleaner to sit and soak for 5-10 minutes before power washing.
• For vertical surfaces, apply cleaner from bottom to top so it has time to cling as you work upwards.
• Use a foam cannon attachment to coat surfaces with thick, clinging foam before power washing.
• Power wash from top to bottom in overlapping paths keeping the nozzle 6-10 inches away.
• For tough stains, go over area with concentrated cleaner and allow additional dwell time before power washing again.
• Rinse thoroughly until all suds are gone.

Pressure Washer Tips and Settings for Concrete Cleaning

Properly configuring your pressure washer is also key for safe, effective concrete cleaning. Here are some pressure washer tips to follow:

• Gas pressure washers over 3000 PSI are ideal for concrete cleaning tasks.
• Use the right nozzle – 25 degree fan nozzles provide the best coverage.
• Keep nozzle 6-10 inches from the surface, avoid excessive pressure which can damage concrete.
• Use hot water setting, around 150-200°F if available, for faster cleaning.
• Move nozzle in overlapping paths down and across the concrete.
• Take extra care when nearing joints, edges and decorative borders which are more vulnerable to damage from pressure washing.

Safety Tips for Pressure Washing Concrete

Pressure washers involve high pressure water that can damage property or cause injury if not used properly. Here are some important safety considerations:

• Read cleaner labels and follow all instructions for proper handling, dilution, application and disposal.
• Wear protective gear like rubber boots, gloves, eye and ear protection.
• Barricade the area to keep people and pets away during pressure washing.
• Keep children and animals out of the area until it is completely dry after cleaning.
• Point nozzle down towards surface at all times, never at body parts.
• Keep electrical connections dry and use ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet.
• Allow pressure washer to cool periodically to avoid overheating.

Conclusion

Pressure washing with the right concrete cleaner makes quick work of cleaning dirty, stained outdoor concrete surfaces. Look for heavy duty cleaners designed specifically for pressure washer use that cling well and emulsify oil and grease stains. Always dilute and apply the cleaner properly before pressure washing for best results. Follow pressure washer guidelines and safety precautions to avoid property damage or injury. With the proper cleaner and technique, pressure washing is an effective way to restore the appearance of outdoor concrete.