Most people think pressure washers are only for cleaning driveways and patios. But the truth is, these powerful machines can do so much more. With the right nozzle, detergent, or attachment, your power washer becomes one of the most versatile cleaning tools you own. Here are 12 surprising power washer uses you probably didn’t know about — plus tips and tools to get the job done right.
1. Washing Cars and Trucks
A pressure washer makes car washing faster and more effective than a garden hose. Use a 40° nozzle and pair it with a foam cannon attachment for a swirl-free wash. Keep PSI under 2000 to avoid damaging paint.
2. Cleaning Outdoor Furniture
Plastic, metal, and even some wooden patio furniture can be refreshed with a pressure washer. Use a 25° or 40° nozzle and a mild detergent like Simple Green Oxy Solve for best results.
3. Power-Washing Fences
Wood and vinyl fences collect dirt, mildew, and algae. A pressure washer removes it fast. Use a 25° nozzle and low pressure for wood to avoid splintering. For vinyl, you can go stronger.
4. Cleaning Garage Doors
Garage doors are exposed to road grime, dust, and spider webs. A pressure washer with a detergent nozzle followed by a 25° spray makes them look brand new.
5. Outdoor Rugs and Mats
Instead of scrubbing rugs, lay them flat outside and pressure wash with a 40° nozzle. Use a detergent safe for fabrics. Sun Joe SPX3000 is a great choice here since it’s gentle enough for fabric cleaning.
6. Cleaning Grills
You can use a power washer to clean the outside of your grill (not the burners or inside components). A degreasing detergent and a 25° nozzle blast away grease stains and soot.
7. Washing Garbage Cans
Trash cans collect bacteria and nasty smells. Flip them over and pressure wash inside and out. Add a disinfecting soap for extra freshness.
8. Power-Washing Bicycles and Motorcycles
Dirt and mud wash off bikes and motorcycles easily with a pressure washer. Use a low-pressure nozzle and keep your distance to avoid forcing water into bearings.
9. Cleaning Gutters (with an Attachment)
A standard wand won’t reach gutters, but a gutter cleaning attachment makes it easy. Blast out leaves and debris without climbing a ladder.
10. Prepping Surfaces for Painting or Staining
Whether it’s a deck, fence, or siding, pressure washing removes old paint flakes, dirt, and mildew so your new paint or stain sticks better. This is one of the most effective pre-paint prep methods.
11. Washing Boats, RVs, and Trailers
Larger vehicles collect road grime, salt, and algae. A pressure washer makes cleaning easier and protects against corrosion. Use a gentle detergent and a 40° nozzle.
12. Power-Washing Playsets and Outdoor Toys
Kids’ playsets, slides, and even plastic toys can get grimy outdoors. A quick pressure wash makes them look like new. Always use mild soap and a wide-angle spray.
Extra Bonus Uses
- Cleaning Lawnmowers and Garden Tools: Remove caked-on dirt and grass.
- Refreshing Walkways: Blast weeds and moss from between bricks.
- Cleaning Poolsides: Remove slippery algae and dirt around pool areas.
Best Pressure Washers for Versatile Cleaning
1. Sun Joe SPX3000 – 2030 PSI, 1.76 GPM
Affordable, versatile, and safe for cars, rugs, and patio furniture. Dual detergent tanks make it perfect for multi-surface cleaning. Check Price
2. Greenworks Pro 2300 – 2300 PSI, 2.3 GPM
Brushless motor with smart pressure technology. Great balance of power and safety for home use. Check Price
3. Simpson MegaShot MSH3125 – 3200 PSI, 2.5 GPM
Gas-powered unit with a Honda GC190 engine. Best for driveways, fences, and tough jobs. Check Price
Comparison Table – Pressure Washer Picks
| Model | PSI / GPM | Type | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Joe SPX3000 | 2030 / 1.76 | Electric | Cars, Rugs, Furniture | Check Price |
| Greenworks Pro 2300 | 2300 / 2.3 | Electric | Patios, Fences | Check Price |
| Simpson MegaShot MSH3125 | 3200 / 2.5 | Gas | Driveways, Heavy Jobs | Check Price |
FAQ – Surprising Pressure Washer Uses
1. Can I pressure wash indoors?
No. Always use pressure washers outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. Gas units produce carbon monoxide, and water overspray indoors can cause damage.
2. Will pressure washing damage car paint?
Not if you use a 40° nozzle and keep pressure under 2000 PSI. Always maintain a safe distance.
3. Can I use bleach in a pressure washer?
No. Bleach can damage pumps and seals. Use detergents specifically made for pressure washers.
4. Do I need special attachments?
Not always, but accessories like foam cannons, surface cleaners, and gutter attachments make jobs faster and easier.
5. What surfaces should I avoid?
Avoid delicate fabrics, painted wood, old shingles, and anything fragile. Always test on a small area first.
Conclusion
Your pressure washer is more versatile than you think. Beyond cleaning driveways, it can freshen up cars, bikes, outdoor furniture, rugs, fences, and even toys. With the right accessories, it becomes an all-in-one outdoor cleaning machine. If you’re new to power washing, the Sun Joe SPX3000 is a safe, affordable choice. For bigger jobs, the Greenworks Pro 2300 or Simpson MegaShot give you more muscle.
Ready to put your pressure washer to work? Try out these 12 uses and make cleaning faster, easier, and more satisfying than ever.