A pressure washer on its own can blast away dirt, but when you add the right soap or detergent, you unlock its full cleaning power. Whether you’re washing a car, cleaning siding, or blasting grime off concrete, the right pressure washer soap makes the job faster, easier, and more effective. In this guide, we’ll cover the best pressure washer soaps, how to choose the right formula, and what works best for different surfaces.
Quick Picks
- Best Overall: Karcher Multi-Purpose Pressure Washer Soap – Works on siding, driveways, cars, and general outdoor cleaning.
- Best Budget: Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner – Affordable, eco-friendly, and safe for multiple surfaces.
- Best Premium: Chemical Guys Mr. Pink Super Suds Car Wash Soap – High foaming, pH-balanced, and designed for vehicle detailing.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose Pressure Washer Soap
Different jobs require different cleaning solutions. Here’s what to consider before buying:
- Surface Type: Car soaps are gentle, while concrete and siding cleaners are stronger. Always match the soap to your cleaning surface.
- Concentrate vs Ready-to-Use: Concentrates are more cost-effective but need proper dilution. Ready-to-use bottles are convenient but pricier.
- Eco-Friendliness: Biodegradable formulas are safer for pets, plants, and the environment.
- Foaming Action: Car soaps should foam well, while driveway cleaners should cut through grease and oil.
- Pressure Washer Compatibility: Some soaps are designed for foam cannons, while others feed directly through detergent tanks.
Detailed Reviews – Best Pressure Washer Soaps
1. Karcher Multi-Purpose Pressure Washer Soap
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want one soap that works for almost everything.
- Key Benefits:
- Safe for siding, driveways, cars, and decks
- Ready-to-use formula
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly
Pros:
- Versatile cleaning
- Safe on most surfaces
- Trusted brand
Cons:
- Not as strong on oil stains
Verdict: The best all-purpose soap for general pressure washing. Check Price Here
2. Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner
Who it’s for: Budget-minded users who want safe, eco-friendly cleaning.
- Key Benefits:
- Affordable concentrate formula
- Removes dirt, algae, and stains
- Non-toxic and biodegradable
Pros:
- Great price
- Safe for lawns and pets
- Good for siding and patios
Cons:
- Not ideal for vehicles
Verdict: The best eco-friendly budget cleaner for outdoor surfaces. Check Price Here
3. Chemical Guys Mr. Pink Super Suds Car Wash Soap
Who it’s for: Car enthusiasts who want a gentle, high-foaming soap for detailing.
- Key Benefits:
- pH-balanced formula protects wax and coatings
- High foaming action with foam cannons
- Safe on all paint finishes
Pros:
- Super foamy wash
- Safe and gentle
- Great smell
Cons:
- More expensive per wash
Verdict: The best choice for car detailing with a pressure washer. Check Price Here
4. Sun Joe House and Deck All-Purpose Pressure Washer Cleaner
Who it’s for: Homeowners with large decks, siding, and fences to clean.
- Key Benefits:
- Concentrated formula
- Safe for wood, brick, and vinyl
- Works with all pressure washers
Pros:
- Great coverage when diluted
- Trusted Sun Joe brand
- Effective on wood and vinyl
Cons:
- Not for automotive use
Verdict: Best soap for decks, fences, and siding. Check Price Here
5. Krud Kutter House & Siding Pressure Washer Cleaner
Who it’s for: Homeowners battling mold, mildew, and algae growth.
- Key Benefits:
- Special formula against organic stains
- Safe for siding, stucco, and brick
- Biodegradable formula
Pros:
- Excellent mold and mildew remover
- Safe for multiple surfaces
- Affordable and effective
Cons:
- Not suited for vehicles
Verdict: The best choice for siding and mold removal. Check Price Here
6. Briggs & Stratton Multi-Purpose Cleaner
Who it’s for: Pressure washer owners looking for an OEM-branded soap for general cleaning.
- Key Benefits:
- Formulated for use with Briggs & Stratton washers
- Safe on concrete, siding, and decks
- Easy-to-use concentrate
Pros:
- Trusted OEM brand
- Good all-around cleaner
- Economical concentrate
Cons:
- Not as strong as specialty cleaners
Verdict: A solid all-purpose cleaner with trusted OEM backing. Check Price Here
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Type | Eco-Friendly | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Karcher Multi-Purpose | General Cleaning | Ready-to-Use | Yes | Check Price |
| Simple Green Oxy Solve | Outdoor Surfaces | Concentrate | Yes | Check Price |
| Chemical Guys Mr. Pink | Cars & Detailing | Concentrate | No | Check Price |
| Sun Joe Cleaner | Decks & Fences | Concentrate | Yes | Check Price |
| Krud Kutter House & Siding | Mold & Mildew | Concentrate | Yes | Check Price |
| Briggs & Stratton | General Cleaning | Concentrate | No | Check Price |
FAQ – Pressure Washer Soap
1. Can I use regular soap in a pressure washer?
No, you should only use detergents designed for pressure washers. Regular soap may damage the pump or clog nozzles.
2. Do I need different soap for cars and driveways?
Yes. Car soaps are gentle and pH-balanced, while driveway cleaners are stronger to tackle oil and grease.
3. How do I apply soap with a pressure washer?
Most washers have a detergent tank or siphon hose. Use a low-pressure nozzle (black tip) to apply soap, then rinse with high pressure.
4. Are all soaps biodegradable?
No. Many are eco-friendly, but always check the label if you want plant- and pet-safe formulas.
5. Do I need a foam cannon?
Foam cannons create thicker suds for car washing but aren’t necessary for patios and siding. They’re mainly for vehicles.
Conclusion
The right soap turns your pressure washer into a true cleaning powerhouse. For most homeowners, Karcher Multi-Purpose Soap is the best all-round choice. If you’re on a budget, Simple Green Oxy Solve delivers eco-friendly cleaning at a great price. And if you’re a car enthusiast, Chemical Guys Mr. Pink is the go-to option for high foaming, safe vehicle washes.
Ready to supercharge your pressure washer? Pick one of the recommended soaps above and get cleaner, faster results every time.