The 9 Best Pressure Washer Surface Cleaners, Tested
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Those streaks on your walkway or driveway just won’t do. Say goodbye to the dirt and grime with the best pressure washer surface cleaner.
When it comes to pressure-washing an area that’s exposed to foot and vehicle traffic, using a pressure washer wand can take a while and can produce mixed, inconsistent results. And, if you miss a spot, any streaks left behind are eyesores. The good news is that you can produce better results in less time with a pressure washer surface cleaner. Our favorite was the Simpson Universal, a versatile model that can stand up to heavy-duty use.
A pressure washer surface cleaner is a disc-shaped tool that connects to the end of your pressure washer wand. Under the disc, there is a spinning wand with pressure nozzles at each end that clean a surface quickly and efficiently. They save time and water and remove some of the guesswork involved in pressure-washing.
We scoured the market and researched top-rated pressure washers in a variety of categories. We did a deep dive into the specifications, features, and customer reviews. Then we tested each one to find out how they would perform on a variety of common outdoor cleaning projects. Read on to learn more about how we chose the best pressure washer surface cleaners and how each of our picks performed in testing.
- BEST OVERALL: Simpson Universal 15″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - RUNNER-UP: Briggs & Stratton 14″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Karcher 15″ Universal Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - UPGRADE PICK: SurfaceMaxx 14.5″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR GAS: Ryobi 16″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR ELECTRIC: Greenworks 11″ Rotating Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PROFESSIONAL: Simpson Universal 20″ Industrial Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SEMIPRO: Edou 20″ Direct Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review - ALSO CONSIDER: Twinkle Star 15″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review
How We Tested the Best Pressure Washer Surface Cleaners
With different tool capabilities and different users in mind, we decided to test these surface cleaners with three different pressure washers. Our go-to machine was a 2,700-psi 2.3-GPM gas pressure washer. We felt like it represented a good midrange pressure and flow rate that would work for the broadest number of users. For the low-pressure surface cleaners we used a 1,800-psi 1.1-GPM electric pressure washer. A 4,200-psi 3.2-GPM machine served as the tester for the most powerful surface cleaners.
Our primary testing area was a large concrete driveway divided into 500-square-foot sections. The test involved installing the surface cleaner onto the pressure washer, giving it a quick trial to ensure that the pressure and flow rate of the machine were appropriate for the attachment, then running a timed cleaning of the 500-square-foot section. During this phase we assessed each surface cleaner for actual cleaning power, user comfort, and perceived durability. We also tested each model on a wooden deck to get a feel for maneuverability in smaller spaces and on uneven surfaces. Finally, each of the lightweight models was tested on a vertical surface: a wood privacy fence, vinyl house siding, or a low concrete wall.
Our scoring favored the versatility of midsize, wheelless surface cleaners. The 14-inch to 16-inch models tended to offer the best blend of durability, lightweight construction, multisurface performance, and cleaning power for a competitive price. However we also noted the practicality of smaller electric-powered models for limited use where storage space comes at a premium. The largest models, especially those with wheels, lend themselves to extended use on large expanses, which some customers will appreciate.
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 10 |
| Time spent testing | 1 hour per cleaner |
| Tests performed | 4 to 5 |
| Price range | $30 to $450 |
Our Top Picks
With all of that background information in mind, we tested the following models on a variety of surfaces. Read on to find out how each one performed and whether one may be right for your next cleaning project.
Best Overall
Simpson Universal 15" Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Deck size: 15-inch diameter
- Pressure rating: 2,200 psi to 3,700 psi
- Flow rate: 2.3 GPM
Pros
- Heavy-duty powder-coated steel build can stand up to heavy use
- Versatile model can work with most gas pressure washers
- ¼-inch quick-connect fitting is easy to use
- Rust-resistant wand and nozzles can last several seasons
Cons
- No wheels makes cleaning large areas more strenuous
DIYers hunting for a quality pressure washer surface cleaner that can be attached to a wand may want to check out this model from Simpson. This semipro model features a 15-inch deck made from heavy-duty powder-coated steel for durability. With a 3,700-psi maximum rating and a 140-degrees Fahrenheit maximum water temperature rating, it works with most gas-powered cold-water pressure washers.
This pressure washer surface cleaner from Simpson features a ¼-inch quick-connect fitting. The fitting allows users to snap their pressure washer wand on and off the unit with ease. While it doesn’t have a grease fitting, the stainless steel wand and nozzles resist corrosion from typical use.
We especially liked the combination of durability and performance in the Simpson 15-inch surface cleaner. It was large enough to clean 500 square feet of driveway in less than 5 minutes and also lightweight enough to use comfortably on vertical surfaces like our fence. While most of the other midsize models we tested were housed in plastic, the powder-coated steel housing and stiff ¾-inch bristle ring felt much more durable. The rotating spray arm worked smoothly and quietly. The price was competitive, but it was not cheap.
Get the Simpson 15″ pressure washer surface cleaner at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Runner-up
Briggs & Stratton 14" Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Deck size: 14-inch diameter
- Pressure rating: 2,200 psi to 3,400 psi
- Flow rate: 2.5 GPM
Pros
- This flexible pick works with both electric and gas pressure washers
- Lightweight deck at 3½ pounds; ideal for cleaning large areas without tiring out
- Short guide bristles move smoothly over textured surfaces
Cons
- Susceptible to kickback under higher pressure; better for light-duty cleaning
- Noisy operation may disturb nearby neighbors
Users with less powerful pressure washers can join in the surface cleaning action with Briggs & Stratton’s 14-Inch Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner. This model features an operational range between 2,200 and 3,400 psi, so it’s worth a look for smaller electric washers and gas-powered models alike.
Beyond compatibility, this model from Briggs & Stratton has some desirable features. There is a ¼-inch quick-connect fitting for wand attachment. The Briggs & Stratton also features a lightweight deck that is 14 inches across, allowing users to clean both horizontal and vertical surfaces. And, since it weighs just 3½ pounds, users won’t likely wear themselves out pushing it around.
The Briggs & Stratton surface cleaner glided smoothly across our rough concrete drive thanks to its shorter ½-inch guard bristles. It was easier to use on vertical surfaces because of the lightweight housing, but the lighter housing also made it more susceptible to kickback when triggering the pressure washer spray gun. The 14-inch body is a bit smaller than average for surface cleaners with comparable pressure and flow ratings.
In our tests, the compact size seemed to increase maneuverability while cleaning smaller surfaces like the sidewalk and deck. We also noted some low-level vibration and noise with this surface cleaner that we did not find with the others.
Get the Briggs & Stratton pressure washer surface cleaner at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Walmart.
Best Bang for the Buck
Karcher 15" Universal Surface Cleaner
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 3.8/5; Maneuverability 4.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Deck size: 15-inch diameter
- Pressure rating: 3,200 psi
- Flow rate: 2.7 GPM
Pros
- Budget-friendly model compared to similar options
- Lightweight at 4 pounds; suitable for cleaning vertical surfaces
- Higher flow rate flushes soil and debris efficiently
Cons
- Slightly less cleaning power than higher pressure models
Those looking to stretch their surface cleaner budget as far as it will go may want to check out the Karcher 15-Inch Surface Cleaner. This unit is compatible with a gas-powered or electric pressure washer with ¼-inch quick-connect fittings, doubling the value of this model. This is unlike many of Karcher’s homeowner-grade pressure washer cleaners that accept only Karcher-specific nozzles.
This model from Karcher features a maximum operating pressure of 3,200 psi, offering a high-powered approach without a bank-breaking price tag. The entire kit weighs just under 4 pounds, so it’s suitable for cleaning vertical surfaces like fences, concrete walls, and more.
We noted that the maximum pressure rating on this budget-friendly Karcher 15-inch surface cleaner is close to that of the gas pressure washer we used for testing. We only experienced minor kickback with no clogging or damage to the unit. The spray arm turned smoothly and the higher water volume flushed away debris easily; however, we did note that cleaning power was somewhat less than that of the Simpson 15″ and Briggs & Stratton models, requiring a second pass in some heavily soiled areas.
Get the Karcher 15″ pressure washer surface cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Upgrade Pick
SurfaceMaxx 14.5" Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
Photo: lowes.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Deck size: 15-inch diameter
- Pressure rating: 2,800 psi to 4,500 psi
- Flow rate: 3.5 GPM
Pros
- Corrosion-resistant stainless steel housing provides impressive longevity
- High water-flow rate easily tackles most cleaning projects
- Compatible with larger gas pressure washers
- 3 nonmarring swivel wheels; ideal for driveways and decks
Cons
- Not for use with hot water power washers
- Not compatible with smaller gas or electric pressure washers
- Premium price point compared to similar models
The SurfaceMaxx Pro 15-Inch Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner boasts professional-grade stainless steel construction and powerful water handling ability. Compatible with pressure washers from 2,800 psi to 4,500 psi, this is an ideal choice to make fast work of large cleaning projects like driveways and patios.
This professional-grade surface cleaner features a corrosion-resistant stainless steel housing and replaceable pro-quality spray nozzles. Nonmarring swivel wheels make the job even easier as they improve mobility while taking the sprayer’s weight. The standard ¼-inch quick-connect coupler works with most gas pressure washers.
Although the housing of the SurfaceMaxx surface cleaner is moderately sized, we had to use the big pressure washer to test it. This model required both the higher pressure and the higher flow rate as shown in the specs below. We first tried it with a 3,200-psi 2.7-GPM pressure washer, and the surface cleaner underwhelmed, but after upgrading to a 4,200-psi 3.2-GPM washer, we found a sweet spot.
The weight of the stainless steel and aggressiveness of the higher flow rate made vertical surface cleaning excessively strenuous and potentially dangerous, so we kept it on driveways and decks where it worked smoothly, quickly, and efficiently.
Get the SurfaceMaxx pressure washer surface cleaner at Lowe’s.
Best for Gas
Ryobi 16" Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner
Photo: homedepot.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Performance 4/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Value 3.8/5
Product Specs
- Deck size: 16-inch diameter
- Pressure rating: 2,700 psi to 3,700 psi
- Flow rate: 2.5 GPM
Pros
- Works with most midsize gas pressure washers
- Rolls smoothly over flat and textured surfaces
- Cleans a wide path quickly; perfect for dealing with larger areas
Cons
- Plastic housing is less durable than steel; not ideal for frequent use
The Ryobi 16-inch gas pressure washer surface cleaner is a great choice for most horizontal hard surfaces like sidewalks, patios, decks, and driveways. The rotating jets clean a 16-inch streak-free path on each pass. Four swivel wheels save the user’s back as they glide across the surface carrying the weight of the washer. The 16-inch housing is made of durable plastic. This tool features a ¼-inch quick-connect coupler to attach with most gas pressure washers rated 2,700 psi to 3,700 psi.
The Ryobi surface cleaner’s capability was similar to that of the Simpson 15-inch, but having wheels was a game changer. Where the bristles of nonwheeled surface cleaners occasionally grab the surface or otherwise slow the progress, it’s just the opposite with the Ryobi. Occasionally we moved a bit too quickly across the driveway and left unwashed areas. No matter, it was a simple matter to roll back across.
The process was far less strenuous and tedious than with nonwheeled surface cleaners. The two aspects of this unit that kept it out of the top spot were the cost, which is nearly twice that of our Best Overall pick, and the plastic housing. Stainless or powder-coated steel is nearly always a more durable choice, but we really liked using this one.
Get the Ryobi pressure washer surface cleaner at The Home Depot.
Best for Electric
Greenworks 11" Rotating Surface Cleaner
