What chemicals to use when pressure washing a driveway?

What chemicals to use when pressure washing a driveway?

The right chemical depends on what you’re removing. For general dirt and everyday grime, a biodegradable, low-foaming, pressure-washer-specific all-purpose detergent is the safest default choice. For oil and grease stains, a dedicated concrete degreaser formulated to break down petroleum residue significantly outperforms general soap. For algae, moss, or mildew staining, a bleach-based cleaner or a specialized biological cleaner works best, applied at low pressure and allowed to dwell before rinsing. Avoid using regular laundry detergent or excessive dish soap long-term, since both can clog a pressure washer’s detergent injection system over time. Whatever chemical you choose, always follow the label’s dilution ratio, test an inconspicuous area first, and rinse thoroughly afterward, since leftover residue can attract new dirt just as easily as the original grime did.