Freshen up your outdoor spaces with these satisfying spring pressure washing ideas. Discover what to powerwash (and what to avoid), plus tips for safe and effective cleaning.
This past weekend, I finally dusted off our pressure washer and got to work on our deck—and wow, I forgot how satisfying it is to watch layers of dirt and grime melt away in seconds. There’s just something about spring cleaning that hits different when it involves blasting away a year’s worth of buildup.
As I stood there watching the boards go from dingy gray to a warm wood tone again, I started thinking about all the other things around the house that could use a good pressure wash. So today, I’m sharing a roundup of the best things to pressure wash in the spring to refresh your outdoor spaces—and a few things you should skip to avoid doing more harm than good.
If you’ve never tried pressure washing before, prepare to be hooked. It’s basically the adult version of a pressure-filled coloring book.
What to Pressure Wash This Spring
Whether you’re getting your home ready for hosting season or just craving a cleaner, fresher outdoor space, here are some of the best areas to hit with the pressure washer.
1. Decks and Patios
This is where I started, and it made the biggest difference. Use a fan tip nozzle to avoid damaging wood or composite surfaces. You can also pair your pressure washer with a deck cleaner for extra grime-fighting power.
2. Patio Furniture
Plastic, metal, and resin furniture can all handle a rinse. Just make sure to avoid fabric cushions or wood that’s not sealed. A quick spray instantly makes your furniture look guest-ready.
3. Siding (Vinyl or Brick)
Give your house a facelift by cleaning off mildew and cobwebs. Be careful not to use too much pressure, especially around windows or loose siding.
If you’re pressure washing brick, it’s important to do it carefully to avoid damage. According to Advantage Pro Services, using a low pressure setting—typically between 500–1000 PSI—is ideal for most brick surfaces. For older brick or homes over 80 years old, even gentler cleaning methods may be necessary, or you might want to hire a professional. The Home Depot also recommends using as low as 100–800 PSI for aging or delicate brick. Avoid holding the nozzle in one spot for too long, and always test a small area first to make sure your settings are safe.
4. Fencing
Wood, vinyl, or composite fences can all benefit from a good clean. It’ll brighten up your whole yard and show off any landscaping.
5. Driveways and Walkways
Get rid of salt residue, moss, oil stains, and dirt from concrete, pavers, or stone. Use a surface cleaner attachment for even results and faster cleaning.
6. Garage Doors
You might be surprised how dusty these get. A quick spray will help everything look crisp and clean again.
7. Outdoor Rugs and Mats
For those that are made to be weather-resistant, pressure washing can be a fast way to deep clean—just lay them flat and secure them with something heavy so they don’t fly away.
8. Trash Cans
Not the most glamorous task, but trust me…your nose will thank you. Use a detergent attachment to really scrub out stubborn smells.
9. Outdoor Play Equipment
Plastic playhouses, slides, and swing sets are usually fair game. Just avoid wooden structures with aging wood that might splinter under pressure.
10. Garden Tools
Shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows…you name it. Quick cleanup equals longer tool life.
11. Planters and Pots
Terra cotta and plastic planters can get crusty and stained over the winter. A blast of water can bring them back to life before spring planting.
12. Poolside Areas
If you have a pool or hot tub, clean the concrete surround or any mildew-prone spots nearby before the season kicks off.
What Not to Powerwash
Not everything loves a blast of high-pressure water. Here are a few things to skip:
- Windows and Glass Doors — Too much pressure can crack glass or damage seals.
- Electrical Fixtures or HVAC Units — Water and electricity are never a good mix.
- Shingles or Roofs — You can strip off protective layers and cause damage.
- Cars (unless you know what you’re doing) — The pressure can damage paint or force water into delicate areas.
- Stained Wood Furniture — Pressure washing can strip finishes and sealants. Stick to hand cleaning for these.
Tips for Getting Started
- Choose the right pressure washer. A light-duty electric washer (around 1,300–1,800 PSI) is great for most household jobs. This is the one we have.
- Pick the correct nozzle. Red nozzles give a strong, concentrated stream, while white or green nozzles are gentler and safer for most surfaces.
- Work in sections. Use steady, sweeping motions for the best results. Avoid hovering in one spot for too long.
- Let everything dry fully. Things always look cleaner once dry, so don’t judge too soon.
Ready to Try Pressure Washing This Spring?
If you’ve never done it before, spring is the perfect time to start pressure washing your outdoor spaces. You’ll be shocked by the difference a little water pressure can make—and how oddly fun it is.
Here’s the pressure washer I use, and the cleaner I keep on hand for different jobs. You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff to get started—just a solid machine and the desire to watch grime disappear like magic.
Happy spraying!
