Pressure Washing Shower: A Comprehensive Guide

Pressure washing your shower can be a game-changer for a sparkling clean bathroom.

Regular cleaning can help prevent soap scum and mildew buildup, which can be especially problematic in humid environments.

To pressure wash your shower, you'll need a pressure washer, a wide fan tip, and a low-pressure setting.

It's essential to clean the shower walls and floor, as well as any surrounding areas, like the shower caddy and handles.

A 25-degree fan tip is ideal for cleaning shower walls, while a 40-degree fan tip is better for larger areas or surfaces.

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The high-pressure stream of water is the key to removing soap scum from tile, lifting mold from grout, and erasing hard water stains.

It's not rocket science, the process is straightforward. The high-pressure stream of water does the work, no need for harsh chemicals or scrubbing.

You can use a garden hose passed through the bathroom window or connect to the sink faucet by replacing the aerator with a hose adapter.

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The pressure washer works best when you're close to the surface, but not too close. There's a sweet spot you need to find, and it may take some practice to get it right.

Use overlapping strokes to clean the shower walls and floor, this will help you cover the entire area evenly.

Before you start pressure washing your shower, make sure the tile and grout are in good condition. If they're not, it's better to scrub by hand to avoid damage.

Inspect the tiles and grout carefully before proceeding. Look for any chipped or loose tiles, and check if the grout lines are wider than half an inch.

Use the right nozzle for the job. A 25-degree spray pattern is best for most showers, but if you're using a cordless pressure washer, a 15-degree nozzle will give you more cleaning power.

Don't use a red nozzle with any pressure washer, as it can create a concentrated spray that will damage the tile and chip the grout.

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Before you start pressure washing your shower or tub, consider whether you can do the job safely.

Read through the tips carefully to ensure you're prepared for the task at hand.

You've got to be careful when using a pressure washer on your shower, or you might end up with a bigger mess on your hands. Potential damage to the tiles and grout is a major concern, so make sure they're in good condition before proceeding.

One of the biggest risks is using the wrong nozzle. The red nozzle with zero degrees is a no-go, as it can damage the tile and chip the grout. Go with the green nozzle with a 25-degree spray pattern instead.

Glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles are also off-limits, as the power washer can ruin the finish. And don't even think about using a pressure washer on shower doors or the shower light fixture, as you risk shattering the glass.

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If your shower has chipped or loose tiles or is missing grout, it's better to scrub by hand. And be aware that using a corded pressure washer increases the risk factor, especially if you're not careful.

Don't forget to protect your fixtures, as the high pressure can tear apart reapplied caulks, weak seals, or delicate fixtures. Keep an eye out for caulk, sealant, or refinished tubs or showers, as these are extremely delicate and should be avoided.

Even if you're careful, there's still likely to be overspray when using a pressure washer. Keep towels or a mop handy for quick drying and wear shoes that won't slip and slide to stay safe.

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You can save money by doing it yourself, but hiring a pro might be the safer bet. The cost to hire a house cleaner to clean your shower or tub is about $30 to $50 per hour.

Pressure washing services can range from $100 to $750 for both indoor and outdoor features. Renting a pressure washer can be a more budget-friendly option, but it's essential to follow safety guidelines.

Using an electric-powered machine is safer than a gas-powered one, and you should remove obstacles that could cause tripping or falling. Keep appliances unplugged and out of the way to prevent electrical hazards.

Pressure washing can damage your shower or tub, especially if there's pre-existing damage. If you have peeling caulk, sealant, or cracked tiles, it's best to avoid using this method.

A white nozzle, or the 40-degree nozzle, is a good choice for power washing indoors. It has lower pressure than the standard green nozzle but still has enough force to clean the surface.