A driveway with lots of stains and debris can ruin your curb appeal. Using a pressure washer or power washer makes for a quick cleaning process to get rid of dirt, grime, and stains on all types of driveway surfaces. With the right approach, your driveway will look fresh and clean in no time.

Before You DIY, Remember This

  • Surface Matters: Concrete, asphalt, and pavers handle pressure differently. A high-pressure setting can damage some surfaces.
  • Gas vs. Electric: Gas pressure washers are more powerful but louder; electric ones are quieter and work well for smaller jobs.
  • Rent vs. Buy: Renting is cheaper if you only use it occasionally. Buying makes sense for regular maintenance.
  • Protect Plants: Cover landscaping projects along the driveway to prevent physical or chemical damage.
  • Check for Cracks: High pressure spray can make cracks worse; patching them afterward is easier on a clean surface.

How to Pressure Wash Your Driveway

1. Prep the Area

  • Get the driveway ready by removing cars, toys, and furniture from the area.
  • Sweep away loose debris like leaves and excess dirt.
  • Use a degreaser or surface cleaner on oil stains and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. It may require scrubbing with a stiff brush.
  • Get safety goggles, closed-toe shoes, long sleeved (power washers produce heated water so protect yourself accordingly)

2. Set Up the Pressure Washer

  • Connect the washer to a water supply with a garden hose
  • Fill it with gas or plug it in.
  • Attach a 25-degree nozzle or 40-degree nozzle to the spray wand for general cleaning (a 15-degree nozzle works for tough stains).
  • Test on a less visible spot with low-pressure setting at a safe distance (at least 12 inches from the surface) before tackling the entire driveway.
Person pressure washes a driveway.
Cleaning a paver or concrete driveway can immediately boost curb appeal. Credit: HMVart / Getty Images

3. Wash in Sections

  • Start at the highest point and work down hill (or work from house to sidewalk).
  • Hold the wand at a slight angle, about 12 inches from the surface.
  • Move in overlapping strokes at a consistent distance to prevent streaking.

4. Tackle Stubborn Stains

  • For deep stains, apply a cleaning solution with a low-pressure nozzle.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with high-pressure water.
  • Repeat if needed, but avoid holding the spray in one spot too long.

5. Rinse and Let Dry

  • Give the entire driveway surface a final rinse.
  • Let it dry completely before walking or driving on it.
  • Once dry, take this time to patch or seal any cracks or apply a new waterproof sealer to prevent future stains.

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FAQ

How often should I pressure wash my driveway?

Once or twice a year is enough for most driveways. If there is a dry spell, a lot of dust, a tree-lined driveway, or you do a lot of mechanic projects, you may need to clean it more often.

Can I use bleach or soap in a pressure washer?

Yes, but use a detergent made for pressure washers. Bleach can damage some surfaces and harm plants. Consider an environment-friendly cleaning product made for driveway stains to protect the grass and plants that are in the water run-off zone.

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Will pressure washing remove oil stains completely?

It helps, but old oil stains may need extra treatment. Consult your model's nozzle chart and use a degreaser or baking soda scrub to tackle these dirty spots.