Can You Use a Pressure Washer Inside the House?

You may have seen a pressure washer be used to restore household objects in satisfying transformation videos. Indeed, a pressure washer is satisfying to watch, and very good at removing years of dirt and grime. However, it is high pressure water, meaning it can damage some surfaces. Of the many places you can use it, inside your house isn’t one of them.

The interior of your house is not designed to withstand large amounts of water, and pressure washing will quickly cause damage to drywall and many flooring types.

Pressure Washing Is Dangerous in General

Pressure washing is very effective at removing stuck grime and dirt because the water is shot out at very high velocity. This tool can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Pressure washers are known to destroy outdoor projects unless done carefully and properly, much less indoor projects. A pressure washer should never be required to clean the interior of your home.

What About Cleaning in a Bathroom?

A small pressure washer might seem convenient to restore your old shower, bathtub, or tiling. However, there are many better options for cleaning these surfaces. I would always advise against it. The pressure washer has the potential to cause water damage to non-waterproof surfaces in your bathroom such as cabinets and walls. Additionally, the power level can:

• Eat away at the tile grout
• Chip and crack tiling
• Peel away caulking
• Remove waterproof seals
• Crack your toilet

An interior cleaning tool such as a steam mop, heavy duty cleaner, or hard bristle brush will be just as effective while also being less destructive.

Can You Use a Pressure Washer to Clean Interior Floors?

There are no situations where it is safe to use a pressure washer on an interior floor. Wood and carpet flooring will be destroyed by the water. For stone and tile, the pressure washer can rip apart the surface, causing cracking and ruining the watertight seal. Then, it will also be prone to water damage. Using this much water indoors is likely to cause molding in the best-case scenario, and crumbling infrastructure in the worst-case scenario.

What Happens if You Pressure Wash an Interior Wall?

If you pressure washed your interior wall, it is probably ruined. The most common wall types are drywall, masonry, and wood. None will tolerate pressure washing well.

Drywall

A standard dry wall will immediately become compromised by a pressure washer. Drywall is formed plaster with paper on either side and becomes soggy and soft when exposed to water.

Wood

 If your wall is made of wood, it may not immediately become damaged, but water has been pushed deep into the wood. This can cause warping, a loss of integrity, and molding. You should make every effort to dry the wall as quickly as possible to limit damage.

Masonry

A brick or stonework wall is also quite porous. This means that the water will penetrate the surface, usually through the grout. A pressure washer will cause a loss of stability and may cause crumbling.

Can I Use a Pressure Washer to Clean Interior Sinks?

A pressure washer is far too powerful for your sink. It could crack glass or porcelain sinks. Additionally, most sinks are held in place by caulking – which will be torn apart by a pressure washer. Instead, seek out a cleaner that is suited to your mess. Vinegar, bleach, or baking soda are standby favorites.

What if I Buy a Mini-Pressure Washer?

Although a Mini-Pressure washer has less power than a full size one, it is still not safe for indoor use. Most of the damage from a pressure washer lies in the quantity of water being used, and the lack of drainage available in an indoor space. You’re going to be better off scrubbing, scraping, or replacing the surface.

The Verdict – Should I Use a Pressure Washer Inside?

Pressure washers are too prone to cause water and pressure damage  for use indoors. Only use a pressure washer outdoors – your home will thank you. If you have a mess that’s too tough for you to fix with your usual methods, we might have an article here that will give you a safe alternative. Some options to explore might include steam mops, enzyme cleaners, and heavy-duty cleaners.