If your garden fence is looking a bit green for the wrong reasons, the best cordless pressure washer can give it a fresh lease of life. Such pressure washers can also work wonders in cleaning your patio area. What's more, cordless versions free you from the constraints of electric points, cables, and a mains water supply. Jet wash hard-to-reach weeds and get into the inaccessible edges of your patio with a portable pressure washer model that's lightweight and convenient.
Pressure washers vary in strength, from light to heavy-duty models - more on that in the FAQs below. Cordless pressure washers tend to be light-duty. So before you buy, consider the types of cleaning jobs that you want to be able to do. Corded light-duty pressure washers are around 100 bar, whilst a cordless model like the Worx is just 25 bar. If you're looking for something to make cleaning furniture or bikes more convenient, then a cordless pressure washer is ideal. But it's not going to be able to strip paint or deep clean your patio like a Kärcher pressure washer.
Best cordless pressure washer at a glance:
• Best lightweight cordless pressure washer: WORX Cordless Hydroshot - view on Amazon UK
• Best for reliability: Ryobi RY18PW22A-0 18V ONE Cordless Power Washer - view on B&Q
• Best for power: Aguri Power Clean P40 Max Cordless Pressure Washer - view on eBay
Do look at the product specification - in particular, the pressure and the water flow rate - which determines how quickly it will clean. Also, consider the range of accessories, such as hoses, detergent bottles and nozzles, that come with the model. Some nozzles offer a range of spraying angles, from zero degrees to a wide-angle spray tip.
Take into account hose length and battery life too - if you have a super long fence to clean, a cordless pressure washer may not be fit for purpose.
Best cordless pressure washers
Best lightweight cordless pressure washer
WORX/AmazonThe WORX Hydroshot is for people who have small areas to clean. The full kit includes a brush, soap bottle, and a foldable water bucket, meaning you'll have all the accessories you need to make your garden furniture sparkle. This compact 1.75kg machine is 10 times stronger than a garden hose. With 120 litres per hour (l/h) flow rate, 25 bar maximum pressure, and 20V, you'll make light work of smaller jobs.
Reviewers report being pleased with the accessories this washer comes with. The cleaning brush gets top marks for window washing, the soap bottle can be filled with a detergent for extra cleaning power if it's required, and that handy foldable water bucket gets the thumbs up for times when you can't use your outdoor tap.
So you can either drop the draw hose into a water butt, pond, or bucket - or hook it up to your garden tap. Some reviewers rate this WORX option to clean cars, saying it has a superb action for spraying down after a wash and offers plenty of power to clean under-wheel arches.
Pros
- 10x stronger than the average garden hose
- Comes with useful accessories
- Compact at 1.75 kilograms
Cons
- Not overly powerful - it can't clean patios, for example
| Dimensions: | L18.4 x W12.1 x H5.9cm |
| Power: | 2.0AH battery, 2A charger |
| Maximum pressure: | 25 bar |
| Weight: | 1.7kg |
| Hose length: | 6 metres |
- 5-in-1 nozzle with different pressure settings
- Fast battery charger included
- Options to purchase this model with or without a brush accessory
Best for power
Aguri/B&Qwww.ebay.co.uk
The spec on the Aguri Power Clean is impressive - with 45 bar pressure and a 40V battery - it's twice as powerful as other cordless pressure washers. Additionally, it claims to have a battery life that gives 50 minutes of continuous cleaning. It's super lightweight, too, at 1.6kg, ideal for light/medium-duty work.
Reviewers say this pressure washer is fabulous for washing down bikes after a muddy cycle ride and can make short work of cleaning muck off garden furniture.
This pressure washer comes complete with a carry case and includes a short medium-pressure wand, a long high-pressure wand, a soap gun, and a six-metre hose and filter. Reviewers appreciate the fact you can use this washer with water from a bucket, making it another super-portable option.
Pros
- Lightweight at only 1.6 kilograms
- Impressive 50-minute runtime from one charge
- Intuitive controls and easy to use
Cons
- Might be too powerful for some
| Dimensions: | L35 x H20 x W9cm (and with hose L76cm) |
| Power: | Battery: 40V 4.0AH rechargeable Li-ion |
| Pressure: | 45 bar |
| Flow rate: | 3 litres per minute |
| Weight: | 1.6kg |
| Hose length: | 6 metres |
| Warranty: | 1 year |
- 0-degree 'laser' spray head
- 15-degree spray head
- Short medium-pressure wand
- Long high-pressure wand
- Soap gun
- Hard carry case
Best for reliability
Ryobi/Amazonwww.diy.com
Ideal for cleaning your garden tools, this Ryobi is a powerful alternative to a garden hose with a lot less faff. The syphoning kit pulls water from any fresh water source, and the 3-in-1 nozzle includes a turbo nozzle for tough cleaning. Whilst it's not the most powerful cordless pressure washer, it is an effective machine.
This pressure washer has seen success in various outdoor tasks with happy customers saying it's aced cleaning grimy wheelie bins, has managed to shift green algae off windows, and is a classic choice for cleaning cars, especially if you don't have the luxury of a driveway to run a hose to.
Reviewers also suggest it's a good tool to keep on top of outdoor grime in between more thorough cleaning sessions. Use the 15-degree fan spray for general cleaning, and a shower function for rinsing. The Ryobi can be used for up to 30 minutes on a single charge - but please note that this is sold as a "bare tool" so the required battery is not included.
Pros
- Three-in-one nozzle for time-saving pressure washer action
- 15-degree fan spray for tough jobs
- Shower function that's ideal for rinsing
Cons
- Not many accessories included
| Power: | Battery (not included) |
| Maximum pressure: | 22 bar |
| Weight: | 2.56kg |
| Flow rate: | 182L/H |
| Hose length: | 6 metres |
| Noise level: | 86.5 dB |
- 3-in-1 nozzle for tough cleaning
- 6m syphoning kit hose for greater flexibility
Best ergonomic cordless pressure washer
Yard Force/AmazonTurn drab to fab - with a maximum flow rate of 270l/h, 22 bar, and 20V battery, this is one of the best cordless pressure washers from a well-known brand. Yard Force has produced a compact and ergonomic machine that's ideal for light domestic use, with reviewers appreciating the manageable weight and dimensions.
In particular, the ergonomic design of the two-position rotary rear handle means this tool can be used by some who might struggle with an alternatively styled pressure washer.
The 3-in-1 nozzle offers Jet, Turbo and Low-pressure settings for cleaning a range of surfaces. Additionally, the Aquajet comes with a brush, foaming bottle, six-metre hose, charger, 20V lithium-ion battery, a storage bag, and a handy bucket.
Pros
- Three different settings for a range of cleaning tasks
- Power-saving "Eco Mode"
- Two-position rotary rear handle
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty jobs
| Power: | 20V 2.5Ah Lithium-Ion battery |
| Maximum pressure: | 22 bar |
| Weight: | 3.7kg |
| Flow rate: | 270 L/h water |
| Hose length: | 6 metres |
- 20-minute run time
- Charger and accessories included
- Ergonomically designed rotary handle
- Eco Mode - switch to using less water and power and preserve battery life
Best small but powerful cordless pressure washer
Rigogo/AmazonDescribed as robust by many reviewers, the DayPlus Cordless Power Washer is smaller than alternatives but packs a significant punch, with a maximum flow rate of 270l/h, 45 bar pressure and a 21V battery. It's easy to draw water from a bottle, bucket, or any open water source and adjust the nozzle from zero to a 180-degree water spray.
From cleaning chairs and garden furniture to blasting grass cuttings from the underside of a lawnmower, the multi-functional spray makes this model versatile. This gets top marks for a range of jobs, from tough tasks like shifting bird mess to more gentle activities such as watering the garden.
In addition, the DayPlus has a built-in foaming device for rich and delicate foam, great for cleaning doors and window frames. This model comes with 2 1.5Ah batteries, two nozzles, two connectors, a foam pot, and a 16ft hose.
Pros
- Range of spray settings for different jobs
- Built-in foaming device for extra cleaning power
- Comes complete with two batteries
Cons
- Only 18-minute runtime
| Dimensions: | L26 x W10 x H34cm |
| Power: | 2 x 1.5Ah batteries |
| Maximum pressure: | 45 bar |
| Flow rate: | 270L/H |
| Hose length: | 16 feet |
- 30-45 minute working time
- Comes with an additional 25cm hose, extension rod, filter basket, foam pot, connectors, nozzles, batteries and charger
Best cordless pressure washer for battery life
Sealey/AmazonUnlike other cordless pressure washers, this model from Sealey comes with its own 25-litre container to store it away and also provides a convenient water bucket for cleaning. It boasts the most efficient battery life of all the cordless pressure washers we've reviewed, but it's also the least powerful.
Helping that great battery life is Sealey's "automatic total stop system" which switches the motor on and off when the trigger is operated. Whilst reviewers rate it as ideal for cleaning garden furniture, bikes and cars, it's not quite up to the task of removing stains from stonework.
This pressure washer is equipped with four wheels on its base, this, and the fact you get a generous eight-metre hose, means this is a strong option for moving around larger vehicles as you wash them.
Pros
- Long battery life for intense cleaning sessions
- Eight-metre hose for excellent reach
- 25-litre capacity container that you can add detergent to
Cons
- Not as great at shifting muck as other pressure washers
| Dimensions: | 46.5 x 37 x 37.5cm |
| Power: | Battery 12V 4Ah Lithium-ion |
| Capacity: | 25L |
| Hose length: | 8m |
| Pressure: | 9 bar |
| Weight: | 4.5kg |
| Operating time: | 2.5hr |
| Flow rate: | 180L/hr |
| Guarantee: | 1 year |
- Automatic Total Stop System - prolongs battery life
Best for ease of use
Stanley FatMax/Tool Stationwww.toolstation.com
Whether you're cleaning Venetian blinds in your conservatory or washing the mud off your bike, this handheld pressure washer gets points from reviewers as a reliable option for light cleaning tasks. While it doesn't boast the highest water flow rate, it does pack 24 bar pressure and comes with a 5-in-1 nozzle, inlet hose with connector, soap bottle, nozzle, and mesh bag.
Anyone who regularly uses a pressure washer in their outside spaces will appreciate the fact this comes complete with a quick connect adapter so you can run the Stanley FatMax off your garden hose - as long as you're not subject to a hose pipe ban, of course.
You can just also run this washer from a bucket, with one reviewer delighted at how clean this managed to get a neglected apartment balcony with the railings, windows, and floor area considerably cleaner, and with considerably less pigeon poo.
Pros
- Convenient for light cleaning tasks with a five-in-one nozzle
- Comes with a two-year warranty for peace of mind
- Has a clever connector for your garden hose
Cons
- Not overly powerful
| Power: | V20 1 x 18V 4.0Ah battery |
| Pressure: | 24 bar |
| Weight: | 3.2kg |
| Noise level: | 96 dB |
| Flow rate: | 120 L/hour |
| Warranty: | 2 years |
- 25 mins runtime at high pressure
- Quick connect adapter for garden hose
- Soap bottle and 5-in-1 nozzle included
Best budget cordless pressure washer
VONROC/Mano Manowww.manomano.co.uk
If the garage door needs cleaning, you can say goodbye to the sponge with this washer described as excellent by several reviewers. This is by far the cheapest of our cordless pressure washers, however, do note that it doesn't come with a battery or charger. You will need to invest in VONROC's battery system by getting a charger and a 20Ah or 40Ah battery.
The spec is solid, with the VONROC's 24 bar pressure, and water flow rate of 198 l/h. For great cleaning performance at a low price, this is a good option, and it comes with useful attachments, including a five-metre suction hose, a detergent bottle, and an adjustable spray nozzle.
This pressure washer's nozzle is fully adjustable so you can get the exact spray you need for the task at hand. This comes with a special detergent bottle that can be used instead of the regular nozzle which means your washer can be used as a "foam gun" - great for caravans or other larger areas.
Pros
- Fully adjustable nozzle for spray control
- Comes with a detergent bottle for foam-based cleans
- Lightweight at less than two kilograms
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
| Power: | Battery not included |
| Pressure: | 24 |
| Hose length: | 5m |
| Weight: | 1.5kg |
| Flow rate: | 198.0 L/hr |
| Warranty: | 2 years |
- Adjustable nozzle for maximum control
- Detergent bottle included
How we chose the best cordless pressure washers
All of these cordless pressure washers have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered power, functionality, and ease of use in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching pressure washers to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.
Our verdict: Best cordless pressure washer
Get the job done quicker with the WORX WG620E.2 Cordless Hydroshot. You have the flexibility to use the draw hose in a water butt, pond, or bucket, or hook it up to a garden tap. Also, you benefit from a trusted brand that proves its worth with a quality battery, charger, accessories and connectors. Compact and easy to use, the Hydroshot has received thousands of positive reviews and a 4.3 rating on Amazon.
FAQs
What are the benefits of going cordless?
The main benefit of going cordless is the unrestricted access it brings. Save time unravelling the hose pipe and extension cables and opt to clean better under pressure.
A pressure washer makes quick work of cleaning: From swimming pools, hot tubs, awnings, and railings to the crust on your BBQ, a high-pressure water cannon with the right spray tip eliminates grime in a jiffy. When you start to think about it, there are 101 ways to utilise a pressure washer in the garden. And no one can deny there's something satisfying about seeing stubborn dirt rocketed off paving slabs. There are many YouTube videos to account for this.
Cordless models don't need a garden tap in order to use them. A cordless pressure washer has a syphon that allows it to draw water from almost any source. Syphon from a bucket, container, or rain barrel, for example, but equally, a pond or river can be a water source. So, from blasting your balcony to eliminating pigeon poo - take your compact cleaning powerhouse out and about for a spot of spring cleaning.
What can I clean with a pressure washer?
From shoe scuffs to removing graffiti, the range of outdoor surfaces and items a pressure washer can clean is exhaustive. You can clean:
Bicycles, outdoor shoes, garden tools, garden furniture, fences, motorbikes, cars, steps, SUVs, brickwork, caravans, swimming pools and exterior brickwork.
Hard surfaces: Stone terraces, paving stones, washed concrete, asphalt, metal, garden tools
Medium surfaces: Cars, motorbikes, brick surfaces, plastered walls, plastic garden furniture
Soft surfaces: Wood, bicycles, sandstone surfaces, rattan furniture
Before you buy, ask yourself, "How are you going to use the pressure washer?" Do you need a pressure washer for cleaning the patio, freeing the car of mud and grime, or cleaning garden furniture? Or are you needing to blast all the brickwork of your entire house before painting? This will help narrow down the options and determine the power level that you need.
What type of pressure washer should I buy?
There are many options for pressure washers, including models from big-name brands like Kärcher, Stihl, Yard Force and Spear and Jackson. If you shop around, remember the important factors: Build quality, suitable accessories, and power/pressure/flow ratios.
You won't need to spend more than £200 for a top-quality, light to medium-duty pressure washer. For light-duty pressure washers, you'll want to focus on quality and the right accessories to suit you.
With portability in mind, a cordless pressure washer is a much better option. However, they are not as powerful as corded models - so do bear this in mind and consider the scale of the job you're going to be using it for. In addition, their finite battery life makes them unfit for larger cleaning jobs.
If you need a washer for both big and small jobs around your property, then an electric pressure washer for medium-heavy duty use is the better option. However, full-size pressure washers take time to set up, and then you have to factor in where you're going to plug it in. Plus, the hose will need to be thoroughly unravelled otherwise, water will not be expelled at full force.
Finally, it's unlikely that you're going to need a heavy-duty pressure washer. But for the top-end for, powerful domestic machines, take a look at the Kärcher K 7 Premium Smart Control Home. This beast can clean outside walls with its telescopic lance. The 180 bar pressure is strong enough to blast fences and flagstones and give them a new lease of life.
What is the difference between a pressure washer and a jet washer?
The main difference between power washing and pressure washing is the heat. The jet wash in a power washing machine uses heated water, whereas the water in a pressure washer is not heated. Some may say jet washers are more effective on really stubborn stains as the heat can add another layer to breaking the stain down.
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Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Modern Gardens, specialising in garden trends. When she's not flexing her mow-how, Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.