More stories

  • in

    The 10 Best Heated Car Seat Covers to Buy 2020

    While many luxury car manufacturers provide built-in car seats, owners of economy vehicles also value the comfort of a heated seat on cold winter days. To get the heat of a luxury seat at a budget price point, third party manufacturers make accessory covers that sit on top of a seat and keep you warm on cold days.
    The heated car seat cover market is as strong as ever, and there are options to fit any budget. If you’re looking for a brand that just provides high-quality heating, or if you are simply after a set that can warm up your car in the winter months, this guide has you covered.

    Features to Consider in a Good Heated Car Seat Cover
    The way to determine the best heated car seat covers on the market is to discuss a set of features that include:
    Material and Comfort: This is an important factor when considering a purchase of heated car seat covers. Nobody wants to invest in car seat covers if the material is cheap and uncomfortable to sit on. With this, we examined a range of materials and provided the best and most comfortable on the market.
    Heating Speed: When you obtain a set of heated car seat covers, one aspect you should be looking for is the amount of time it takes to reach the heating temperature you require. If you’re in a freezing climate and want your body to feel warm and cozy quite quickly, the last thing you want to do is invest in a set that takes forever to achieve full heat.
    Intelligent Control: Car seat covers with intelligent control automatically turn off once they reach a certain set temperature, assuring that your car seat won’t overheat.
    Timer: If you’re unable to afford (or don’t want to invest) in a heated seat cover with intelligent control, then alternatively, having a timer is a must as it only increases safety. With this, you have the option to set the time for the heater to switch off.
    Bonus Features: Some, not all, heated car seat covers come with one or multiple accessories that can be relevant to your needs. Such accessories include massagers or phone holders, and these features can make the difference between a great car seat cover and a bad one.
    Safety: This has to be the most important factor to consider when searching for your heated car seat cover – especially if you have children within your family. Car seat covers can reach extremely hot temperatures and can cause fires if not handled correctly. That’s why it’s good to know which brands provide the safest sets, and this guide aims to give you exactly that.

    Top 10 Best Heated Car Seat Covers 2020

    1. Best Overall Heated Car Seat Cover: SNAILAX Massage Car Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: The Snailax Massage Car Seat Cushion has impeccable heating speed that’s extremely effective in keeping you warm and soothed.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    This heated car seat cover provides the ultimate comfort. With the standard option being soft polyester and the two upgraded options made of a soft plush material, all three have the ability to keep you excessively comfortable during long trips.
    What makes this brand a top recommendation within this competitive market is the level of comfort it provides for muscle aches and soreness. If you or a member of your family suffer from continuous muscle aches, then this set is certainly a number one contender, as it will help alleviate aches and pains. The cushion has 6 vibration motors that seep into your tissue and muscles to help relieve fatigue, muscle tension, and soreness, although it can be pretty loud.
    Timer
    This heated car seat cover does come with a timer and you can set it using the handheld controller that’s added in the package. With this, you can set a timer of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. The controller also gives you many more options like mode indicators and massage regions, as well as different heat settings.
    Heating Speed
    After testing this product, we came to the conclusion that it takes less than a minute to reach a temperature that would make you feel warm and toasty. This makes it one of the faster brands to reach such a temperature, so it’s good to know you’ll be investing your money wisely.
    Bonus Features
    First and foremost, this car seat cover is designed to give you the most comforting feeling during your driving, hence the 6 different vibration motors it comes with. Therefore, you can argue that the heating options are the bonus additions for this product. However, despite this, the heating options are what makes this product a valuable and effective choice on the market. If you suffer from back problems, it’s the heat that condenses onto your back that really helps relieve some of the soreness.
    Safety
    Some of what makes this product truly outstanding are its safety features. Firstly, it’s equipped with overheat protection so that the device can remain at a stable temperature. The heating pad also comes with an auto shut-off feature so that you can set up a time in which you want the heating to vanish. This is effective for two reasons, as it prevents you from trying to turn it off while you drive, and it stops the device from overheating. Lastly, the cover comes with a non-slip rubber bottom and adjustable dual straps to secure it to the car seat and keep it in place.

    Pros

    Comfortable
    Easy to install
    Multiple options for massaging
    Very fast heating time

    Cons

    The vibration can be quite loud

    2. Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This product contains intelligent control that’s unique and effective at monitoring temperature. It also heats up quickly and puts off a consistent heat.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    This product is a cushion that looks and feels extremely soft – making it a highly recommended option for long rides. You can even use 2 at the same time with the same auxiliary outlet, which will keep you and your passenger warm and soothed throughout each journey.
    Additionally, there are breathable holes pierced into the cushion which improve airflow. Less expensive models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion don’t have this feature
    Heating Speed
    Full heat can be achieved under 1 minute, which is a solid and highly competitive time. One of the best aspects of this heated car seat is that there’s an intelligent temperature system that allows you to choose a heat ranging between 86F and 140F.
    Timer
    This Kingleting seat cover comes with a timer option that is incredibly valuable. It allows to turn on the heater for periods of 30, 60 and 90 minutes.
    Bonus Accessories
    The cigarette lighter has two interfaces and is the reason why you’re able to use two cushions at the same time.
    Safety
    This product comes with a variety of safety features. Firstly, it has a protection device that allows the seat to turn off when the temperature is too high. The temperature will be maintained but if it lowers, it will turn back on.
    Secondly, the wiring is anti-freeze so that it doesn’t damage in the winter months. Lastly, the cover has a non-slip rubber backing. This is upgrade quality and is designed to keep your cushion from slipping while you drive. Slippery cushions can ruin your driving angle and are dangerous. Furthermore, there are elastic bands to fasten the cushion to the seat and keep it in place perfectly.

    Pros

    The Rubberized bottom keeps the seat in place
    The interface is an extension that can accommodate two connections at once
    Incredibly safe to use

    Cons

    No side straps

    3. Zone Tech Heated Car Seat Cover

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: The fabric is a fireproof material that uses Far-Infrared technology for added safety.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    This Zone Tech heated seat cover is designed to give you both warmth and comfort. The heating fabric can easily warm your back which helps to keep up metabolism and blood circulation. Furthermore, if you’re ever suffering from tired or sore muscles, this car seat cover will generate a soothing sensation that will help reduce the pain.
    Heating Speed
    After testing this car seat cover, we learned that it takes around a minute for you to feel nice and warm. We’d recommend turning it on while warming up your car.
    Timer
    This device does come with a timer manual where you can adjust the time you want the seat to be heated.
    Once your vehicle is running and your Zone Tech heated car seat cover is switched on, you’ll then be able to adjust the temperature to your liking using the provided indicator. However, the only options you’ll have are the low setting or the high setting. This indicator is a new and improved remote that allows you to choose a temperature as high as 120F.
    Bonus Accessories
    The only bonus feature to this product is that it comes with additional hooks on the bottom of the seat. These hooks allow your cover to be more secure while covering your car seat – so, this could be placed within the safety section, but as it’s a slightly different way to hold down a cover onto a seat, it’s quite necessary to mention it within this category.
    Safety
    The Zone Tech heated car seat cover uses the technology of Far-Infrared. This feature allows the heat to build within the fabric, which subsequently reduces the chance of the wire becoming lumpy – known as unsafe heating.
    The product also has a non-flammable design, and with it being UL approved, you’ll know that you and other users in your family will be safe from experiencing a fire.

    Pros

    Quick heating time
    It has fireproof material that uses infrared technology
    The straps and hooks join together to adjust the cover in place, so it doesn’t move while you drive

    Cons

    It doesn’t come with many temperature settings. Only high or low.

    4. Best Premium Car Seat Cover: Snailax Cushion (3 Levels Cooling + 2 Levels Heating)

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This Snailax Cushion model comes with revolutionary 3D mesh and fabric materials that are implemented to generate support force and ventilation systems. Additionally, the device comes with a cooling system that is perfect for those hot summer months.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    If you’re looking for a heated seat cover that also has a strong focus on comfort, then take the time to consider this Snailax model. One aspect that stands out is the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric: both revolutionary concepts within this market. The upper and lower side are made out of mesh and the middle section has a unique X90 structure made out of polyester. What this generates is a superb support force and ventilation system. When we tested this product out, this was an impressive and effective feature.
    Heating Speed
    One thing we noticed quickly was the rapid speed in which the heater achieved full heat. We worked out that the cover can reach full heat in just under 2 minutes, which is quicker than  average within this market.
    Timer
    There is a timer with this seat cover, but it’s not as efficient as others placed on this list. With this Snailax model, it only includes a 30-minute auto timer that you cannot change or adjust. For some, this may not be the most ideal feature so do take this into consideration before deciding to purchase.
    Bonus Features
    The obvious bonus feature of this product is the additional cooling system. With this, you could say that this Snailax model is a 2-in-1 system than can be used all year round. If you happen to live in a region with seasons, experiencing all kinds of weather throughout the year, then this seat cover model is perfect for you. You have your heater in the winter, and your cooler in the summer – all with one seat cover.
    Safety
    As many seat covers do, this model comes with a rubber bottom that keeps the cover in place securely. In addition, to keep the cover extra sturdy, there are elastic straps in which you tie around the perimeter of the car seat.
    Additionally, there is built-in UL approval overheat protection thermostats. This serves to keep your temperature at a steady balance that will prevent your cover from burning. This is always a worthy feature to have when considering your next heated car seat cover.

    Pros

    A 2-in-1 system of heating and cooling is perfect for all seasons.
    Revolutionary design concepts include the 3D breathable mesh and 3D spacer fabric
    Program overheat protection for safe use
    Universal and can be used in the home, car or office

    Cons

    The auto timer can’t be changed

    5. Best Budget Heated Car Seat Cover: Comfier Car Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Comfier Car Seat Cushion goes above and beyond in making sure your device is as safe as it can be.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The outer material is made of faux suede and soft plush which allows you to feel nice and comfortable during your road journeys. With additional high-density foam padding, this car seat cover will give you a luxurious and cozy feel and will last you a long time.
    Another aspect we were impressed with was the hemming of this product. At times, car seat covers can start to wear and tear around the edges. With the excellent hemming of the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, this is why it can possibly last longer than other heated car seat cushions.
    Heating Speed
    As mentioned on the product’s listing, it can achieve a heating speed of 1-3 minutes. Just like the other Snailax product on this list, this heating speed is fast and efficient one compared to others on the market.
    Timer
    This car seat cover does come with a timer, giving you the options of 15, 30 or 60 minutes. You need to also note that it comes with a default timer of 60 minutes – so you’ll always know that the product will shut off automatically when it has heated for an hour. However, if you are in need of longer heating time – not to worry – the device comes with a handheld controller that’s one click away from you adding more time to the heater. Not only is this efficient, but it makes it safe to use.
    Bonus Features
    This car seat cover doesn’t come with any standout bonus features but it is one of the more versatile covers on the market. Not only is this tailormade for your car, but you can also use it at home or in your office. The package will include a UL home adapter, as well as the expected car adapter.
    Safety
    One of the features we liked most about this product was the focus it has on safety for its customers. This always goes a long way when it comes to heated car seat covers as there are many out there than can be dangerous.
    With the Comfier Car Seat Cushion, comes an anti-slip bottom which helps keep your cushion nice and sturdy.
    As previously mentioned, with the auto shut off time of 60 minutes, you know that there’s fire prevention right there. This can be extremely useful if you decide to use the product at home. If you do use if for your chair at home and fall asleep (without setting a timer), you’ll know it will automatically shut off after 60 minutes – preventing the product from overheating.
    An additional safety feature is that it comes with a built-in UL-approved protection thermostat that’s designed to keep your temperature at a stable level. Overall, this car seat cover is one of the safest on the market.

    Pros

    Incredibly safe
    Excellent heating speed
    Versatile
    Can potentially last a long time if carefully used

    Cons

    Despite the comfort it generates, it does come a little flimsy compared to others listed in this article
    No pouch for the controller. Increases the risk of losing it

    6. Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is specifically designed to give you the most relaxing experience for your car journeys. We came to the conclusion that it delivers on this promise.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The seat cover is made of soft polyester fabric and is designed to especially give you comfort by massaging your back while you drive. There is a reason why ‘relax’ is in their company name, and it’s because it does exactly that. If you work long hours and want a seat cover that can relax you during your commute home, the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Cushion will have you covered.
    The comfort is generated by six invigorating massage motors that do wonders for your upper and lower back, alongside your thighs. A part of the soothing massage treatment is the heating process. The seat cover has a max limit of 124F, a little lower than products like the Zento Heated Car Seat that can warm up to over 130 degrees.
    Heating Speed
    We found that this seat cover warms quite quickly, but it takes around 7 minutes to actually achieve full heat. In comparison to other brands, this is considered relatively slow, so take this into consideration if you’re looking for one that can reach max temperature more quickly.
    Timer
    This product comes with a useful handheld controller that contains numerous and necessary options. This includes the option of a timer in which you can choose either 15, 30 or 60 minutes.
    When deciding on the key feature of this product, the controller has to be mentioned for this accolade. What’s impressive about this device is that it gives you a range of choices that end up being specific to your needs. For instance, if you just want your back warmed and soothed, then go ahead and just have this option going. There are also different modes you can choose from, including pulse, normal, press and auto.
    Bonus Features
    One additional bonus to the Relaxzen 6-Motor Massage Seat Cushion is the fact that you can use it in the car, home or office. This is not a common theme within the heated car seat industry as many brands tend to stick with producing their products only being available to vehicles. To make this achievable, this product comes with an AC and a DC adapter.
    Another bonus feature is the thick padding in the back and neck area. Although this is considered to relate to the comfort of the cover, this extra padding is not the most common feature when it comes to heated car seat covers – hence the importance of discussing it within this category.
    Safety
    When considering the safety features of this product, it’s apparent that there’s no real emphasis on the safety preventions this product contains. However, that doesn’t mean to say it’s unsafe. After testing the seat cover, we found that the dual straps are completely effective in securing the cushion to a car seat. They’re tough enough to keep the cushion from sliding and they also accommodate a variety of seats – making it a worthy car seat cover for you to enjoy.

    Pros

    Connects via AC + DC adapters – making it versatile
    The handheld controller gives you multiple and thorough options
    There are six different massage motors that target different areas of your body

    Cons

    The heating speed can be much quicker. If you live in a freezing climate and want to rely on a fast and efficient heater to get you warm, this may not be the option for you.

    7. Zento Heated Car Seat

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Zento Heated Car seat model is manufactured to give you a long-lasting car seat cover that can last for years.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The Zento Heated Car Seat is stylish and comfortable to sit on. It includes a layer of thick foam padding and is wrapped in super-soft satin that provides the comfort of this product. The predominant material is made of high-quality soft polyester that generates massive comfort for you to enjoy. With the quality of the material, this heated seat cover can last a long time.
    One feature you will most certainly notice is the soothing sensation that the heat will provide. Ultimately, this feeling helps maintain your metabolism and steady your blood circulation. If this appeals to you, then definitely consider the Zento Heated Car Seat.
    Heating Speed
    Immediately, we were impressed by the heating speed of this product, as it was pretty instant before we experienced the highest temperature of 150 degrees.
    Timer
    This product actually comes with an adjustable timer feature where you can choose a time for auto shut off between 30 and 60 minutes. If you don’t set up a timer, then the cover will automatically shut off after 60 minutes anyway. This was formed as another way to keep your safety in tack.
    The timer allows the heat to have a balance and the seat to remain safe when in use. How it actually works? The controller is very on point and simple to use with just a few buttons.
    Bonus Features
    One aspect to discuss here is that it does come with two interfaces that are connectable to one cigarette lighter power source. As this comes as a two-seater cover set, this is perfect for you and a significant other to enjoy simultaneously.
    Safety
    Aside from the automatic shut off timer, this heated seat cover has a small collection of safety features that are good to know. With this, there are elastic straps that hold the cover in place and does do a good job of keeping it that way. As it’s universal, you are able to adjust these straps to most vehicles out there, including cars, trucks, and RVs.
    Furthermore, this Zento product has UL approved wiring that almost guarantees a non-burnable seat cover. That way, you can spend your time feeling the warmth of a heated seat and not have the worry of it beginning to overheat.

    Pros

    It’s considered a safe product after having UL approved wiring
    It comes with the common rubber bottom which allows the cover to stay in place
    The heat reaches a temperature of 150F – which is one of the highest on the market
    There’s a timer to keep you extra safe and the balance of the heat remains intact

    Cons

    We noticed the heat can take a little time to spread across all surfaces of the cover
    The seat cover isn’t breathable

    8. Wagan Soft Heated Cushion

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is perhaps the comfiest heated car seat cover we have tested.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and Comfort
    The main reason why this model makes this list is due to it being perhaps one of the comfiest heated seat covers around. Although the design doesn’t look very exquisite, you cannot overlook the comfort aspect of this cushion. If comfort is the greatest feature you’re looking for, then certainly consider this option.
    The polyurethane foam is the main reason why the Wagan Soft Heated Cushion is as comfortable as it is. The foam also helps in keeping the seat warm with the heat so this will certainly help you feel soothed during those rides through town and outer city.
    Overall, the soft velour cushion has an extremely soft and durable covering. It’s that comfortable, you won’t ever want to take it off your seat.
    Heating Speed
    After testing the product, we came to the conclusion that the seat cover reaches full heat between 2 and 3 minutes. This is considered an average time within the market.
    Timer
    We’ve already given you the best feature of this seat cover model, by explaining just how comfortable it is. However, on the flip side, this is where the other extreme comes into play. This is due to the product not having a timer, so this is why it comes at the bottom of this list. If you’re going to promote the most effective heated car seat cover on the market, then promoting one that includes a timer is absolutely pivotal, especially since so many newer models contain one.
    Bonus Features
    This product makes up for not having a timer by including both the AC and DC adapter. This means you can use the seat cover in your car, home or office. That way, you can take advantage of the comfort in more than one spot.
    Additionally, the product is easy to store as it can be folded very easily. So when summer arrives, you’ll know you can pack it up and store it away.
    Safety Features
    There are 2 rear elastic straps and 4 cinch straps around the bottom to prevent the cushion from moving while you drive. Furthermore, the safety fuse feature allows the wires to remain safe in the heat as well.

    Pros

    One of the comfiest on the market
    Can be easily stored away for the summer
    Proved to be safe for use

    Cons

    Does not include a timer option
    Reaches a max temperature of 114 degrees. Although this is more than enough to keep you warm, there are individuals who may consider this not to be a high enough maximum temperature – as others on the market tend to reach much higher maximums

    9. Sojoy Universal

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Sojoy Universal provides of the most universal fits on the market. It fits on almost all types of car seats with its smart multifunctional fit system.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    The Sojoy Universal mat uses a polyester fabric that’s soft and is designed to keep you comfortable while driving.
    Heating Speed
    This product requires three minutes to achieve full heat. This may not be the quickest on the market, but it does come with 3 different settings: low, medium and high. Some users note a faint rubber smell when heating the cover up the first few times.
    Timer
    The product comes with a timer, but the only option is for 45 minutes.
    Bonus Accessories
    This product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories.
    Safety
    This seat cover collection is designed to be non-slip, so this is a safety feature that should be addressed within this section.
    Another safety feature is its 45 minute timer option. This can prevent the cover from overheating and causing fire damage to you and your car. The only concern relating to this product is that there is no controller. If you need to switch the device back on while driving, the only option is for you to reach down to feel for the cord and turn it back on. Clearly, this can be a dangerous action to attempt.

    Pros

    Universal 12V heated car seat
    The power cable has a nice length so that it can be tucked under the car console and be out of sight
    Comes with 3 different settings for you to choose from
    Comes with a timer

    Cons

    It can take up to 3 minutes to achieve full heat (fairly slow in comparison to others we have examined)
    There is a possibility of a burning rubber smell – especially with first-time use

    10. Warmitory Heated Car Seat Cushion

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This padded pricey heated car seat cushion adds both warmth and comfort to standard car seats.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Material and comfort
    The Warmitory Heated Car Seat cushion is made of a high-grade leather combined with a high-density foam to keep you comfortable.
    Heating Speed
    Getting fully up to its 131-degree maximum heat in 5 minutes, the seat is a bit slower than average but slightly more powerful than average as well. It’s expensive price is beat out by cheaper models like the Comfier Car Seat Cushion.
    Timer
    A default safety timer is set for 50 minutes and will turn off automatically once it hits that time benchmark or upon reaching a too hot temperature.
    Bonus Accessories
    Although the product doesn’t come with any bonus accessories, it does come with some clever features that help justify its well-above average price point.
    A non-slip coating prevents the cover from sliding around, a problem all too pervasive with cheap, elastic mounted seat covers. The universal plug works with all connectors from 12 volt to 24 volt, meaning this cover can work with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs. It’s also got a 30-day risk free satisfaction guarantee if you run into any problems.
    Safety:
    An overheat protection sensor automatically turns off upon reaching a too-high level of heat, preventing fire, burns, and damage to seat surfaces.

    Pros

    Padded, heated car seat is comfortable and heats up to a toasty 131 degrees
    Non-slip coating prevents from sliding around
    Connector works with trucks, cars, SUVs, and RVs
    Comes with a default safety timer

    Cons

    No bonus accessories
    Quite pricey

    Guide to Buying the Best Heated Car Seat Cover
    Arguably the most effective way to keep warm while you drive in your vehicle is to invest in a heated car seat cover. These covers were created to do one thing: produce heat in your car seat – with the added bonus of providing some padding to keep you comfortable during your journeys. However, it’s important not to rush into buying such a product, as it’s important to pick the right one for your needs.
    In this section, we will discuss the various features that you need to know about in order to choose the best heated car seat covers:
    Universal Fit Seat Covers
    When deciding on the right heated car seat cover, you need to ask yourself in what vehicle it will be used. If it’s simply just for your car and nothing else, then this feature isn’t going to be too important. However, there are many people who like to use the one car seat cover in another vehicle they may own – like an RV or a truck. For you, you may want to use a heated car seat cover in your home or office, so make sure you lookout for this feature while shopping.
    Most heated car seat covers now come as a universal fit, so it won’t be too difficult to track one down. Investing in a universal fit is a great way to save you time and money as it can act as a versatile option to be used in your car, truck, home or office.
    Safety and Heated Car Seats
    A heated car seat contains a heating element that, when malfunctioning, has a small risk of overheating. There are a few things you can do to minimize risk of a superficial burn or an overheated seat when you install a heated car seat cover:
    Frequent Breaks: We’d recommend taking a break every two hours or so to minimize the probability of overheating. Even if you don’t get out of the car, turn the heated seat off for 10-15 minutes every couple of hours.
    Heating Level: Just because you have a heated seat doesn’t mean it has to be on full blast all the time. Adjust the heating level based on your need and temperature so as to minimize stress on the heating elements.
    Physical Concerns: In studies of accidents with heated seats, many injured users experience lower body numbness. Be especially careful and take frequent breaks if you have conditions that cause lower body numbness.
    User Manual: The most important thing to do to reduce risk of damage is to follow the instructions given to you by the manufacturer. Misuse is the most common source of malfunctions.
    Dual Interface
    Do you want a heated car seat for yourself? Or, would you also like to keep your partner or any other passenger warm at the same time? If you don’t like the idea of leaving somebody out while you’re getting warm and cozy, then it’s important to consider a heated car seat cover that comes with a dual interface.
    Typically, heated car seat covers rely on a car cigarette lighter to run. The problem with this is that cars usually contain one cigarette lighter which accommodates one seat only. With a dual interface allows a single accessory outlet/cigarette lighter to connect to two heated car seat covers. Therefore, you won’t have that guilty feeling of being warm while you leave your significant other colder in the opposite seat.
    Why Invest in Intelligent Control?
    This may not be the most important aspect of a heated car seat cover, and it may not be very common either. However, it’s certainly recommended, as having intelligent control is undeniably effective.
    If you’re not worried about the extra cost of having this particular feature, then you won’t be disappointed when you get to use it. Using a heated seat cover with intelligent control will give you the option of shutting down the seat heat when the temperature reaches your set preference. Aeration holes can also help, as seen on the Kingleting Heated Seat Cushion. What this does is help maintain the temperature and prevents it from overheating – making it a safe and reliable product.
    Are You Looking for a Way to Manage Muscular Pains + Sores?
    If so, you’ll be glad to know that there are a variety of options that come with massaging features. Tests have proven that heated car seat covers can help your muscular pains and sore via massaging controls.
    If this applies to you, then strongly consider the brands that provide this significant feature. Many people suffer from chronic back or neck pain and driving long journeys doesn’t help this issue. That’s why the invention of car seat covers with massaging control is tailormade for those with such medical conditions. If you are somebody with such medical conditions or you just want to feel extra soothed during your rides, then this may be the most viable option for you.
    Conclusion
    Whether you are someone who is eager to buy a heated car seat cover or someone who is casually considering the option, we hope that this guide helps you in making the right choice for you. If investing in a heated car seat cover is the right choice, then you could be saying goodbye to chilly winters and be driving in the warmth of your car.
    By reading our buyer guide, you can save time and energy on stressing over what model is the one for you. We have broken down a variety of options and examined all of their best and worst features – just so you can come to the most viable option.
    The best part about our choices is that they all match any budget, however, the more features you’re looking for, the more costly the seat cover can be. Therefore, take the time in reading this guide, and perhaps you’ll find the perfect match for you and your car seat. More

  • in

    The 8 Best RV Washer Dryer Combos to Buy 2020

    There’s nothing like hitting the open road in an RV—relishing in the comfort of a mobile home while basking in the glory of nature within our spectacular national parks. But at the end of the day, RVing is still camping, and everyday household chores require a lot more effort than they would at home.
    One of your weekly essentials on the road will be washing your clothes, which, unless you have a mammoth wardrobe, will need to be done every week or so. Sure, you could pop into the nearest RV park and use their facilities, but chances are the place will be packed, and you’ll have to keep checking whether the washer is free multiple times throughout the day. And to make matters worse, someone always ends up “accidentally” taking your favorite pair of socks—it’s far from ideal.
    A much better option, if your rig permits, is to install or store a washer dryer combo inside. As the ultimate RV luxury item, a washer dryer combo lets you do your laundry on your own time without having to hustle in line at the RV park or laundromat. We’re going to look at the top eight options on the market after this short introductory guide.

    Features to Consider
    Before you start sifting through our eight recommendations for RV washer dryer combos, you need to wrap your head around the concept of mobile laundering. The best machine is subjective; what works for your buddy won’t necessarily be the best option for you. Take the following things into consideration before purchasing an RV washer dryer combo from our list.
    The Type of RV Washer Dryer Combo
    RV washer dryer combos come in three main forms:
    RV Single-Drum Washer Dryer Combo: these have a single drum that does both the washing and the tumble drying.
    Stackable RV Washer Dryer: these have two drums stacked on top of each other, one for washing and one for tumble drying.
    Portable RV Washer Dryer: these aren’t permanently installed into your RV and have one drum for washing and one drum for spin-drying.
    See our section on the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which type is best for your needs. Note that portable models can only spin-dry your clothes; you’ll still have to hang them up to get them properly dry.
    Non-portable models are either vented (faster and more efficient, but require an exhaust pipe to the outside) or non-vented (slower and less efficient, but does not need an exhaust fan). Skip ahead to our section on Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos to learn more.
    How Often Do You Use Your RV?
    Are you a weekend warrior, or are you living in your RV full time? The more time you spend inside your great mobile home, the more money you should spend on decking it out to make life as comfortable and convenient as can be.
    Fulltime RVers would be wise to splash out on a top of the line model with a high load capacity and a low power draw (especially if they’re using it off-grid). Occasional adventurers, however, could settle for a cheap option that covers the bare basics.
    Will You Be Using It Off-Grid?
    If you plan to do your laundry while boondocking (camping off-grid in a remote location), then energy and water efficiency must take the utmost priority. After all, you’ll need to supply power through solar panels/batteries plus water through your freshwater tank. And getting a super-efficient machine will mean less drain on those precious off-grid resources.
    Another crucial factor to consider is your inverter. Is it beefy enough to handle the wattage of your power-hungry washer dryer combo? Boondockers will need a mighty strong inverter, a massive battery bank, and a marvelous solar set up to run a single-drum or stackable washer dryer combo off the grid. Portables have much lower resource requirements, so they’re worth considering if your RV isn’t fully decked out.
    If you’re planning on using your machine via shore power—plugging into the 120V grid and water hook up at your nearest RV park—then energy and water efficiency aren’t relevant, unless you’re environmentally conscious. For most, you’ve already paid for the electricity and water upfront, so there’s no harm in using a smidgen more.
    Want to learn more about the art of washing while boondocking? Then skip ahead to Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid.
    The Load Capacity
    How often do you plan on laundering your clothes? How many times are you happy to wear the same t-shirt before chucking it in the wash?
    Load capacity refers to the total weight of the clothes you can wash in one go. Note that RV washer dryer combos have a much lower load capacity than their household counterparts because they’re designed to fit into a smaller space.
    The Dimensions
    There’s no point buying an RV washer dryer combo that’s too big for the available space, so it’s essential you carefully measure the dimensions before committing to a purchase.
    Aside from width, length, and height, you may also want to consider the weight. If your RV is already approaching the limit of its Gross Vehicle Mass (the maximum permitted weight as specified by the vehicle manufacturer), then you need to be very careful not to exceed that amount. Not only will your overburdened RV fail to make it up steep hills, but you will also be in breach of your registration. And let’s not forget that heavier RVs consume more miles per gallon on each trip.
    Furthermore, weight is especially crucial for portable washer dryers if you plan on moving them around the RV or using them outside.
    It’s a complex choice, but those are the basics you’ll need to choose the right washer/dryer combo for your RV. If you want a more in-depth analysis as well as some other things to consider with your purchase, or you’re new to life on the road and want some basics, check out our full guide below.

    Top 8 Best RV Washer Dryer Combos 2020

    1. Best Overall RV Washer Dryer Combo: Giantex Portable Washing Machine

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: It’s simple, affordable, and takes up a tiny amount of space.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 11 lbs / spinning 6.6 lbs
    Wattage: Washing 300w / spinning 110w
    Dimensions: 31 x 27 x 16 inches
    Weight: 28 pounds
    Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    The portable washer dryer combo is the option of choice for countless RV enthusiasts around America, and the Giantex Twin Tub Washing Machine is the cream of the crop. This wildly popular unit can be found on small and big rigs alike from Florida to New Hampshire and everywhere in-between.
    The secret to Giantex’s success is simple: create an affordable product that works. While other portable washer dryer combos are notoriously fickle, Giantex has built a reliable piece of equipment that gets the job done—and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
    The dimensions here are relatively petite, so most RVers will have a cupboard somewhere to stash the machine until its time to clean. And with a modest 300W for washing and 110W for spinning, you won’t need an epic battery bank to run this little wonder off the grid. And even though it’s famously quiet and easy to use, the Giantex still manages to coax out even the most stubborn of stains.
    Like most portable options, it’s a twin tub, so you’ll need to transfer the laundry into the spinner by hand. Furthermore, the spinner holds half the capacity of the washer, which means double the work.
    Nonetheless, given its low price point, effective wash/spin cycles, and tiny dimensions, this product is certainly our #1 pick overall.

    Pros

    Low price point
    Simple interface
    Small and lightweight
    Extremely popular and well-known

    Cons

    Spinner capacity is half that of the washer

    2. Best Premium RV Washer Dryer Combo: Splendide WD2100XC

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Set it and forget it: this vented single-drum machine lets you throw in a load then go do something else until it’s done—easy peasy!
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Single-drum
    Vented: Yes
    Load Capacity: washing 15 lbs / drying 11 pounds
    Wattage: 1300W
    Dimensions: 23.5 x 22.6 x 33.12 inches
    Run Time: Washing 40 mins / Drying 45 mins
    If you’ve got the space to slip a single-drum washer dryer combo into your RV, then the WD2100XC Splendide is…well…splendid. This wonderful machine takes all the effort out of washing your clothes on the road—simply configure the desired settings then go explore the great outdoors while it does its thing. The entire washing and tumble drying process takes about an hour and a half, just enough time to grill a few juicy steaks on the BBQ as you admire those epic alpine views.
    At well over a thousand bucks, the WD2100XC Splendide costs a fortune compared to the cheaper portable washer dryer combos on our list. Nonetheless, that’s money well spent for the full-time RVer who wants a machine to tumble dry their clothes until they’re all toasty warm.
    Although it kind of looks like a household washer dryer combo, the reality is the load capacity is much lower than what you would expect at home. Having said that, it’s still way higher than any of the portable washing machines out there. Furthermore, you don’t have to manually switch your laundry between a washing and a spinning tub, or have to hang it all up on the line afterward. Consequently, the whole laundering process becomes super easy—just like at home.
    Rest assured Splendide built this model specially for RV and marine use; it’s super sturdy and won’t breakdown as you traverse all those bumps on the road.
    There are a couple of things you need to be aware of before you bash that ‘buy now’ button, though. First, the washer dryer combo uses a whopping 1300W, which will require a big battery bank and inverter if you plan to use it off the grid (connecting it to the mains is no problem, however). Second, this model is vented (find out more about the differences here), which means you need to have an exhaust pipe leading to the exterior of your RV. If you’re A-Okay with these two conditions, then the WD2100XC can’t be beaten.

    Pros

    Single-drum design doesn’t require moving laundry from washer to dryer
    Saves you lots of time and hassle
    Vented to the exterior for faster drying

    Cons

    Expensive
    High wattage

    3. SUPER DEAL Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: In terms of cleaning and speed, it outperforms most portable washer dryer combos on the market.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
    Wattage: 240 W
    Dimensions: 23 x 13.5 x 26 inches
    Weight: 26.4 pounds
    Run Time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    You’ll pay a little more for the privilege, but the Portable Twin Tub Washing Machine from SUPER DEAL is still one heck of a super deal. The reason we reckon it’s so great is simple: the powerful machine runs at a whopping 1300 RPM, which lets it finish it’s wash and spin cycle much quicker than the other portable combos out there.
    And despite the fact it runs quick, the machine does an excellent job of washing and spin-drying your clothes. Expect to get a wrinkle-free pile of fresh laundry with every load, sans those annoying detergent stains.
    Plus—and this is a big plus—you can run the washer and the dryer at the same time, which makes the whole laundry process much easier to manage. So, despite the fact it costs about double that of our cheapest recommendation, it’s money well spent for the time-poor RVer.
    Another cool feature is its translucent plastic tub, which lets you watch your washing in action (handy if something gets stuck). Although you might associate plastic with being cheap, it’s beneficial in the portable washer dryer world because it means the machine isn’t prone to rust.
    On the downside, the load capacity here is rather low, so don’t expect to wash and dry a big pile of laundry at the same time. You might have to purchase a new hose connection, too, as the included ones don’t fit every faucet.

    Pros

    Runs at 1300 RPM (more than other models)
    Has a compact, lightweight design
    The plastic body isn’t prone to rust

    Cons

    More expensive than other portables
    Low load capacity

    4. Best Choice Products Portable Laundry Machine & Spin Cycle

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: It washes and dries in record speed and is a cinch to use.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts:
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: washing 8 lbs / spinning 5 lbs
    Wattage: 300W
    Dimensions: 23″ x 13.5″ x 26″
    Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Weight: 23 lbs
    Best Choice Products do one of the best portable washer dryers on the market. The product is a hit among American consumers for its rapid washing and spinning time and its simple, user-friendly interface. The device washes in 15 minutes and spin dries in five, which is notably quicker than other options out there—and the fact you can perform both functions at once makes everything so much easier.
    Another awesome feature is the filtration system that stops lint, hair, and other nasty gunk from clogging up the drain. That means you won’t have to waste time cleaning your washer dryer after every use—a definite bonus on our book!
    It’s about on par with its competitors in terms of weight and size, although the unit is a little more power-hungry than other portables, something to consider if you’ve got limited juice. It’s also a tiny bit noisier than other options, so think twice about putting on a load late at night in the RV park.

    Pros

    Easy to use
    Washes and spin-dries at the same time
    Fast and effective
    Superb filtration system

    Cons

    Uses a bit more power than others
    Quite noisy

    5. Best Budget RV Washer Dryer Combo: COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This tiny little unit does the job with gusto and fits into the smallest of spaces.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: 7 lbs
    Wattage: 200W
    Dimensions: 22 x 15 x 14 inches
    Weight: 13.95 lbs
    Run-time: Washing 10 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Weighing in at a meager 14 pounds, the COSTWAY Mini Washing Machine is the lightest washer dryer combo on our list and is little enough to lift with one arm. Forget about busting your back by trying to lug a heavy combo machine out of the closet every time you need to clean your clothes. This model gives portability a whole new meaning.
    Naturally, the downside is it can’t wash a big load of clothes at once; there’s a minuscule load capacity of just seven pounds to play with. Nonetheless, if you’re happy to wash often and want something petite and cheap, COSTAWAY delivers the goods.
    Using the thing is super simple, too: fill it with water, set the timer, and away you go. Ten minutes later, it’ll have finished its wash cycle, and five minutes after that, it’ll stop spin-drying.
    One thing we don’t love about this model is you have to stand there and watch the water fill to the brim—there’s no automatic mechanism to stop it overflowing. Also, if you don’t load it correctly with even weight distribution, the spin cycle will force the machine to shake like mad and make an awful racket (that causes additional wear and tear as well).

    Pros

    Small and light
    Affordable
    Easy to use

    Cons

    User needs to monitor the water level when filling
    Spin cycle is problematic without proper weight distribution

    6. ThinkGizmos Portable Washing Machine

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: It’s a solid mid-range option that does an excellent job of cleaning your kit.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Portable
    Load Capacity: Washing 8 lbs / spinning 4.4 lbs
    Wattage: Washing 230W/ spinning 100W
    Dimensions: 23 x 14 x 27 inches
    Weight: 27 pounds
    Run-time: Washing 15 mins / Spinning 5 mins
    Happy campers who are prepared to spend a bit more on a decent portable washer dryer combo might consider this excellent option from ThinkGizmos. It costs about double the price of the cheapest portable on our list, but that’s money well spent if you’re passionate about wearing spotlessly clean clothing at the campground. Put simply, ThinkGizmos is more effective at removing stains and nasty odors than its portable competitors.
    The model is on par with other portables in terms of weight, size, and wattage, although it will take slightly longer to finish a full run (20 minutes all up). A built-in lint filter succeeds at keeping the fluffy stuff from sticking all over your fresh, clean clothes.
    Be warned, though, if you overfill it or don’t get the weight distribution right, it’ll shake itself around the room and make an annoying amount of noise.

    Pros

    Cleans better than most portables
    Has an effective lint filter
    Comparable in size and weight to other portables

    Cons

    Has a slightly longer cycle than most
    Problematic when overloaded

    7. Best Non-Vented Single-Drum Washer Dryer: Splendide WDC7100XC

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: It’s perfect for RVers who want a powerful single-drum machine without vents.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Type: Single-Drum
    Vented: No
    Load Capacity: Washing 15 lbs / drying 11 lbs
    Wattage: 1300 watts
    Dimensions: 33 x 23 x 22 inches
    Weight: 145 pounds
    Run-time: Washing 30 mins / Rinsing 30 mins / Drying 150 mins
    Non-vented single-drum washer dryer combos require more power to run and take longer to dry than their vented counterparts. However, as these don’t need an exhaust pipe to the exterior of the vehicle, they’re the only viable option for RVers who don’t have such a pipe yet still want the raw drying power of a proper tumble drier. And Splendide does the best non-vented model on the market with its flagship WDC7100XC.
    The load capacity of 15/11lbs doesn’t compete with a domestic washer dryer, but it’s pretty good for a mobile home and easily outperforms any portable options on the market. And although the drier might not be as quick or effective as our favorite vented model, the Splendide WD2100XC, it still gets your clothes all toasty warm and dry with minimal fuss.
    The total run time drags on for 3.5 hours (2.5 hours just for tumble drying), but the fact you can ‘set it and forget it’ makes up for the wait.
    Sadly, much like other non-vented washer dryer combos, the construction is a bit fickle and prone to breakdown, so expect to have to repair it sooner or later. Also, the included plastic necks that sit between the hose and couples have a nasty tendency to crack, leaving a swamp of soapy water in its wake. Thankfully, it’s an easy situation to remedy by buying quality stainless steel replacements from your local hardware store.

    Pros

    Non-vented models can tumble dry without an exhaust pipe to the exterior
    Set it and forget it—no need to swap clothes between drums for drying
    Does a great job of washing and drying

    Cons

    Non-vented models take a long time to dry
    Machine occasionally breaks down
    Some stock parts are low quality (can be replaced)

    8. Best Non-Electric RV Washer Dryer Combo: WOAIM Portable Washer/Dryer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The machine doesn’t require any electricity at all to wash and dry your clothes.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts:
    Type: Non-electric portable
    Load Capacity: 4.4 lbs
    Dimensions: 16 x 13 x 15 inches
    Weight: 9 pounds
    Don’t have an inverter in your RV? Then you need a washing and drying solution that doesn’t require any electricity at all! Introducing the Portable Washer/Dryer from WOAIM, a wonder device that washes and cleans your clothes without a single watt. There is a catch, of course: you have to do all the hard work yourself.
    Rather than relying on an electric powered motor, WOAIM has you spinning the drum of the washer-dryer through your arms. You’ll have to yank a cord up and down, again and again, until your clothes are finally clean and dry enough to hang up on the line. It’s backbreaking work, but there’s no denying the concept is eco-friendly, and you could certainly save on your membership at the gym.
    The lightweight design and small dimensions mean you could also stash this away in a small storage space and retrieve it when needed. Do note, however, it has a minuscule load capacity of 4.4 pounds, meaning you’ll be tugging away at those cords for an eternity if you need to clean and spin dry a big load.
    And it well over a hundred bucks, it hardly seems terrific value when there’s plenty of cheaper portable electric models out there. Nonetheless, if you like the idea of washing your clothes with your own raw effort, then go ahead and grab this one to stow in your RV.

    Pros

    Doesn’t require electricity
    Good exercise
    Eco-friendly concept

    Cons

    Hard work to use
    Small load capacity

    RV Washer Dryer Combo Buyer’s Guide
    RV washer dryer combos vary significantly from your typical domestic machines, and there’s quite a lot to learn about the art of washing your clothes on the road.
    In this section, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about RV washer dryers and outline the pros and cons of each type. That way, you’ll have the necessary knowledge at hand to make an informed purchase and can enjoy the benefits of your mobile washing machine for years to come.
    Why You Should Buy An RV Washer Dryer Combo
    Sure, you could get by without an RV washer dryer combo, but the marvelous machine will make your life on the road so much easier. By having your very own washing facilities onboard, you can bypass the queue at the RV park and skip the line at the laundromat.
    Traveling in an RV already entails a whole host of annoying domestic chores: washing your clothes and bed linen, filling up your fresh water tank, emptying your grey water tank, disposing of your black water, refueling your gas tank, and ensuring your batteries have plenty of juice. Having a washer dryer combo at the ready makes laundering a breeze, giving you more time to focus on these other tasks or—better yet—relaxing in the great outdoors.
    The Pros & Cons of Each RV Washer Dryer Type
    Are you confused about the different types of RV washer dryers on the market? Here, we’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you decide what works best for you.
    Single Drum RV Washer Dryer Combos
    As the name suggests, these machines have one single drum that washes then tumble dries your clothes at the push of a button (manufacturers may refer to them as RV Washer Dryer Combos or Combination RV Washer Dryers). Single drum models are the most popular type of non-portable RV washer dryers as they don’t require much space (under 25 x 25 x 35 inches), have modest energy and water requirements, and you don’t need to take your clothes out of the washer and put them into the drier (unlike the stackable model).
    The Good:
    Compact design is easy to fit into your RV (many new RVs have slots where you can plug them in yourself)
    Vented and non-vented models available
    Uses less electricity than stackable models
    Tumble drying will full dry your clothes
    One button washing and drying—set it and forget it
    The Bad:
    Can’t do large loads of laundry at once (up to 15 pounds)
    Longer total laundering time than stackable washer dryers
    Uses quite a lot of water (20-25 gallons per load)
    Sound tempting? Our favorite single-drum washer dryer combo is the fantastic Splendide WD2100XC.
    Stackable RV Washer Dryer Combos
    Stackable RV washer dryer combos work with two drums; the tumble dryer is stacked on top of the washer. Although the maximum load per drum is only around 12 pounds, give or take, the beautiful thing is you can run both drums at the same time—perfect for families with large washing requirements. In fact, stackable RV washer dryers have a comparable load capacity to dual-drum domestic units, so you can get away with washing just about anything you like.
    As for the dimensions, you need a bit more available width and depth than the single-drum variety (up to 30 inches wide by 30 inches deep). But as you’d expect, they’re much higher, usually reaching 70 inches or so. Folks who own a big rig with plenty of extra space may prefer these models as they allow you to churn through a massive pile of laundry quickly, despite the fact you need to transfer your clothes between each drum manually.
    Portable RV Washer Dryer Combos
    Although these machines are called “portable,” that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easy to cart around—some weigh as much as 100 pounds, although 15 to 25 is the norm. The term “portable” refers to the fact they don’t need to be installed into your RV; simply plug them into an electrical outlet, fill them with water, and your good to go.
    The major downside to portable combos—and it’s a doozy—is they spin-dry rather than tumble dry. Spin-drying leaves your clothes damp rather than soaking wet, so you’ll still need to hang them up on the line before slipping them on.
    Portable RV washer dryer combos come with a hose to get the greywater down the drain (don’t forget to hook it up or you’ll flood your floor). Some models don’t even require electricity — you pull a cord repeatedly instead — which is perfect for the RVers with a modest battery bank who wants to launder off-grid.
    As they’re small and portable, the load capacity is low, rarely more than 8 pounds. Consequently, these aren’t ideal for families or travels with high laundry requirements. The entire process is rather quick, however, with each load taking less than half an hour, including the time it takes to put the washed clothes on the line.
    The Good:
    Don’t require installation
    Many models don’t need electricity
    Very reasonably priced
    Each load gets washed and dried quickly
    Doesn’t need much water
    Can easily be moved between RVs
    The Bad:
    Can’t be fixed in place
    Can only wash minimal loads
    Many models require manual work
    Using Your RV Washer Dryer Off-Grid
    While most RVers will plug into the shore power (the electrical grid at an RV park or home) to use their washer dryer combo, those with more advanced electrical setups may be able to run their machine while boondocking. Non-portable (single-drum/stackable) washer dryer combos have high power requirements, however, so if off-grid laundering with these is a necessity, you need to ensure your rig is up to the challenge. Portables, on the other hand, work well with more primitive setups.
    The Wattage
    The first thing you need to consider is the wattage (W), or in other words, how much power the machine uses. RV washer dryer combos typically run between 150 and 1500 watts. If laundering off-grid, you need to ensure your inverter is capable of inverting the required wattage from your 12-24V (DC) battery system to the 120V (AC) system that runs most of your appliances.
    Inverters are rated with a maximum peak wattage; examples include 1000W, 1500W, 3000W, and 5000W; be sure the wattage of your washer dryer is much lower than your inverter. However, the maximum wattage of the inverter needs also to be higher than all the appliances you will be using at the same time—factor in your toaster, kettle, fan, TV, etc. And finally, you’ll generally need a pure sine wave inverter for a washer-dryer, as the other types could damage the complex electrical system.
    The Battery Bank
    The second key thing to consider is your battery bank, which is measured in Amp Hours (ah). As washer dryer combos draw quite a lot of power, they’re going to drain your batteries fairly quickly. If your batteries rarely have much juice to spare, then you should look at expanding your battery bank before trying to run a non-portable washer dryer off-grid. Mighty Max makes superb AGM deep cycle batteries, while SHUNBIN does superb lithium batteries (you can’t mix and match the battery types, so go with the same variety you’ve already got installed). Before buying these, consult an auto-electrician to determine whether it’s feasible to install more batteries in your RV.
    Keeping Your Batteries Charged On the Road
    You’ve got three options for keeping your batteries charged up on the road:
    A DC to DC charger uses your vehicle’s alternator to charge your batteries as you drive (REDARC make a good option)
    Solar panels and the associated controller will draw power from the sun to recharge your battery bank. However, they aren’t especially useful when it’s overcast, or you’re parked in the shade (Renogy are a well-regarded brand).
    A generator will charge your batteries and can even power your 120V system while boondocking. Opting for a high wattage model will let you run your air conditioning, washer dryer, and other power-hungry appliances in the remote wilderness. Still, it’s proper RV etiquette to consider how the noise pollution may affect your neighbors (Champion make a great wattage generator that doesn’t make too much noise).
    Vented Versus Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    Non-portable RV washer dryer combos fit into two categories: vented and non-vented. Every seasoned RVer knows the vented machines are ideal; however, it may not be possible to install one on your rig.
    Note that portable washer dryers don’t have vents because they don’t have a tumble dry function; they use spin-drying instead.
    Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    These systems draw in air from the RV, heat it up, and tumble it through your laundry before sending it out of an external exhaust pipe into the open-air. Although the process is fast, easy, and energy-efficient, there’s one major caveat: you need to have someone drill a hole for the exhaust pipe if there isn’t already one there. There might not be a suitable place to install an exhaust vent on your rig, and even if there is, you’ll still need to pay a technician to set it up for you.
    The Splendide WD2100XC is our favorite single-drum vented washer-dryer.
    Non-Vented Washer Dryer Combos
    The non-vented varieties, on the other hand, heat the air within the drum to tumble dry your clothes. As a result, a considerable amount of steam forms within the drum, which the machine cools using cold water on the outside. The excess water from the steam is pumped into your RV’s grey water tank.
    The drawback here is non-vented systems take much longer to perform the same task and require more electricity and water to run.
    The Splendide WDC7100XC is our top pick for a non-vented RV washer dryer.
    Installing an RV Washer Dryer Combo
    Can you install an RV washer dryer combo yourself, or do you need to get a professional involved? It depends on the type.
    Installing A Single Drum Washer Dryer Combo
    If you’ve got a late-model RV, you might be able to hook up a single-drum washer dryer combo yourself if the water and electrical connections are already in place. Just be sure to follow the manual carefully and remember to bolt the machine down to the floor. If the electrical and water hookups aren’t in place, you’ll need a professional to sort it out.
    Installing A Stackable Washer Dryer
    Stackable Washer Dryers are usually custom-fit into larger RVs, so the layman won’t be able to set these up on their own. Of course, if you happen to be a skilled plumber/electrician, then you might be up to the task.
    Installing A Portable Washer Dryer Combos
    These don’t require installation at all, which helps keep the costs right down. Just plug them into your electrical hookup, fill them with water, and you’re good to go.
    How to Winterize Your RV Washing Machine
    If you plan on storing your RV in an area where the temperature dips below 32F, then you must winterize your washer-dryer machine. Otherwise, it will get destroyed when the water expands into ice (you’ll also need to do this for your RV’s water system). In a nutshell, the process involves pumping anti-freeze into the system, then flushing it out again when you’re ready to use it in spring. However, as all washer dryer combos are different, you’ll need to consult your manual to see the precise steps.
    Alternatively, a professional RV servicing company like Lazy Days can do the whole thing for you for a couple of hundred dollars.
    Handy Tips for Doing Laundry in Your RV
    Doing laundry on the road isn’t quite as simple as at home and may require a little extra planning and preparation to pull off. The following handy hints should help lighten the load (pun intended).
    Avoid doing the heavy-duty stuff yourself
    Washing your blankets, comforters, jackets, and other bulky items can be a hassle in an RV, especially if you’ve got a small portable machine. Veteran travelers prefer to save these for the RV park washing machine.
    Ensure everything is hooked up properly
    One loose nut or a stray grey water hose will result in an awful soapy mess all over your lovely carpet. Double-check everything is as it should be and enlist the help of an expert if you’re unsure.
    Read the instruction manual
    Although RV washer dryers aren’t particularly hard to operate, it’s worth reading through the manual to get the gist of their inner-workings.
    Washers work as a dirty clothes hamper
    Store your smelly laundry inside the washing drum to save space. And when it comes time to wash, it’s already there waiting to go.
    Electricity and water don’t mix
    Make sure your hands and any clothes are completely dry before playing around with a live current.
    Use high-efficiency detergent
    Look for the HE (high efficiency) label on your laundry detergent as the regular stuff won’t cut it on an RV washing machine.
    The Best RV Washer Dryer Combo: Final Thoughts
    The best RV washer dryer combo depends on your laundering requirements, budget, and the existing layout and features of your rig. Today we’ve covered the three main types—single-drum, stackable, and portable —plus provided a wealth of information on how to launder off-grid, how to install a washer dryer in your RV, and and the key points to consider before making a purchase, among other things.
    Keep the information contained in this guide in mind and carefully consider your existing setup and laundry requirements before selecting one of the options on our list. That way, you’ll find the ideal washer dryer combo for your rig and enjoy years of hassle-free washing to come. Happy road-tripping, folks. More

  • in

    The 10 Best Floor Mats to Buy 2020

    While most drivers use the carpet mats that come stock in their car, a set of aftermarket floor mats can provide huge benefits. Along with sprucing up the look of your vehicle, new floor mats can protect your car floor, improve its resale value, and make it easier to clean. And while aftermarket floor mats have a reputation of being pricey, you can typically get a full, high-quality four-piece set for well under $50.

    The Main Factors to Consider ins a Floor Mat
    There are tremendous variations in floor mats, with some simply designed to replace old mats at the lowest possible price and other premium models meant to hold up to intense use and long driving miles. When shopping for a floor mat for your vehicle, consider the following features:
    Fitment
    While new cars usually come with a custom-fit floor mat, aftermarket car floor mats are typically manufactured in a universal size that can be trimmed down to fit your own vehicle. If you’re buying a universal mat, measure the rough footprint of your floor to make sure that whatever you purchase can be properly trimmed down to size.
    Less commonly, floor mat manufacturers will design a mat for a specific model or series of models. Before purchasing this type of mat, double-check that it will fit your exact car make, model, and model year. When choosing from Amazon, it will provide a drop down menu where you can input the make and model of your car to see if it’s compatible.
    Pieces
    A set of floor mats can be categorized based on how many separate mats it contains.
    Two-Piece Set: The most common and least expensive set of floor mats only outfit the two front seats. For budget variations, these can be usually purchased for well under $30.
    Three-Piece Set: A three-piece set outfits each of the front two seats with individual mats and the middle row seats with one mat that extends across the whole vehicle.
    Four-Piece Set: A four-piece mat set typically works with cars that have middle bucket seats, with one mat for each of the front four seats.
    Five-Piece Set: Five-piece floor mat sets place one mat per seat in the first two rows, and one long mat in the back bench seat. These sets are normally the most expensive. Some five-piece sets also include a trunk liner.
    Material
    Most cars come outfitted from the factory with carpet mats. These floor mats are custom fit to the car but aren’t waterproof and, therefore, are susceptible to wear, staining, and even mold. Aftermarket carpet floor mats, especially all-weather floor mats, are most commonly made out of rubber, although occasionally other materials are used. On cheaper mats, traditional synthetic rubbers are used, but as you move up in price, proprietary rubber materials with unique properties can be purchased.
    That’s an overview of the basics, we go into more detail in our full guide, but now it’s time to check out some great floor mats you can get for your car.

    Top 10 Best Floor Mats 2020

    1. Best Overall Floor Mat: Armor All Black 3-Piece Floor Mat

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Famed car accessory outfitter Armor All delivers a mid-range and smartly designed set of durable floor mats targeted and SUV and truck owners.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Rubber
    Famous car brand Armor All’s Full Coverage Floor Mats are a near-flawless offering for a particularly economical price. The standard weather-proof rubber material is deeply grooved so as to channel dirt and water away from the edges, making for easy cleaning.
    Rinsing the mats is easy, just a quick hose-down will wash away dirt, grime, and stains. Interesting to note is that Armor All doesn’t use a proprietary material for their mat, probably to cut costs, although we have no complaints with the simple synthetic rubber they use.
    Patent-pending plastic nubs called Carpet Claw Technology dig into the carpet floor of the vehicle, anchoring the mats tightly to the floor. Since these mats include the traditional rubber nibs seen on other floor mats, these mats stay perfectly in place. This improves safety and ease of use, as a fixed mat won’t sneak under pedals or require adjustment while driving.
    The mats are trimmable with a thinner material towards the borders making the product easier to customize. The back mat, which extends across the full second row, is thinner than average, making its fitting more universal but worsening its durability. The mats come in Tan, Black, and Grey versions, meaning that Armor All probably offers a color that perfectly matches your car’s interior.

    Pros

    Carpet Claw Technology helps these mats dig into the floor, preventing sliding
    Tan, black, and grey colors available
    Thin mat helps with fitting to nearly any vehicle
    Deep grooves help channel dirt and water away from carpeted surfaces
    Simple synthetic rubber is effective and inexpensive

    Cons

    Thinner mat construction is less durable
    No proprietary rubber material

    2. FH Group Black Rubber Floor Mat

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Manufacturer FH Group’s plain black floor mats are simple but durable, inexpensive, and can be trimmed down to size to fit almost any vehicle.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Synthetic Rubber
    In a market that’s flooded with model-specific products and expensive brand names like Weathertech and Husky, it is refreshing to see a manufacturer like FH Group making a simple and generic floor mat that performs competitively at a low price point.
    This set includes four floor mats (two front and two rear) for under $50 compared to the premium manufacturers’ $150-plus price points. Made of a similar rubber, the mats are both stain proof and water-resistant, while the edges have elevated borders that stop dirt and liquids from spilling onto your carpet. Short but effective nib technology keeps the mats from sliding around.
    While all of these features so far are on par with premium models, our personal favorite part of this product is the fact that these mats are trimmable. While front mats start with dimensions of 30 by 17 inches and rear mats have dimensions of 18 by 18 inches, each individual mat can be cut down to size to fit your vehicle. This means that the FH Group mats are some of the most versatile in our lineup, fitting everything from big SUVs like the Jeep Wrangler and the Chevy Equinox, all the way down to compacts like the Toyota Corolla. All in all, these mats are durable, effective, versatile, and inexpensive.

    Pros

    Durable rubber mats can be cut down to size
    Edges have elevated borders to stop water from leaking onto your carpet
    Versatile mats fit everything from big SUVs to small compacts
    Simple and generic floor mat is competitive in both performance and price

    Cons

    Relatively simple mat doesn’t use advanced rubber technology

    3. Motor Trend FlexTough Contour Liners

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: A solid set of car floor mats are made even better by their multiple color options, odorless construction, and grooved non-slip surfaces.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-universal trim-to-fit
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Odorless EVA Rubber
    With six distinct color variations, it is not hard to find an option that perfectly matches the interior of your vehicle. That said, the most popular color of these Motor Trend Flex Tough Contour liners is a universal black that goes with everything. The deep grooves in the rubber help contain water in wet conditions until you can clean the mats. A high sidewall prevents water and dirt from spilling over the edge and onto the carpet floor of your vehicle.
    A couple of clever and often-overlooked features make us love this mat. You get the normal characteristics we’ve come to expect like no-slip nibs and a flexible yet durable material. Yet we particularly appreciate the odorless rubber, as some mats tend to stink up the car with an unpleasant smell during the first month of use. Also appreciated is HEPA compliance, which reduces the quantity of airborne chemicals in your vehicle after installation.
    Other than that, this is a pretty typical mat, with trim-to-fit sizing, grooves for traction and water channeling, and a large single mat for the back seat. The products fit in a wide variety of vehicles, but they’re smaller than other mats. This lessens the need for trimming but also lowers the amount of protected floor surface area.

    Pros

    Six distinct colors match can match any interior
    Odorless manufacturing and HEPA compliance reduces odor and chemical load
    No-slip nibs keep the flexible rubber material in place
    Grooves for traction and water channeling

    Cons

    Small size reduces the amount of protected floor surface area

    4. Best Budget Pick: AmazonBasics Four Piece Heavy Duty Car Floor Mat

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A generic, sturdy, and inexpensive four-piece set manufactured by Amazon rivals more expensive brand names, but at half the price.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Rubber
    While Amazon’s in-house brand AmazonBasics normally gets mixed reviews on their car products, we’re impressed with their effort on these ultra-economical floor pads. Made of a thick, padded, waterproof rubber, these all-weather mats are sturdy and have minimal branding which makes them fit for nearly any vehicle.
    Part of the reason these mats are cheaper is the fact that they simply use less material than other manufacturers, and a 20-inch by 28-inch size for the front mats yields a footprint almost a full square foot smaller than Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats.
    While these mats are technically trimmable, cutting them down to size is a bit trickier than with other models, again, thanks to that ultra-thick construction. It’s a double-edged sword, and although they’re tricky to trim, that design choice means it’s difficult to wear through the mat. Amazon, probably thanks to this thick format, does provide a full year warranty.

    Pros

    Ultra-economical floor pads are made of a thick, padded waterproof rubber
    Thick rubber is resistant to wear
    Full-year warranty from the manufacturer
    Trimmable construction helps customize the fit

    Cons

    Smaller footprint than other floor mats
    Thick construction means they’re hard to trim down to size

    5. Motor Trend Black Deep Dish Rubber Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Motor Trend’s ‘Deep Dish’ design extends up the sides of the footwells, protecting the car floor from splashes and keeping things watertight. They’re also trimmable.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
    With a large surface area and an adaptable footprint, Motor Trend’s universal mats will fit almost any vehicle, and they’re relatively inexpensive as well – coming in at under 50 bucks. This makes them a good pick for a budget-oriented shopper.
    A small of number nibs do a great job of keeping the mat in place, which is sometimes an issue with some options that are trim-to-fit. These mats have a large footprint that extends further across the floor, giving a larger contact patch that also improves waterproofing. Sidewalls create a barrier against spillage, while grooves channel water towards the center of the mat.
    One of Motor Trend’s innovations on these floor mats is its Performance Rubber Polymer Technology, which is designed to be permanently flexible against all shapes of car floors. Since these mats are designed to fit a wide range of cars, they have to be more flexible, but still durable. Their proprietary rubber technology does a terrific job of walking this fine line. They’re also trim-to-fit to further refine the shape, but you’ll never get a truly custom fit due to these mats’ universal design.

    Pros

    Large surface area and adaptable footprint make this mat fit on most vehicles
    Big contact patch improves waterproofing
    Proprietary rubber technology is rubber but still durable
    Priced well under $50

    Cons

    Universal design means it’s hard to get a custom fit

    6. Best Premium Floor Mat: Ford F-150 WeatherTech Floor Liners

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Meant for the mid-sized Ford F-150, these expensive mats are specifically designed for the contours of Ford’s geometry, leading to a perfect fit (and expensive price tag).
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Ford F150 SuperCrew (2015-2018)
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Patented High-Density Tri-Extruded (HDTE) material
    Well-known brand WeatherTech has a hard-earned reputation: with ads in every major auto publication and a presence on the shelves in nearly all auto parts stores, the company is renowned for its wide product line and excellent attention to detail.
    In this case, a patented HDTE (High-density tri-extruded) rubber makes up the material, leading to a durable, cushioned, weather-proof mat that repels water. Fit is perfect, and while this specific version is compatible with Ford F150s from 2015-2018, the company also offers slightly different versions meant for pre-2015 F150s as well as models compatible with the newest F150s, a testament to their commitment to the production of custom products.
    A WeatherTech mat is simply a perfect fit, every time. It’s also backed by a lifetime guarantee, known to be one of the best warranties in the industry alongside Husky’s lifetime warranty.
    So while these mats have just about everything we could ask for, a great fit, durable proprietary materials, and a warranty still can’t make up for an astronomical price (much of which goes to WeatherTech’s large marketing budget). If money is no object, these mats are well worth consideration, but for everyone else, a universal fit set of floor mats like Armor All’s Full Coverage Set will be nearly as good at about one-tenth of the price.

    Pros

    Patented HDTE material is cushioned, durable, and waterproof
    Wide product line means a truly custom fit
    One of the best warranties in the industry
    Company has a renowned attention to detail with their products

    Cons

    Ultra-expensive price point

    7. Husky Liners SuperCrew WeatherBeater

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: An expensive model of car floor mats uses all the design bells and whistles, fits Chevy Silverados and GMC Sierras perfectly, and includes a lifetime warranty.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Weather-proof Proprietary Rubber
    Review
    The best part of these mats, simply put, is the fit. Designed to perfectly position against each and every contour of a Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra, the floor mats slide into place like a glove. High sidewalls mean that the nibs holding the mats in place are practically unnecessary, and these mats won’t move around at all during operation.
    The downside to this is that they’re only usable in two vehicle models, the Chevy Silverado and its GMC companion, the Sierra. Specifically designed grooves and traction pads are placed strategically on the mat, with more traction on high-use areas (near the pedals) and less where traction isn’t as needed (the back seat).
    While a particularly high price tag turns some potential buyers off to these products, Husky backs up these mats with incredible durability, customer service, and a lifetime warranty. The proprietary rubber technology can last longer than your car itself, and if for whatever reason it doesn’t, Husky will replace your floor mats no-questions-asked. Still, though, at up to four times the price of budget mats, it’s a tradeoff that is difficult to make.

    Pros

    Construction uses a proprietary weather-proof rubber material
    High side walls prevent the mat from moving around during operation
    Great durability and lifetime warranty
    More traction in high-use areas near pedals

    Cons

    Price much higher than budget car floor mats

    8. BDK ProLiner Original Universal Fit Heavy Duty Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Using a specially designed matrix of rubber nibs to keep the mat in place, this mat uses big sidewalls and a proprietary rubber that can hold up to years of use.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal Trimmable (Front 27” x 18” / Rear 17” by 54”)
    Pieces: Three Pieces
    Material: Performance Rubber Polymer
    BDK is a California-based importer that mainly deals in inexpensive car floor mats, with this model being their most popular for good reason. Utilizing a proprietary advanced-performance rubber polymer, it is particularly durable and will hold up to many miles of wear and tear.
    Elevated sidewalls prevent water and debris from spilling out over the edge of the mat, although the edges have a low profile, much smaller than the walls of mats like Motor Trend’s Deep Dish Mats. A shorter height makes them slightly more prone to spilling. Construction also includes a grid of ergonomic grooves that help keep the foot in place while driving.
    The most clever part of the construction, however, is the matrix of rubber nibs on the bottom side of the mat. These nibs are highly concentrated in the most important areas, leading to a mat that stays in place practically as if glued. The product, although it’s sized to be semi-universal right out of the packaging, is trimmable for a more customized fit with just a simple pair of scissors. A pro tip—place your original mat on top of the new one before trimming to perfectly copy the shape of the originals.

    Pros

    Matrix of rubber nibs keeps mat in place
    Size is customizable with a pair of scissors
    Grid of ergonomic grooves help keep the foot in place
    Semi-universal sizing fits most vehicles without being cut down

    Cons

    Low-profile walls are slightly more prone to spilling water

    9. Motor Trend DualFlex Two-Tone Rubber Car Floor Mats

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Motor Trend’s performance-oriented mats are available in exotic colors and work perfectly on sports cars and other performance vehicles.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Trimmable (27” by 17”)
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Advanced Performance Rubber Polymer
    Review
    At a slightly higher price point and with some more performance-oriented features like a rubber pattern optimized for traction, Motor Trend goes after a more premium customer with these floor mats. Loud accent colors match more exotic sports cars; red and blue are on offer as well as the more-sedate tan and grey options, although we wish they would have offered a plain black color.
    The trimmable mats have a relatively large footprint with dimensions of 27 by 17 inches, meaning that the mats might not fit on ultra-compact sports cars. While technically trim-to-fit, these mats don’t have as much room for customization as other mats, with only about 3 inches of the trimmable border before you’ll run into the thick, water-blocking sidewall that can’t be cut.
    An advanced rubber polymer is used in the mat to keep things flexible and grippy even after many years and exposure to water and sunlight. These mats don’t crack, split, or deteriorate over time, backed up by a satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team.

    Pros

    Performance-oriented design is great for sports cars
    Trim to fit design can be customized
    Satisfaction guarantee from Motor Trend’s customer service team
    Loud accent colors match exotic vehicles

    Cons

    No plain black mat on offer
    Not as much room for sizing customization as other car floor mats

    10. FH Group Universal Fit Carpet Floor Mat

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: These ultra-generic and ultra-inexpensive mats are cheap but lack the weather-proof features and custom fitting of other options, although they’re good for use in mild climates.
    Editor’s Rating:

    At a Glance
    Fitment: Semi-Universal (Front: 25″ x 18″ / Rear: 18″ x 12″)
    Pieces: Four Pieces
    Material: Carpet
    Review
    These carpet FH Group mats are available in all of the most common colors, from classic black and grey to the slightly-less-common beige. For those looking for a more custom look, exotic colors are also available. Do note, which colors are available at any given time rotates with stock availability.
    The mats are made of a tight-knight carpet with faux leather accents. The top layer connects to a thin bottom layer of rubber. The driver’s side mat has a rubber heel pad to minimize wear while driving.
    While these mats are right alongside the most economical all-weather mats in terms of price, they lack an important feature—waterproof construction. This isn’t a deal-breaker for those who live in mild, dry climates, but for other shoppers, we’d recommend a product that’s a bit more sturdy.
    Our biggest issue isn’t with the material, though, it’s with the sizing. Due to their material, these mats aren’t trim-to-fit like many of the all-weather rubber mats, and for this reason, they count on a ‘semi-universal’ fit that hypothetically works with a wide variety of cars. In some cases, this works acceptably, but on other vehicles, mats bunch up, don’t install correctly, or worse, slide around. Make sure you measure your vehicle before purchasing these mats to minimize unpleasant surprises.

    Pros

    Semi-universal fit works in a wide variety of vehicles
    Rubber heel pad minimizes wear
    Exotic colors for those who want a custom look
    Faux leather accents

    Cons

    Need to measure vehicle before purchasing to ensure a good fit
    Carpet construction means these are not waterproof
    Not trim-to-fit

    Guide to Buying the Best Floor Mats for 2020
    Buying parts and accessories for your vehicle is a big deal: for most people, a car is a deeply personal purchase, and modifying your car is no different. Floor mats are an important vehicle customization that can greatly improve your driving experience, but due to the huge amount of sizing options and types of mats available, it can sometimes be a challenge to pick the right product. Read on to clear up some common questions of car floor mat buyers, and later we’ll go over some cleaning tips to keep your footwells pristine.
    Frequently Asked Questions
    With hundreds of options available for purchase, it’s sometimes tricky to find the right floor mat for your vehicle. Below are some of the most common questions we get regarding all-weather, OEM, and aftermarket floor mats.
    Who Should Buy Aftermarket Floor Mats?
    A few types of car owners are best served by purchasing a new set of floor mats. Those who often drive in poor weather conditions may want a new set of floor mats to make the interior of their car more weather-proof. Drivers who have issues with their stock floor mats should consider purchasing new floor mats, and those who frequently use their car for work may want to consider new floor mats to help protect the floor of their vehicle from heavy wear.
    What Is An OEM Floor Mat?
    OEM stands for ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’ and refers to the products that come stock with the vehicle. If you’re shopping for new floor mats and you want to get the exact same floor mat, look for a product with labeled ‘OEM’ for your car’s make and model. Otherwise, a non-OEM all-weather mat can present an opportunity to upgrade.
    How Often Should I Replace My Floor Mats?
    As with most car parts that wear out, when you should replace your floor mats depends on multiple factors. Floor mats can last for 50 years if you take off your shoes before driving, or they can last for a single winter on a work truck where roads are heavily salted. As a general recommendation, there are two key moments when you should consider replacing your floor mats:
    Visible heavy wear: If your floor mat is threadbare, has holes, or the sides of the mat begin to curl up, it’s time to purchase a new one. These visible wear indicators aren’t only unsightly, but they can also be dangerous and interfere with the operation of the pedals.
    Slipping: If your mat becomes slippery enough to slide around, it is vital that you replace it immediately. A mat that slips around on the floor can get caught in the pedals and cause you to be unable to brake, potentially causing an accident.
    Do I Need All-Weather Floor Mats?
    While all-weather floor mats can be used in any vehicle, they’re commonly purchased for car owners that often drive in inclement weather. Water, road salt, and dirt are the biggest enemies of carpet floor mats, and rubber all-weather floor mats perform better in bad conditions.
    If you live in an area with minimal snow and rain, a carpet floor mat will hold up pretty well compared to a rubber floor mat. If you’re in an area with severe winters or severe rains, purchasing an all-weather mat will pay off over time.
    What Are The Best Floor Mats?
    The best floor mat is the one that fits your car: if you buy a floor mat that isn’t compatible with your vehicle, you won’t be able to use it. Other than that, we’d recommend a mid-range all-weather mat like Armor All’s Universal 3-Piece Set for a typical road user. While more expensive, ultra-durable mats are great for drivers that are hard on work vehicles and need a custom fit, whereas a less-expensive all-weather mat is just fine for the typical user.
    Do I Need Tools To Install Floor Mats?
    No, you don’t need any tools to install floor mats. If you buy the correct size of floor mats, you can simply replace them by sliding them into the floor. For the best performance, we’d recommend a quick vacuum clean of the car floor before installation to minimize slipping. We have an article about car vacuums if you haven’t got one and are interested. If you have a trimmable mat, customize it by layering your stock mats over the new product and drawing an outline for a perfect fit.
    Will Floor Mats Stay in Place?
    Floor mats have to pass legal safety standards to make sure they stay in place during operation. As floor mats are considered a piece of safety equipment, they undergo testing to make sure they’ll stay sufficiently in place during driving so as to not interfere with the operation of the pedals.
    Cleaning Floor Mats
    Let’s look at how to go about cleaning the various kinds of floormats so that your new purchase will continue to look great over time.
    Cleaning Rubber/All-Weather Floor Mats
    Along with being waterproof and protecting your floor from heavy weather, aftermarket all-weather floor mats are an upgrade from factory carpet mats because they’re easy to clean. To clean rubber mats, simply remove them from your vehicle and give them a rinse with water. For stains from salt or heavy dirt, a sturdy brush can go a long way.
    Cleaning Carpet Floor Mats
    Cleaning carpet floor mats is a bit trickier than cleaning all-weather rubber mats. Since dirt, salt, and water permeate the carpet, deep stains require attention and car-specific cleaning products to be removed.
    To clean a carpet floor mat, first remove it from the car and suck up dirt and other particulates with a vacuum. After the major dirt is gone, apply a car-specific mat cleaner (although a carpet cleaner can do in a pinch), and give it a hearty scrub. With deep stains, completely removing discoloration might take some elbow grease. Follow the instructions of your specific cleaning product, as sometimes you should rinse down the mat, but sometimes the cleaner should be left in the mat as a carpet conditioner. Finally, lay the mat out in the sun to dry.
    Benefits of Floor Mats
    The purchase of floor mats has a benefit that goes well beyond personal ease of use and comfort while driving. Generally, purchasing a set of floor mats improves three things:
    Ease of Cleaning
    Carpet floor mats are flawed: they are not waterproof, stain-resistant, or easy to clean. While some drivers prefer the look of a carpet floor mat, most who upgrade to an aftermarket mat will purchase an all-weather floor mat.
    All-weather floor mats are slip-resistant, weather-proof, and stain-proof due to their impermeable rubber construction. To clean, simply remove the floor mat from your car and give it a rinse down. No more vacuuming, carpet conditioning, or perpetually-wet floor mats.
    Resale Values
    Purchasing a replacement mat can have positive benefits on the used sale price of your car, increasing the value of your car should you decide to resell it or trade it in.
    Protecting Your Interior: With stock factory mats, water seeps underneath, causing unpleasant odors, discoloration, and sometimes even rust or mold. A weather-proof mat prevents this, protecting the floor of your car.
    Improving Aesthetics: Aftermarket floor mats simply look better in your vehicle, adding a premium and custom look to the interior.
    Safety
    As floor mats wear out, they can become more slippery, which slightly increases the risk of an accident. Floor mats should solidly grip and fit the floor or your vehicle so that they don’t slip under the pedals, preventing safe operation. Manufacturers have recalled floor mats that are unintentionally prone to slipping under the pedals. For this reason, periodically checking floor mats is a vital part of routine maintenance.
    Wrapping Up
    A floor mat is one of the best, and cheapest, ways to upgrade your vehicle. Along with upgrading the look of your car’s interior, there are also performance and safety benefits. A sturdy floor mat will perform better in poor weather and slip around less, improving safety. An aftermarket replacement mat can also keep your car in better condition, improving its resale value.
    For a purchase that typically costs well under $100, some aftermarket floor mats are an option for any vehicle owner to improve their driving experience, whether that’s to improve resale value, upgrade your interior, or simply to increase your comfort while driving. It’s fair to say buying a floor mat for your vehicle is worth the price, so enjoy browsing our list and finding one that’s right for you. More

  • in

    The 10 Best Car Carpet Cleaners to Buy in 2020

    It’s often you have a spotless car on the outside but a mess on the inside. That’s the case for most people. It’s easy to take your vehicle to a car wash. The entire process takes only several minutes; however, cleaning the inside of your car is another thing. If you have a carpeted interior, getting all of those dirt stains that were trekked into the car after a rainy day, or the juice stains from all of the drinks that your children have spilled, can be incredibly challenging.
    Car carpet cleaners can make your job a lot easier, and are the key to having a spotless carpet. Your car carpets can look like new again with just a little bit of work. By using these carpet cleaning products and bit of know-how, you won’t have to get it detailed by a professional.

    How to Choose a Car Carpet Cleaner
    Finding the perfect car carpet cleaner is no easy task. This is partially because there are so many products on the market that all claim to work miracles. We’ve done the research for you and looked at various aspects of different products to determine which ones are the best.
    We’ve broken down the most important features into three distinct categories: the overall formula of the car carpet cleaner, the features and functionalities that it provides, its ease of use, and whether it can be applied on various surfaces other than carpet.
    Formulation and Functionality
    Most car owners don’t really look at the formula of the car carpet cleaners or consider what type of functions that the cleaner offers, but this is actually one of the first things you should consider. Some car carpet cleaners can do more than just clean the carpet. The formula may also have the following.
    Disinfecting Abilities
    Make sure that the car carpet cleaner is making a difference at the microbial level. Your car is a closed environment, which means that it’s the perfect breeding ground for a lot of disgusting microbes. While you don’t necessarily need to look for a product that contains bleach, you should look for something that can also disinfect the carpet and get rid of mold, fungi, bacteria and viruses.
    Deodorizing Abilities
    Many times, the smell of a dirty car is just as bad as the visual. It’s easy for messes and accidents to start to smell funky or sour. Spills can start to smell funny even if they are only left overnight. The smell may indicate that there’s mildew or bacteria brooding within the carpet fibers. You can get rid of the smell with a car carpet cleaner that has deodorizing abilities. These cleaners have a special technology that can remove odors.
    Stain Removal Abilities
    You’d be surprised at just how quickly messes can turn into stains. Look for car carpet cleaners that can get rid of stains without causing any discoloration.
    Last but not least, look for a formula that is non-toxic and made from safe ingredients. Non-toxic cleaners tend to be more gentle on the carpet and will be less likely to cause discoloration and other issues.
    Ease of Use
    Many people hesitate to clean their car’s carpet on their own. They think that it takes a lot of effort and work to do. This really isn’t the case most of the time. A good car carpet cleaner will do the job for you within a relatively short period of time. Generally, they are fast-acting. The best car carpet cleaners will also penetrate into deep stains with little to no extra elbow-grease needed.
    Possible Applications
    It’s important to consider the applications of the cleaner and whether it is compatible with various surfaces. Some car carpet cleaners can do so much more than just disinfect and remove stains. They can clean up engine grease and they can even be used on other surfaces, like vinyl, suede and leather. Finding a car carpet cleaner that can also cleans other surfaces will make your job a lot smoother, as you’ll only need one product in your closet rather than a whole box of them.
    Another important thing to consider is whether the car carpet cleaner can be used on both dark- and light-colored carpets. Make sure that the product won’t accidentally bleach or dye your carpets or other surfaces, like the plastic trim on the side or the rubber moldings. If they do, you may find yourself forking over a fortune to replace those pieces.
    That’s the basics. A car carpet cleaner is very similar to other carpet cleaners on the market, with an emphasis on powerful dirt removal as car carpets are more heavily used than your average living room carpet. To get a more in-depth look, check out our guide below, but let’s go over our favorite choices that’ll make the inside of your car as gleaming as the outside.

    Top 10 Best Car Carpet Cleaners 2020

    1. Best Overall Car Carpet Cleaner: Rocco and Roxie

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: It’s affordable and has many functions, like stain and odor removal. It is flexible and can clean multiple surfaces in your car.
    Editor’s Rating:

    This product makes some impressive claims. If your stains aren’t gone, you can get a full refund! It’s also extremely affordable, and many people have obtained great results from this product.
    This cleaner is also approved by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). That means that its formula is safe and gentle for all colorfast carpets.
    Formulation and Functionality
    The product relies on a professional-strength bio-enzymatic formula to get rid of odors. The cleaner will release active bacteria that feed on the ammonia residue which is found in pet urine and many other organic materials. This formula is able to reach deep down into the carpet and does a lovely job at making it look, feel and smell like new again.
    The formula is child and pet friendly and can work on a wide variety of messes. You’ll usually notice a difference within 10 to 15 minutes, although you might want to let the formula sit for up to one hour for some of the more stubborn stains. Remember to apply a liberal amount.
    This formula is also chlorine-free, color-safe and does not leave any residue behind. This makes it an extremely safe product to use.
    Ease of Use
    On top of being one of the most affordable car carpet cleaners out there, this is one of the easiest to use. Simply spray the product on your carpet and wait. Use an absorbent towel to soak up the product, as well as any stains that are left behind. For some of the tougher stains, spray a liberal amount of the product on the area, and place a folded towel on top with a weighted object.
    Possible Applications
    This product can be used on many different surfaces, like carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, hardwood, tile, concrete, artificial grass, litter boxes and more. Therefore, as well as getting a carpet cleaner, you’re getting a great all-purpose cleaning product.

    Pros

    Chlorine-free and color safe
    Can be used on carpets, furniture, clothing and more
    Eliminates odors, stains and residues
    Affordable

    Cons

    May need to sit overnight for some of the tougher stains

    2. Best Budget Car Carpet Cleaner: Nature’s Miracle

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This super affordable car carpet cleaner penetrates deep into carpet fibers to remove stains and contains bio-enzymatic odor removal technology to get rid of all the smells.
    Editor’s Rating:

    If you’re looking for an affordable option, then you can’t go wrong with Nature’s Miracle Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampoo. This is perhaps one of the cheapest car carpet cleaners out there on the market. It can tackle quite a lot; however, it can only be used on carpets.
    Formulation and Functionality
    This product contains a low-foaming, water-based formula that is safe to use. The product uses bio-enzymatic odor locking technology to remove odors and stains, and the color-bright formula will condition the carpet, so it looks and feels like new. The formula can easily penetrate deep into the carpet fibers to remove not only dirt and grime, but also allergens.
    Ease of Use
    This product is fairly easy to use. You can use it stand-alone or with a carpet-cleaning machine. It works better with a machine, and by using one, you don’t have to wait long before you see results.
    Possible Applications
    The only downside with this product is that it can only be used on carpet, and cannot be used on many other surfaces. It cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery. As a result, it’s not recommended for use on any other area of the car.

    Pros

    Bio-enzymatic odor locking technology offers a permanent and superior odor removal
    Low-foaming formula that is compatible with any water-based carpet cleaning machine
    Penetrates deep into carpet fibers
    Color-bright formula that conditions the carpet
    Can be used alone or with a machine

    Cons

    Cannot be used on velvet, silk, vinyl, leather upholstery or 100% cotton upholstery

    3. Best Premium Car Carpet Cleaner: Bissell Deep Clean

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This is Bissell’s most powerful formula. It can remove even the toughest stains and is great for heavily soiled carpets.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Although this product is a little bit pricey, it is definitely well worth it. This product is one of the best car carpet cleaners out there because it works well on almost every type of stain. It’s great for heavily soiled areas, stubborn stains and underlying odors.
    It’s quick-acting and despite the fact that it’s more expensive, you’ll actually save a lot of money on product and on time. You won’t need to spend a lot of time cleaning up as long as you have this product on hand.
    Formulation and Functionality
    One of the main reasons why this product is so effective is because it contains 4 times more active ingredients than many of the leading competitive products. It’s also Safer Choice Certified, and dye and phosphate-free. This product also does not contain any heavy metals or optical brighteners. The formula can protect your carpet from future stains, and it is children, pet and environmentally friendly. It can also remove tough odors.
    While most people reserve this product for tough, stubborn stains and heavily soiled areas, it can also be used for simpler cleaning jobs. It’s extremely effective at cleaning up food and beverage soils, pet stains, blood, oil, grease and makeup.
    Ease of Use
    This product is extremely easy to use, but it is for machine-use only. All you have to do is pour about 2.5 fluid ounces of the cleaner into a carpet cleaning machine (this is Bissell’s own), and that’s it! However, due to the need for a machine, it significantly adds to an already premium price tag.
    Possible Applications
    This product is only safe on carpet, area rugs and upholstery. It should not be used on any other surfaces.

    Pros

    Great for tough, stubborn stains and odors
    Contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes
    Safe for kids and pets
    Environmentally-friendly and biodegradable
    A portion of proceeds go towards the BISSELL Pet Foundation

    Cons

    Machine-use only

    4. Best for Quick Fixes: Folex Carpet Spot Remover

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Watch stains magically disappear in front of your eyes with this product. It’s fast-acting and quick-drying, so you’ll get the cleaning done in just half the time.
    Editor’s Rating:

    The one thing that most people hate doing is waiting. They want instantaneous results, and you can get that with the Folex Carpet Spot Remover. This company has been around for over 30 years and know what they’re doing! There’s a reason why they’re one of the most highly recommended car carpet cleaning solutions out there.
    Formulation and Functionality
    The water-based formula is non-toxic, non-flammable and odor-free. It relies on a surfactant as an emulsifying agent to remove stains, and is effective on auto oil, grease, dirt, food messes, makeup, grass stains, pet accidents and more. The formula is both colorfast and color stable.
    Ease of Use
    This product is perhaps one of the easiest products to use. All you have to do is spray on the solution on the area of the carpet that needs to be cleaned and then wipe it off or wait for it to dry. No rinsing or vacuuming necessary! You’ll see the stains disappear before your eyes. For some of the tougher stains, you may have to apply the solution more than once.
    Possible Applications
    This product can be used on carpet and all surfaces that can be dampened with water. It can safely be used on upholstery, clothing, draperies, walls, woodwork and more.

    Pros

    No rinsing or vacuuming needed
    Instant results
    Non-toxic and non-irritating to normal skin
    Does not leave behind any residue
    Affordable

    Cons

    May require more than one treatment to completely remove all stains

    5. Best All-Purpose Cleaner: CarGuys Super Cleaner

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This product can be used to clean all surfaces of your car! The deep cleaning formula can even act as an engine degreaser!
    Editor’s Rating:

    This product has more than one application. Not only can it clean the carpets, but it can also act as an engine degreaser. It can also be applied on anything plastic, rubber or vinyl. It’s super convenient to have a bottle of this stuff in your garage, as it will clean up all types of messes and stains. You can replace your cabinet of cleaning supplies and solutions with just one bottle of this stuff.
    This product comes with a fully adjustable nozzle and a comfortable ergonomic handle. The slim neck packaging makes it easy to hold, and the wider base prevents accidental tipping when you’re working.
    Formulation and Functionality
    This product uses one of the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift away dirt, grime and stains at the molecular level. The product contains no ammonia and harmful chemicals, and the product can get rid of almost all types of messes such as engine grease.
    Ease of Use
    Just spray and wait for the product to work. This product relies on a water-based polymer formula, so it’s not only safe, but does not need to be rinsed with water. Just spray and wipe it away!
    Possible Applications
    Get rid of a cabinet of cleaners and replace them with this highly effective product. This cleaning product is a favorite among car owners because it can be used to remove odors, dirt, grime and stains from the carpet and upholstery. It also removes stains and scuffs on leather and vinyl. You can clean the floor mats, tires and trims easily with it too.
    It’s also effective at removing bird poop, bugs and tree sap from the exterior surface as well as grease from the engines.
    It can clean just about anything, and can be used on the following surfaces: upholstery, fabric, leather, canvas, vinyl, plastic, metal, wood trim and rubber. It does not leave behind any residue at all.
    The only surface that this product cannot be used on is glass.

    Pros

    All-purpose formula with various applications
    Uses the newest advancements in nanotechnology to lift stains
    Water-based formula
    Contains no ammonia or harmful chemicals
    100% risk-free guarantee

    Cons

    Packaging can leak if not stored properly

    6. Best for Pet-Owners: Bissell Professional Pet Urine Eliminator

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: It’s great for cleaning up messes created by your pets. It also protects the carpet from future stains, and works well on all types of carpets.
    Editor’s Rating:

    This product is great for pet owners who want to get pet stains and odors away from their carpets. It’s easy to use, and works well on heavily trafficked areas. It also protects the carpet from future stains. Best of all, this product offers a Febreeze clean and uses the power of oxy to get rid of unwanted smells! Your car will smell fresh and clean after every use.
    You’ll also feel good about purchasing this product because a portion of the proceeds goes towards the Bissell Pet Foundation, a charity that helps save homeless pets. Although it’s mainly formulated for pet messes, this product will also work well on other messes as well.
    Formulation and Functionality
    The formula is safe for children and pets, and contains no heavy metals, phosphates or dyes. The detergent is biodegradable, so it’s also earth-friendly.
    This product contains 3 times more active ingredients than many other leading competitive formulas, can protect your carpets from future stains, and can get rid of both stains and odors.
    This product contains a 2X concentrated formula that will work to get rid of even the toughest stains. It also penetrates deep into the carpet to get rid of all odors. Your pets aren’t going to mark that area of the carpet again.
    Ease of Use
    This product should ideally be used with machines only, although you can simply pour a little bit of the product on pet messes.
    Possible Applications
    This product can be used on upholstery and all types of carpets. The manufacturer recommends pre-treating a small section of the carpet first just to confirm that it won’t stain or discolor the carpet.

    Pros

    Great value for the price
    Safe for pets and children
    2X concentrated formula
    Biodegradable
    Removes pet stains and odors

    Cons

    Doesn’t work as well with petroleum-based messes
    Machine-use only

    7. Carpet Miracle Carpet Cleaner and Deodorizer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This car carpet cleaner is great for pet owners and can remove all pet messes and odors with ease.
    Editor’s Rating:

    If your primary concern is that your pets make a huge mess on your car carpets, then this is the product you need. This product is made in the USA, and Sunny & Honey, the parent company, donates 10% of all profits to charities that help animals in need. It’s one of the more affordable carpet cleaners out there. It’s also Leaping Bunny Certified.
    Formulation and Functionality
    The formula is biodegradable and non-toxic. It also contains no harsh chemicals, but it is very concentrated, so a little amount can get most jobs done. The product is children-friendly, earth-friendly and also pet-friendly. It works wonders on pet messes, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time with your fur baby.
    Ease of Use
    This product is relatively easy to use. It’s compatible with a lot of cleaning machines. It is, however, for machine-use only. This product is best used on organic messes caused by pets.
    Possible Applications
    This product works well on carpets, rugs and upholstery. It can also be used on leather or faux leather seats.

    Pros

    100% guarantee
    Biodegradable and non-toxic
    Removes even the toughest stains with just one application
    Works well with several types of machines
    Color-safe

    Cons

    Isn’t as effective on petroleum-based messes
    Is for machine-use only

    8. Biokleen Carpet and Rug Shampoo

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This carpet cleaner is made from natural enzymes and is environmentally-friendly. It contains no fragrances or artificial colors, and can easily destroy even the toughest stains.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Many people have sensitive noses or are allergic to fragrances. If you’re looking for a scent-free, environmentally-friendly car carpet cleaner, then the Biokleen Carpet and Rug Shampoo is just what you need. The interesting thing about this product is that it relies on enzyme cultures to eat away the messes and get rid of odors. Even the most discerning noses won’t be able to detect any odors and scents after the cleaner has done its job.
    Formulation and Functionality
    The formula is plant-based and contains both enzyme cultures and citrus extracts. It works well on organic messes, but is less effective on petroleum or chemical-based messes. However, if your kid spills their drink in the car (or if they puke), this car carpet cleaner will easily remove odors and get rid of any stains. The formula is non-toxic and safe to use around chemicals and pets. It’s fragrance-free and also contains no artificial colors.
    Ease of Use
    Just pour some of the product out onto the stained area or onto the carpet and you’re good to go. This full-strength formula does not need to be further diluted. You will have to wait for it to dry, so make sure that you open all of the windows for proper ventilation.
    Possible Applications
    This car carpet cleaner can be used on all carpets and upholstery within your car and in your home. Although effective in the short-term, it’s not great for leather and many other fabrics, so be wary of over-using it on this surface.

    Pros

    Ultra-concentrated for less waste and more savings
    Environmentally-friendly and recyclable
    Not tested on animals
    Plant-based formula containing no phosphates, chlorine, ammonia and other harsh chemicals
    Removes odors and stains

    Cons

    Works only on organic messes
    Takes some time to dry

    9. Best Dry Carpet Cleaner: Capture Carpet Powder

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: You don’t need a lot of powder to clean a small carpet area. Powder cleaners also last a long time. One tub can last years!
    Editor’s Rating:

    Most people don’t realize that car carpet cleaners can also come in the form of dry powder. This type of cleaning solution is easy to work with and a little goes a long way. In fact, just one pail of this powder can clean up to 400 square feet! You’ll have enough to clean your carpets for years! Another benefit of choosing dry powder is that it doesn’t go bad, and the powder will be just as effective years down the road.
    Many people prefer dry powder because wet cleaners add moisture to the carpet. Those who don’t clean the wet cleaners up properly may end up with mildew. This may also prolong the life of the carpet, so it looks pristine for as long as possible.
    Although dry powder is easy to work with and has many advantages, you will need some tools. You’ll need to brush the powder into the carpet using circular motions and vacuum it off the carpet afterward. This type of cleaning solution can be a bit time-consuming to use.
    Formulation and Functionality
    One pail can last for years. The pails come with a resealable lid for easy storage, and the formula will remove odors, stains and dirt. It locks onto stains to prevent them from spreading. The formula is also non-toxic and safe for kids and pets. This formula will remove moisture from carpets as well.
    Ease of Use
    This product isn’t necessarily the easiest to use. You need to brush the product into the carpet and then vacuum it up. The manufacturer also recommends using a pre-mist spray on the carpet for tougher stains. To get the most out of the product, you should also use a sifter to apply the powder, so that only a fine layer of the product is on the carpet.
    Possible Applications
    This product can be used on carpets, rugs, upholstery, furniture, sofa and couches. It is also safe for all types of carpets, like wool and code s fabric carpets.

    Pros

    One pail cleans up to 400 square feet
    Locks in stains and prevent them from spreading
    Extremely affordable
    Removes dirt, odor, stains and moisture
    Safe for all types of carpets

    Cons

    Requires brushing and vacuuming
    Needs pre-misting for tougher stains

    10. Hoover CleanPlus Concentrated Solution

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This car carpet cleaner smells amazing. If you’re looking for that clean, linen scent, this is what you need!
    Editor’s Rating:

    The Hoover CleanPlus concentrated solution is one of the best smelling car carpet cleaners on our list. You’ll get that lovely fresh linen scent that will remind you of fresh laundry. Another thing that we like about this product is that it’s made in the USA. The only downside about this product is that the fragrance can irritate some sensitive noses. If you have a fragrance allergy, you might want to consider staying away from this product.
    Formulation and Functionality
    This car carpet cleaner is a powerful concentrated detergent solution that can tackle stains, odors, dirt and grime. It’s phosphate-free, non-toxic and even septic safe. This product is highly concentrated, so you only need to use a little bit to get rid of tough stains.
    Ease of Use
    As the product is very concentrated, you only need a little bit. This product is super easy to use, and can even be used with any deep cleaning machine for a more thorough clean. For the toughest stains, we recommend applying the Hoover Pre-Treat Spray with this cleaner.
    Possible Applications
    This detergent solution can be used on carpets, area rugs, car interiors and upholstery. One product can get a lot of cleaning done!

    Pros

    Lovely fresh linen scent
    Can be used on home upholstery and carpets
    Offers a powerful, deep clean
    Concentrated solution so a little goes a long way
    Made in the USA

    Cons

    Not ideal for those with sensitive noses or fragrance allergies

    A Complete Guide to Car Carpet Cleaners
    It’s never a bad idea to have a can or jar of car carpet cleaner in your house. You never know when you’ll need to clean up a mess or spill. There are so many products out there that there’s bound to be one that will meet all of your requirements and needs.
    Factors to Consider When Purchasing Car Carpet Cleaners
    Finding the right car carpet cleaner is no easy task. Other than the formulation and functionality, ease of use and possible applications, there are a lot of other factors that you need to take into consideration in order to find a cleaner that meets all your needs. Some other factors to consider include:
    The Scent
    Some people absolutely love a nicely scented cleaner, while those with sensitive noses may prefer something that’s unscented. If the car carpet cleaner is unscented, you’ll need to consider whether it has a natural smell from the chemicals that it contains. Some popular scents for car carpet cleaners include lavender, lemon and even mint. These scents can leave your car smelling fresh and new. This is a good choice if you like your cleaners to smell nice.
    Overall Price
    Don’t just look at the total price when considering the cost of a car carpet cleaner. Consider the amount of product that you get and the amount of product that you’ll have to use to get the desired results. If you’re concerned about price, go for this one.
    The Amount
    If you’re a soccer mom who is constantly taking your kids to soccer practice, you’re likely going to clean the carpets a lot more often than someone who happens to stay at home more often. It’d be in your best interest to look for a product that comes in a larger volume, so that one purchase can last for numerous cleanings.
    Some consumers may also want to consider the type of packaging that the product comes in and whether the product is environmentally-friendly. Think about what you need before you start on your quest to find the perfect car carpet cleaner.
    Useful Supplemental Tools to Have
    Most of the car carpet cleaners that we’ve outlined in our guide can be used by themselves, or at least with a machine; however, if you have any of the following additional tools, you can also use them to expedite the cleaning process:
    Carpet Steamers
    Carpet steamers are great for cleaning particularly dirty carpets in no time. These machines use both suction and piping hot water to dislodge and remove dirt and debris. Some of these machines even have a place for you to add a car carpet cleaner. For an easier cleaning job, look for carpet steamers that are cordless.
    Scrub Brushes with Tough Bristles
    These brushes are best for getting tough stains out of carpets. They’ll loosen any dirt or debris that may be embedded within the carpet fibers for a more thorough clean. It’s best to avoid wire brushes, as these are best reserved for harder surfaces, like concrete or tiles. These tools are also great to have on hand for other cleaning tasks, and they’re extremely affordable.
    Wet-Dry Vacuums
    Wet and dry vacuums are similar to regular vacuums, but they can handle both liquid spills and dry messes. These vacuums are great for heavy cleaning and require very little maintenance. The only downside is that the filters need to be changed regularly.
    Supplemental tools can enhance the overall effectiveness of the cleaning product, and can also make the cleaning job a lot easier to handle.
    The Different Types of Car Carpet Cleaners
    There are quite a few different car carpet cleaners on the market. The type that will be the best fit for your car will depend on your needs. For example, if you take your dog on muddy hikes all the time, you might want to find something that will not only get rid of the dirt, but also any unpleasant odors. If there are a lot of nooks and crannies in your car, you might need a carpet cleaner that can get into those hard-to-reach areas. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of car carpet cleaners below.
    Aerosol
    Aerosol spray cans are very popular when it comes to car carpet cleaners, as they offer a powerful foaming action that can evenly distribute the cleaning solution everywhere. One can of these products can usually easily clean a four-door sedan with a moderate amount of dirt and stains. These products also tend to have a longer shelf life, as the contents inside are protected from light and air. Aerosol containers are also typically considered to be safer and more durable in comparison to other types of packaging. They’re leak-proof, so they’re great for packing some of the stronger chemicals that may be used for cleaning carpets.
    Deodorizing
    Many car carpet cleaners are marketed as deodorizers as well. These cleaners will get rid of any unwanted scents and odors that may linger in your car using powerful encapsulating agents.
    These cleaners do not simply cover up the odor using a fragrance. Instead, the encapsulating agents will bond with the odor molecules to permanently change their structure and eliminate them. Deodorizers add a fresh scent and offer long-lasting results. They neutralize the odor at its source and remove it forever.
    Dry Powder
    Dry carpet cleaners are not as popular as wet ones; however, these products are definitely worth looking at. These cleaning products rely on small, porous beads to attract all of the dirt and debris in the carpet. All you have to do is sprinkle some of the dry carpet cleaner powder onto the carpet and let it do its job. To remove the cleaner, simply vacuum it up. It’s fast, simple and easy!
    There are many benefits to using a dry product. Carpet fibers are quite absorbent, and may absorb the water of wet detergents and cleaning solutions. This means that a small amount of residue may be left behind in the carpet, and this residue may end up damaging the carpet fibers in the long run. Some people believe that there’s a chance that wet products may worsen localized soiling. Dry cleaning products may also prevent mold and mildew growth.
    Spray Bottle
    Many people like car carpet cleaners packaged in spray bottles, especially if they don’t want to deal with the foaming power of aerosol or other types of packaging. With that said, it’s easy to aim the nozzle at a specific area and soak one spot of the carpet. This is why these cleaners will typically have formulas that target deep stains. Spray bottles can also help you aim at hard-to-reach areas with more ease.
    Liquid Solutions
    You can also purchase a huge tub or jar of cleaning solution. All you have to do is pour some of that solution onto the carpet and let it sit. Some of these liquid solutions are very concentrated, and you’ll need to dilute them first.
    Five Tips and Tricks on How to Clean Your Car Carpets
    You don’t need to be a professional to get your car carpets looking like new. All you need is a little experience, skill and the right car carpet cleaner like our top overall pick. If you’ve never tried cleaning your car’s carpet before, here are five tips and tricks that will help.
    #1. Remove All Visible Debris, Trash and Items
    To get a good clean, you’ll want to apply the car carpet cleaning solution evenly. This means that you should remove all visible debris, trash and other items to ease the overall process. If the seats are in the way, move them forward or back. If they’re removable, you may even want to consider removing the seats entirely. Remove your car’s floor mats as well.
    #2. ALWAYS Vacuum the Carpet Thoroughly First
    A portable vacuum cleaner will come in handy when cleaning your carpets. Use special vacuum attachments to get into hard-to-reach areas, like under the seats. You want to get out as much dirt, grime, dust and crumbs as possible before applying the car carpet cleaner, so that it can easily penetrate deep into the carpet.
    #3. Brush in the Cleaner Using Circular Motions
    After letting the cleaner sit for several minutes, you’ll want to start brushing it into the carpet using circular motions. You should still do this even if you’re using an instant car carpet cleaner. With an instant car carpet cleaner, however, you’ll notice that the formula will start to dry within seconds, so you’ll need to start brushing within 1 to 2 seconds of applying it to your carpet.
    Brushing in the car carpet cleaner using circular motions will help bring out dirt and grime that are locked in the carpet fibers. It can also help more efficiently remove some of the more stubborn stains that may have been sitting in your carpet for some time now.
    #4. “Rinse” the Carpet with a Damp Cloth
    While this is not always useful, some car carpet cleaners may recommend that you use a damp cloth to “rinse” the carpet afterward in order to remove as much residue as possible. This may also help in facilitating quicker drying. If you want to be fancy, you can even use a microfiber cloth. It’ll be gentler on the carpet fibers.
    #5. Open All Doors and Windows for Faster Drying
    Last but not least, keep all your doors and windows open when cleaning the carpets. This will help facilitate quicker drying, so you’ll get the job done in half the time. It’ll also prevent any mold, fungi or damp-loving microbes from finding a home in your car.
    Check out this DIY video below for a more detailed walkthrough on how to clean the carpet in your car.
    [embedded content]
    The Right Car Carpet Cleaner
    Most car carpet cleaners will work like a charm. Dispense a little bit of product at a time, as a little can go a long way. If you find that there’s still a stain, or if you’re simply unhappy with the results, consider cleaning the carpets a few more times before calling it quits. This is especially true for pesky stains that you’ve allowed to sit for years. Soon, your car will be clean inside and out, and you can be happy with a job well done. More

  • in

    The 10 Best Pressure Washers for Cars in 2020

    Driving your vehicle through a fancy drive-through car wash is effective, and it’s even entertaining if you have little kids as passengers. However, there’s no denying that the cost adds up over time. Hand washing your vehicle at home is another great option but not everyone enjoys an afternoon in the sun meticulously scrubbing off every little spot.
    A terrific middle ground for the person who wants a high-quality wash without the time commitments of hand scrubbing is a pressure washer. Maintaining a clean car does not only look better, but it actually helps preserve the life of the car and can ward off the threat of rust from built-up grime and salt.

    How to Choose the Best Pressure Washer
    Owning your own pressure washer means you have the convenience of getting a perfect wash without even needing to leave your home. There are numerous washers on the market, each offering a different experience. Here are factors to consider before making a purchase.
    Ease of Use
    Think of who will be the primary user of the pressure washer and take that into consideration. Washers come in a range of weight, portability, and ease of operating.
    Strength of Spray
    Lightweight pressure washers are wonderful for small jobs around the house and minor maintenance sprays between car washes. They don’t pack the same punch as a more heavy-duty pressure washer which, while more versatile, is also more difficult to move around.
    Gas or Electric?
    Gas pressure washers have the convenience of being moved around without a wire tethering it to a limited area. Yet, electric washers mean you never have to remember to have the fuel on hand; you only need to plug it in. Gas pressure washers usually produce more power than electric ones, and are often more rugged and can handle more hazardous terrain. What’s more, the fact you don’t need to plug it in means you can take your gas pressure washer anywhere, while electric pressure washers will have to be anchored to a power source.
    Water Consumption
    Pressure washers that use less water can still be very effective, and very economical. If you plan on using a pressure washer regularly, finding one that keeps the water usage to a minimum can save you money and help the environment.
    For this guide we narrowed down our selection based on these characteristics so that you are able to select the most fitting pressure washer for your needs. While reading through our reviews, there are a few terms or initializations that you will need to understand:
    PSI – This stands for pounds per square inch. It refers to how powerful the stream of water that comes out of the hose of the pressure washer will be. The higher the number, the stronger the stream of water.
    GPM – This stands for gallons per minute. This is the total amount of water that is sprayed out each minute.
    HP – This stands for horsepower. This will only apply to gas-powered power washers and references the amount of power generated by the engine. A larger number here indicates a more powerful engine.
    Amp – This is short for amperage and is the term used to describe the strength of the electrical current in an electric pump or motor. A higher number here is a stronger pump.
    After our list, we have a complete guide to choosing the right pressure washer at the bottom of this page. If you want more in-depth information before making a purchase, you can find it there. Now, let’s hose down that car and get it sparkling.

    Top 10 Best Pressure Washers for Cars 2020

    1. Best Overall Electric Pressure Washer: Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Sun Joe produces excellent pressure washers, and this is their standout model. Two separate detergent tanks and a high-quality build make this versatile enough to clean any car and more besides.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 14.5 Amp/1800-watt motor. Up to 2030 PSI
    Water Usage – 1.76 GPM
    Type: Electric
    Review
    For an easy-to-use, portable, affordable, yet powerful option, few pressure washers can compete with the Sun Joe washer. It is smaller than a typical gas pressure washer, and thus easy to move from project to project. Being small and portable makes it perfect for using on your car, truck, RV, or boat as you’re moving around. A powerful 14.5 Amp motor creating 1.76 GPM means it’ll handle even very tough stains.
    This model has two separate detergent tanks, so you can use different cleaning products based on your particular needs. At the 0.9 liters each, the detergent tanks are not as big as you would find on larger pressure washer models. The fact that there are two of them, however, means that you have the convenience of switching between soaps for different parts of your project. For example, while washing your car, you can have your detergent for windows and windshields in one, while you keep the soap for the body
    This machine is very easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of reading of the instructions to try and figure things out. That also means it’s quite light on features. As it is straightforward, even an inexperienced person can confidently tackle their power washing projects. If you are just looking for a pressure washer that is easy to use, affordable, and still powerful enough to really clean your vehicle, this is very likely the best option for you.

    Pros

    Compact size makes it portable and easy to store
    Very easy to use
    Dual detergent containers

    Cons

    Soap containers are not very large
    Light on features

    2. Best Budget Power Washer: Greenworks GPW1602 Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: For the price, this power washer cleans extremely well and is particularly suited for smaller vehicles.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 13 Amp. Up to 1600 PSI
    Water Usage – 1.3 GPM
    Type: Electric
    Review
    If you are someone who likes to keep your car looking great with frequent washes, portability and ease of setup are crucial factors to consider in your washer. The Greenworks electric washer is an excellent choice for someone serious about keeping a clean car and it is also one of the most affordable machines on the market. While the price is quite low, the overall quality is still excellent. With 1600 PSI generating 1.2 GPM, it is more than sufficient for getting a quality clean on your car.
    The hose is 20 feet, which is enough length to get around smaller vehicles but may not be enough slack to circle around larger trucks, boats, and RVs. Luckily, the unit is extremely lightweight and easy to move at only 17.5 lbs. It does not have a built-in detergent tank, but a soap applicator tip is easy to install and use. After applying the soap, you just have to switch back to whichever pressure tip you need for your project.
    It’s on the quieter side while running and is certainly quieter than a gas-powered washer. While it does not boast the same strength as larger, more expensive pressure washers, it can, therefore, be used for small tasks around the house like washing patio furniture and house siding without fear of damage.
    When you’re done with your project, this compact little pressure washer can easily be stored in a garage or shed while taking up too much space. The hose is quite short, however, which can be problematic when trying to get to some areas around the house. Those who only need it for washing vehicles will find that this may be the best deal on the market today. If you also want to use it to wash decks, homes, and other things, it may be best to find a washer with a little more power.

    Pros

    Compact, portable, lightweight and a small footprint for storage
    Very affordable price
    Easy to switch between nozzles

    Cons

    No detergent container
    Hose is only 20 feet long

    3. Best Premium Power Washer: Sun Joe SPX3500 Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Great energy efficiency and maneuverability make this Sun Joe pressure washer a nice trade-up on our overall pick.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 13-amp. Up to 2300 PSI
    Water Usage – 1.48 GPM
    Type: Electric
    Review
    Sun Joe is a great go-to pressure washer brand, and this is another, slightly more expensive, model of pressure washer that is an excellent, powerful machine. With 2300 PSI of cleaning power, it produces 1.48 GPM of water. This machine’s unique feature that makes it stick out from the rest is that it has an adjustable detergent dial to control how much soap you would like to dispense onto your working surface. This is ideal for people who wash their cars frequently and know which parts of the car would benefit from more or less detergent being applied.
    Its 20-foot hose and 35-foot power cord coupled with its large “easy glide” wheels make it easy to move this heavier unit weighing in at 46.5lbs. We love that its weight, concentrated in the bottom of the machine, means that it does not tip over while you’re in the middle of using it, as can sometimes happen with lightweight plastic-body machines.
    The “Total Stop System” means that the pump will shut off when the trigger isn’t being held to save energy and prevent the pump from being worn out.  It comes with five different spray tips to suit your various needs and an onboard detergent tank with a capacity of 40.6 fluid ounces.

    Pros

    Onboard storage for the hose and cord
    Easy and straightforward setup
    Pump stops when not in use to save energy
    “Total Stop System” minimizes use of electricity

    Cons

    On the heavy side for an electric pressure washer
    Only a 20-foot hose

    4. Most Powerful Pressure Washer: TEANDE 3800PSI Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Extreme power means no matter what paces you put your car through, this pressure washer will clean it all, and much more besides.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 1800 Watt. Up to 3800 PSI.
    Water Usage – 2.8 GPM
    Type: Gas
    Review
    This electric pressure washer has a powerful 1800-Watt motor generating up to 3800 psi and a GPM rate of 2.8. It is an excellent tool for washing your car, but with that kind of force, it’s also versatile enough for other outdoor projects like fences and patio furniture. It can even be used to power wash your deck or home! It comes with five nozzles for different spray patterns. They are easy to connect and give you options depending on the task you are tackling.
    One of the great features of this model is that the body of the machine has a storage compartment for these nozzles and all accessories. The hose is only 6 meters (about 18 feet) long, which might not be quite as much as is needed for larger vehicles. The machine is on wheels for easy mobility, but the wheels are hard plastic, which can make it hard to pull or push through grass or other uneven surfaces.
    The power cord, however, is sufficiently long for nearly any task you have in mind at 35 feet. The sleek-looking body comes in green and blue and has a simple, accessible appearance. The ease of use cannot be overstated; it is a very straightforward machine. Despite the impressive power that this machine produces, it is still very quiet thanks to the fact that it uses an electric motor.

    Pros

    Compact and extremely easy to use for just about anyone
    Sleek, simple, attractive looking unit
    Excellent performance for most household jobs like cars, decks, and walkways

    Cons

    Nozzles need to be switched for different jobs, as opposed to just adjusting a handle on the wand.
    Plastic wheels, as opposed to tubes or rubber.

    5. Best Gas Powered Washer: Simpson MSH3125 MegaShot Gas Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A reliable Honda engine and excellent wheels make this a great gas-powered choice for those heavy-duty washes.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 6HP. 3200 PSI
    Water Usage – 2.5 GPM
    Type: Gas
    Review
    If you are eager to tackle heavy cleaning projects while also having a unit that works perfectly for a lower pressure job such as your automobile, consider the Simpson MegaShot gasoline pressure washer. This machine boasts a Honda engine, so you can count on it being reliable and long-lasting. However, since it’s a gas engine, it’s quite loud.
    While many pressure washers have plastic parts, including plastic wands, this washer has only heavy-duty metal, so it can handle being used for all kinds of projects without fear of causing much damage. The metal frame of the unit completely surrounds the engine, making it able to trek out into all kinds of terrain with you.
    This portability is made even easier with its enormous tire wheels. Because it is a heavy machine at 55lbs, the wheels are terrific for making it simple and painless to move around your yard or project area. For washing your car, it has a 25-foot hose, allowing for an easy time getting around your vehicle. This hose is also engineered to be kink and abrasion-resistant. It comes with five easy-to-used nozzle tips for various jobs.
    This model, unlike many others, does not have a built-in tank for detergent. While that may be a turn off for some, it may also be a time-saving feature. The pressure washer comes with a clear hose that can be directly inserted into your detergent, so you can actually use the detergent’s original container; no pouring or measuring needed!

    Pros

    Comes assembled and is almost ready to use out the box
    Powerful and therefore versatile for all kinds of projects, not just your car
    Long, durable, kink-resistant hose
    Large fuel tank to keep you working without interruption

    Cons

    No built-in detergent tanks
    Since it is a powerful, gas engine, it’s loud

    6. Tacklife GSW01A Gas Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Phenomenal power and high-quality parts, including a metal spray gun, make this a quality option for those who need serious cleaning work done.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 6.5HP. 3300PSI
    Water Usage – 2.6 GPM
    Type: Gas
    Review
    For the serious do-it-yourselfer, this pressure washer is a tool unlike any other. Yes, it will efficiently clean your vehicle, but it can also clean just about anything else imaginable with its remarkable 3300 PSI at 2.6 GPM. Its price tag is higher than most, but there is no questioning the quality and durability behind this machine. It comes with five nozzle attachments to meet the needs of various projects.
    The large detergent tank holds a full gallon, so you will not be constantly interrupted by the need for refills as you wash. Likewise, the gas tank is 3.8 liters, meaning you are free to roam for a long period of time without having to worry about a power cord getting in your way.
    Weighing in at 77.16lbs, it’s comparable to other heavy-duty gas-powered washers, but its portability is still made easy by its huge, 12-inch wheels. Its 30-foot hose is engineered to last with its three layers of durable material to be flexible and wear-resistant.
    Another bonus of this model is that the spray gun is metal instead of plastic, making it last longer. If you only want to pressure wash your car, this washer would definitely be overkill. But if you are looking to wash your car while also maintaining a spotless home and property, this Tacklife pressure washer is a hard model to beat.

    Pros

    Packs an enormous punch at 3300 PSI
    Suitable for any pressure washing jobs
    Large one-gallon detergent tank

    Cons

    Heavyweight machine makes it a little harder to take out on a whim
    One of the more expensive power washers on the market

    7. Annovi Reverberi AR383SS Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A long hose means it’s easy to circumnavigate your boat or large truck with this pressure washer.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 13-amp motor. 1900 PSI.
    Water Usage – 1.3 GPM
    Type: Electric
    Review
    For a compact, powerful pressure washer that will allow mobility around your larger vehicles, the Annovi Reverberi Electric pressure washer may be the one for you. This washer is compact yet powerful delivering 1900 PSI at 1.3 GPM. The 30-foot flexible hose coupled with a 35-foot power cord means you can easily move around your workspace or maneuver around larger trucks or boats with the 33lb unit. However, while in use, you must unwind the entire length of the host to attach at both ends.
    One of the things that really stood out to us was the durability and accessibility. While many power washers have plastic pieces or converters for the hose, this Annovi model uses metal for all the heavy wear pieces, so you will be happy pressure washing with this machine for years to come. Because this is a mid-sized electric washer, you are sure to have the power you need for most at-home washing projects.
    At the same time, it is small enough for nearly anyone to easily use, move, and store without hassle. While it may be small, it does have a lot of power capacity, so be careful not to cause damage when starting out. The attachments that come with this model include a washer gun, a wand, detergent tank (28oz. capacity), and four different pressure nozzles.
    With the impressive power and long list of features, we expected this to be priced quite a bit higher. It offers great value at its price point.

    Pros

    Size strikes a balance between powerful and portable
    Surprisingly affordable
    Metal parts used for all key areas

    Cons

    The hose reel is for storage when not in use.

    8. STANLEY FATMAX SXPW2823K Gas Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This is a gas pressure washer that’s easy to use and is slightly less powerful than other models, but more maneuverable as a result.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 4.3HP. 2800 PSI
    Water Usage – 2.3 GPM
    Type: Gas
    Review
    For powerful pressure washer that you can use for all kinds of projects around the house, including your vehicle, consider the Stanley Fatmax pressure washer. With an efficient 2.3 GPM, it is a good option for smaller projects and bigger endeavors alike. Switching between different levels of pressure is made easy by a simple twist of the pressure adjustment handle.
    Its hose is a durable kink-resistant material and the body is engineered to be resistant to corrosion. KOHLER manufactures the engine, ensuring a powerful and long-lasting lifespan on this pressure washer. Something unique about this model is that the front panel has an easy to reference image to instruct you as to which pressure you ought to be using for your given project, ranging from gentle to abrasive. It helps remove the effort of thinking when embarking on a task.
    With this powerful machine, your car will likely only need a “gentle” spray. The convenient soap reservoir is accessible and has a very large capacity; up to a gallon of detergent will fit. If you are worried about the difficulty of starting the engine with a gas-powered washer and prefer the ease of an electric start, do not be too quick to eliminate the Stanley Fatmax as an option. This washer has been fitted with KOHLER’s “Easy-Pull” technology to get you up and running on the very first pull.
    Of course, with such a powerful engine, it is also on the heavy side. But standing at 35.5 inches tall with large, 12-inch “never flat” wheels, it is still able to be wheeled around with relative ease.

    Pros

    Versatile for more than just your car
    Thoughtfully engineered to be long-lasting
    Easy pull technology for easy starting

    Cons

    The engine is loud, as gas washers tend to be
    A powerful engine means it will use quite a bit of gas

    9. Karsher K2 Electric Pressure Washer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This is a low-powered but easy to use pressure washer that’s great for giving your car an occasional clean.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 120 Volts. 1600 PSI
    Water Usage – 1.25 GPM
    Type: Electric
    Review
    Weighing only 16.8lbs, this Karsher K2 electric washer is ideal for frequent use when you want to get out and start washing without a lot of setup time. It is also perfect for anyone to use, no matter how strong they are, because it’s so easy to use and lightweight, while still having more than enough power to get a professional-grade wash on your car. For being such a small machine, you will be surprised by its 1600 PSI producing 1.25 GPM.
    One of the best features about buying this machine is the accessories that are included to make cleaning your car and home a breeze. A large surface cleaning attachment is excellent for cleaning surfaces like driveways and patios without producing cumbersome backsplash that leaves you soaking wet. The detergent foamer included in the bundle produces a thick lather of foamy soap to spray on your work surface. It includes two detergents: a multipurpose detergent (for decks, driveways, and the like,) and a detergent specifically for vehicles.
    The included soft bristle brush guarantees you will not scratch your car, while the surface cleaner attachment is suitable for more intense jobs. While there is certainly a lot to love about this power washer, some of the included attachments aren’t as durable as they should be. These parts have to be very strong to withstand the high pressure, and the type of plastic used may not be up to the job in all cases.

    Pros

    Good selection of accessories, especially for washing your car
    Lightweight and thus accessible for nearly anyone to use
    Very quiet even when operating at max power

    Cons

    Plastic attachments are not very durable

    10. WORX WG625 Cordless Power Cleaner

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A micro-pressure washer that can harvest water from any source and turn it into a strong jet for simple cleaning tasks.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Facts
    Power Specs – 20 Volt. 320 PSI
    Water Usage – .53 GPM
    Type: Battery
    While this model certainly differs from a traditional electric or gas-powered pressure washer, it is still a terrific option for a washer that will leave you with a shining clean car, truck, boat, or RV. It delivers five times the amount of pressure that a regular garden hose nozzle provides.
    That said, It is not nearly as powerful as a traditional pressure washer and isn’t suitable for larger jobs like pressure washing a deck or driveway. Yet its portability and variety of water source options make it a great option specifically for cleaning vehicles.
    It can be used with a simple garden hose or, using the included hose, it can draw water from sources like lakes, ponds, or a bucket of water. It delivers 320 PSI and produces a flow of 0.53 GPM. Avid car washers will appreciate that there is no threat to damaging their vehicles while still getting a powerful spray.
    Customers who are avid campers love this product because it is portable and easy to keep in your truck and RV or camper so you can clean throughout your journey. It is also great for spraying off patio furniture and dirty boots while camping.
    Having a battery as a power source means you can go virtually anywhere there’s water without needing an electric plug or heavy gas engine. It takes around 5 hours for the 20V battery to charge, so it takes some foresight to make sure you are powered up before spraying. While we certainly love the convenience of this machine, it would be nice if the battery lasted longer. If you plan on using this regularly, it makes sense to invest in an extra battery pack or two.

    Pros

    Extremely portable and lightweight
    Can use water from nearly any freshwater source
    Perfect for camping

    Cons

    Not as versatile as traditional pressure washers
    Battery life is to short

    The Complete Guide to Purchasing a Pressure Washer for Your Vehicle
    A pressure washer is one of those tools that you might not think you need until you realize what they are capable of. And once you start using one, it will not be long before you’ll be addicted to using it on your vehicles, your home, and anywhere else that could use a good cleaning. If you are a home and vehicle owner, you will almost certainly use a pressure washer enough to justify making a purchase rather than renting one when it is needed.
    Most traditional pressure washers attach to your outdoors garden hose to boost your water pressure and allow you to accomplish all kinds of tasks around your home and property.
    The most common uses include washing vehicles (including, cars, trucks, RVs, boats), the walls of a house, cement driveways, fences, and decks. It does not just clean, but also makes for an indispensable preparation tool before staining or painting surfaces.
    There are a variety of attachments available for different models of pressure washers to help make your tasks as easy as possible. Many of these come with the washers, but there are often numerous other aftermarket accessories available as well.
    Now that you know the basics of what a pressure washer is and what it can be used for, it is time to learn about some of the specific options you will find on pressure washers. In each of the following cases it is important to note that one option is not necessarily better than another, just different. Understanding each option will help you to choose the one that is best for your particular situation.
    Gasoline vs. Electricity
    The main category differentiating different types of pressure washers is based on how they are powered. The two traditional means of power are electric pressure washers and gasoline-powered pressure washers. In general, a gas-powered pressure washer will be more powerful than an electric one. This is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). A gas-powered pressure washer can deliver upwards of 4,000 PSI, which is extremely powerful.
    The average home and vehicle owner will not need that much force for accomplishing most tasks such as blasting off grime and dirt or prepping a surface for paint or stain. High-end electric pressure washers can still produce a very strong stream of water, which is more than enough to clean any vehicle. When deciding whether to get either a gas or an electric washer, make sure to think about these factors:
    Noise – Gas-powered pressure washers are much louder than electric.
    Convenience – There are no cords needed for a gas-powered washer, but you do have to make sure to keep plenty of fuel available.
    Weight – Gas-powered washers tend to be significantly heavier than electric.
    Efficiency
    Another important thing to consider is how efficient the pressure washer will be. There are several different areas where this will be important. The first measurement to pay attention to is the gallons per minute (GPM). This measures how much water flows from the machine in a given minute. This is helpful for efficiently cleaning and rinsing away whatever dirt or other surface debris has been lifted by the intense pressure. A higher GPM machine uses more water, which can help to quickly wash away the dirt and debris on your vehicle or other surface. Using more water than you need to get the job done, on the other hand, is wasteful.
    The next thing to look at is how much energy a machine is going to use. This will be measured in watts for electric pressure washers and fuel for gas-powered options. In general, the more powerful a machine is, the more energy is needed. Having a pressure washer that is more powerful than you need for a job is wasteful and will increase the cost of ownership over time. Choosing a model that has the level of power you need, but not too much, is important for efficient operations.
    How to Properly Power Wash Vehicles
    No matter which model you choose it is important that you use your power washer properly to clean your vehicles. We all know that keeping a clean, well-maintained car promotes the longevity of the car’s exterior and keeps rust and build-up at bay. Using a pressure washer is a great way to clean many areas of a vehicle, as long as you do it properly.
    Cleaning the Body of the Vehicle
    Most pressure washers have specialty soap foaming “canons” to apply a thick lather to your car which helps loosen the stuck-on grime. If you are someone who camps or boats, consider the ease with which you can clean your RV, camper, and boat using a pressure washer. To clean the exterior surfaces of your vehicles you simply fill up the detergent containers on the pressure washer (or attach the soap dispensing attachment) and begin spraying it on the exterior of your vehicle. It is typically recommended to use between 1200 and 2500 PSI settings when washing your vehicle.
    There are many types of detergents specific to power washing vehicles that you should consider for the task. Just make sure that the soap is compatible for use with pressure washers and begin the job. Once you have sprayed the entire surface of the vehicle with the soapy water, turn off the soap dispenser and start using clean water to rinse. You can use a higher-pressure stream of water to get the soap off at first. When ready, it is generally recommended to use a low-pressure setting for the final rinse to help avoid water spots.
    Washing the Wheels
    Wheels can get dirty very quickly. To make it worse, the dirt and debris that gets on the wheels are often very difficult to get off. When you are ready to wash your wheels and tires, you will want to turn the pressure up to at least 1500 PSI and spray them down. You can purchase soaps that are designed specifically for washing wheels and tires if you choose, but simply spraying them with water is often enough to get them looking nice.
    Washing the Engine
    A clean engine is just as important as cleaning the rest of your car. Many people don’t realize this, but power washing your engine is actually quite good for a vehicle, as long as it is done properly. First, make sure your engine is off and completely cooled down. Next, set your power washer to a lower PSI (1200 or lower) and use a wide spraying nozzle. Begin spraying down the entire engine area to remove any leaves, twigs, small rocks, and other items that can get trapped in the area. This should all be done from above the engine spraying down so any debris falls out the bottom.
    One of the most important aspects of washing your engine is getting rid of any built-up grease. To do this, add a degreasing detergent to the soap dispenser and use that while spraying the engine. Finally, rinse it off again with clean water. The engine will dry on its own through evaporation, or you can drive it around so that the heat and wind get rid of all the excess water.
    Final Thoughts
    The most important thing to consider before making your purchase is to ask yourself what you will actually be using the pressure washer for and how often you will use it. Will you simply use it a few times per year to clean your vehicle? Or will you use it weekly on your car and each season to wash your siding, decking, and other items?
    For simply washing the car and the occasional small task like washing garden tools, a mid-grade electric pressure washer, such as our top pick, would be ideal and will not break the bank. For someone hoping to frequently maintain their siding, cement, and decks or fences, a more powerful electric or gas pressure washer, such as this one, would fit the bill.
    Take into consideration the length of the power cord on whichever electric model you consider to make sure it would be suitable to reach your desired work area. In the end, purchasing a good quality power washer is almost always a great investment that will help you to keep your cars and your home looking their best. More

  • in

    Best Paint Guns for Painting Your Car 2020

    A good paint job will define a car. Some paint jobs, like the airbrush overload of the seventies, define an entire generation of car culture. If you have a project car, you know that eventually you will have to give it that final touch. You are going to need to prime, paint and shine. You’re going to need a paint gun.
    Spraying paint at something is not a complicated process. After all, a can of spray paint is an all-in-one paint gun and paint container, and it costs a few dollars to grab a rattle can. So, it can’t be that hard to lay down some paint. With that in mind, It seems so crazy to know that there are thousands of paint guns on the market, each offering a special take on this simple process. How do you choose the one for you, and what exactly do you need?

    A Short Primer on Buying a Paint Gun
    First, read this quick primer. We’ll lay out the quick facts so you can get into the process fast and delve right into choosing. After our recommendations, there will be a much more in-depth guide at the bottom here.
    HVLP
    The first thing to know is that there are different types of spray guns. You can dive into it in more detail down here, but the most common type is called an HVLP sprayer.
    HVLP stands for High Volume, Low Pressure. That means it can spray a lot of paint, and you don’t need tornado force winds to do it. They work best with thin to medium viscosity material. Your standard auto paints and clear coats fit nicely into that category. They also offer the best compromise between how fast you can paint something and how much overspray you have to worry about.
    How Is the Paint Fed
    Paint guns have a few different ways to actually get the paint into the gun.
    A siphon feed, or conventional, spray gun has a cup underneath it. There’s a tube going into the container that sucks up the material and injects it into the air. Siphon feed guns are the easiest to use. They are also crucial for spraying some specialized materials like metal flecked paint.
    A gravity feed gun has a cup on top, and it uses gravity to push the material into the gun. The gravity assisting makes the gun more efficient. That efficiency contributes to better atomization, a smoother finish, and less wasted material.
    A pressure feed gun uses a pressurized container or a pump to push the paint up into the gun. It doesn’t need to siphon or rely on gravity. That means you can spray upside down, which can be really handy in tight spots. The downside is that it is much harder to clean because of the extra hoses and complications of the pressurized canister.
    The Source of Air
    HVLP guns are all powered by air. The air flows through, at low pressure, and mixes with the paint to form the spray. The most common sources of air are turbines or air compressors. You can read our guide below if you want to compare them.
    The important thing is to make sure your air source meets the requirements for the gun you buy. Pressure, measured in PSI, and volume, measured in CFM, are the two most important numbers.
    Some guns have a turbine or air compressor already attached, like the HomeRight HVLP in the recommendations. Others come with their own dedicated air source, like the Wagner Spraytech. Most dedicated HVLP guns, however, will require you to provide your own air source.
    Quality
    The quality of the gun makes a big difference in three main areas.
    How Easy They Are to Clean
    Sprayers have to be cleaned after every use. Dried material inside the gun turns it into a fancy paperweight. The easier they are to clean, the easier it’ll be to avoid that fate.
    How Long They Will Last
    Plastic parts, as well as cheaper metals, will wear out with a lot of use. If you plan on spraying a few projects a year, you’ll be okay with a gun that isn’t as robust as others. If you plan to lay down a few hundred gallons a year, you would be better off spending the money for a gun with better quality construction.
    The Consistency of Spray
    In order to get the best paint job possible you need a gun that is precise. High-quality guns will have better machining and accuracy. That gives them the ability to lay down a more consistent coat and a better finish over cheaper guns.
    Type of Job
    There are lots of different paints and finishes that can be applied to a car. It is essential to make sure the gun you choose can spray the material you want to use. That doesn’t just include the size of the gun. A bigger gun will generally be able to spray more material, but it also includes smaller considerations like:
    Nozzle/Tip Size
    The size of the hole the material is sprayed out of dictates how thick the material you are spraying can be. Check out this chart at the bottom of the page to make sure you can use the material you need.
    Container Size
    If you are just doing touch up and airbrushing, you don’t need a large material reservoir. If you are painting a large area, though, having to refill often is annoying.
    Hose Length
    If you are supplying your own air compressor and hose, you don’t have to worry about it. If you are buying a unit with its own hose, make sure it’s long enough to do the job.
    Once you have the basics in mind, it can still be tough to choose the right one because of the sheer number of options. Don’t worry, we have your back. Here are the 10 spray guns we would recommend.

    Top 10 Paint Guns for Cars 2020

    1. Best Overall Painting System: Fuji Semi-Pro 2 HVLP System

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: The Fuji Semi-Pro is high quality and comes with everything you need to start spraying.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP, convertible to conventional feed.
    Container Size: 12oz
    Tip Size: 1.3mm installed, Interchangeable
    Air Compressor/Turbine: Two-stage turbine included with 25ft hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The Fuji Semi-Pro 2 is perfect for someone with nothing but wants a good quality system for tackling a lot of small to medium projects. It comes with everything you need to get started and will grow with you over time.
    First off, the gun is good quality. The metal parts will last a long time, and it features Fuji’s modular system. That means you can convert the gun to perform different tasks. If you want a high volume siphon cup, they sell one for it. If you want to turn it into a very fine airbrush-like gun, they sell parts to do that too.
    The only issue is that you won’t want to do any big projects with this little unit. Even though you can buy and install a bigger reservoir, the included 12oz cup will have you spending more time mixing paint than spraying. The compressor isn’t big enough to lay down a large volume either. If you need to do bigger jobs, check out the Semi-Pro 2’s bigger brother on the list here. Just be prepared to spend a lot more.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    All HVLP guns have a learning curve, but the Semi-Pro 2 makes it easy to overcome by providing you with everything in one convenient package. You won’t have to worry about dialing in an air compressor or finding the right hose. At 25ft, the hose isn’t going to hold you back. You won’t have those awkward moments when you walk too far around a project and come unplugged.
    The gun has plenty of adjustments too, so you can dial in the pattern you need. It also includes a gravity-fed no-bleed cup that looks a little intimidating at first, but it makes for a more intuitive feel to the trigger. Perhaps most importantly, it is easy to keep clean. The metal gun breaks down quickly, and you can scrub away without fear.

    Pros

    Parts are high quality
    Air supply produces good power for the price
    Modular gun is a very versatile platform
    Gun is very easy to clean

    Cons

    Small reservoir means it’s not suited for large projects
    Extra tip sizes and gun parts have to purchased separately and are expensive

    2. Best Budget Paint System: Wagner Spraytech Complete

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: The Wagner Spraytech is a complete system that is very budget-friendly.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 32oz and 48oz
    Tip Size: Adjustable
    Air Compressor/Turbine: Portable turbine and 20ft hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The Wagner Spraytech Complete is for the DIY painter on a budget. You get everything you need to start spraying at a very reasonable price. The turbine isn’t super powerful, but it’s enough for medium-sized jobs. Mostly, the straightforward design means even first time painters will quickly get the hang of it.
    The biggest drawback to the Wagner Spraytech is the plastic. The entire thing is made of plastic, and plastic has a bad habit of wearing out over time. That should be fine if you only plan on spraying a few projects here and there. It’s also okay if you are looking for a first step into a new hobby. It doesn’t make sense to buy a high-quality, expensive machine like the Fuji on this list if you don’t even know that you like painting, or only expect to infrequently use it.
    You won’t find much to complain about other than the quality, though. The Wagner can handle bigger jobs, boasting some of the largest reservoirs on this list. It also has a large tip that can handle a variety of materials. Storing the unit is also really easy; the portable turbine comes with a holder for the gun. That probably isn’t very high on the priority list, but it is pretty convenient when you have it.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    Everything about the Wagner makes it easy to use. The gun is lightweight and has very few parts, so it’s easy to work with. The hose is easy to connect and stretches 20ft. Since the tip is not interchangeable, you don’t have to worry about losing pieces. Just adjust the size with a dial on the side, and you are good to go. The only thing on the list easier to use is the HomeRight, but it doesn’t have nearly the power that the included Wagner turbine has.
    It can be a little frustrating to keep clean, though. You’ll want to make sure to run cleaner through the gun until it runs clear to make sure nothing dries inside it. It’s a very inexpensive gun, but that doesn’t mean you want to replace it after one use.

    Pros

    Includes air supply
    It’s straightforward to set up and use
    Very inexpensive for a complete setup

    Cons

    Quality is low
    Guns are not very adjustable

    3. Most Convenient HVLP Sprayer: 3M Accuspray One Spray

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: The Accuspray has quickly replaceable tips and cup liners. That makes it a dream to use and keep clean.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 32oz
    Tip Size: Disposable 1.2mm, 1.3mm, 1.4mm, and 1.8mm, with a 2.0mm available for purchase
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 10 CFM at 25 PSI compressor required, no hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The 3M Accuspray is a really unique gun, and it has one great feature that makes it worth the high price: the plastic tips are easy to remove and change out. If they get too dirty, you just throw them away and grab a new one out of the box. Every time you start a new project it’s like starting with a new gun.
    The added bonus to having easy to replace tips is that you can swap in different sizes. If you start spraying a new material and it’s clogging up a bit, swap to a bigger tip. The time you save not having to re-mix paint or fiddle with dirty tips is worth the extra money it costs to get set up with the Accuspray.
    Of course, there are a few downsides. You’ll need to supply your own air, so make sure you budget for that. Second, it’s never going to give you the quality you’ll get from something like the Finishline on this list because of the interchangeable plastic tips. It will do 99% of jobs, but if you need that upper 1% of quality, then you’ll need to spend the extra money on the high precision gun.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    It’s okay. You will need to source your own compressor and hoses, so that can be a hassle. However, you won’t have to worry very much about cleaning. Even if you forget and paint dries inside the gun, you can just pop the plastic parts off, and then toss the rest of it in the cleaner.
    Even the cup has a removable liner, so you don’t have to clean out the reservoir after every use. You just throw it away. If you never want to waste time cleaning or messing with a gun that is getting a little worn out, here you go. If a part starts acting up, just toss it and grab a new one. It’s hard to oversell how convenient that is. The most frustrating thing in the entire world of spraying paint is a clogged tip.

    Pros

    Disposable liners and tips make cleanup very easy
    Disposable tips are available in a range of sizes
    One gun can be used for a lot of different projects

    Cons

    Consumables can become expensive over time
    No included air supply

    4. Best Premium HVLP Sprayer: Devilbiss Finishline 4

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This no-nonsense professional-grade gun will last you a lifetime.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 32oz
    Tip Size: 1.3mm, 1.5mm, 1.8mm
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 13 CFM at 25 PSI compressor required, no hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The Finishline 4 is just an HVLP sprayer, and it’s an expensive one at that. There are better options if you are just starting out. There are options like the CH spray gun further down that can use a smaller compressor and cost less.
    However, if you have the compressor already and are comfortable with spraying, the Devilbiss Finishline won’t let you down. Devilbiss is a big player in the pro world and they are serious about their craft. The anodized frame and all-metal construction means it will last forever. The fit and finish means you’ll never walk around dripping. The buttery smooth double stage trigger feels excellent and won’t fatigue your hand even if you spend all year spraying.
    You’ll also be laying down beautiful coats with low overspray. The high-efficiency gravity feed design will complement both years of practice and neophytes picking up a sprayer for the first time. It included extra tips and tons of adjustment dials. You can tune it for anything you want to spray through it.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    Let’s just get this out there, the answer is no. Higher-end guns just need more fiddling with. The adjustments are plentiful but very sensitive. That’s great if you want to dial in the perfect pattern, but can be frustrating as heck if you are new to spraying. Since it does not include an air supply, it’s up to you to source a compressor and hose. Having to buy those things adds another layer of complication to the process.
    The only good news is that since it is made from corrosion-resistant metal, it’s easy to clean once you do take it apart. Even if you let the material dry on the inside of the gun, not all is lost. Shame on you for being lazy, but you can soak every piece in thinner and scrub it clean without fear.

    Pros

    High-quality parts
    Very easy to clean
    Multiple tips included
    Highly adjustable gun

    Cons

    Expensive for a single gun
    No air source included

    5. Best Paint System for Large Projects: Fuji Mini-Mite 4 Platinum

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Fuji Mini-Mite 4 is a high power, high volume system that can handle a broad range of materials.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 32oz
    Tip Size: 1.3mm, interchangeable
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 4-stage turbine with 25ft hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    This system is for the hardcore DIY crowd, or even as a backup for a professional shop. The Fuji Mini-Mite 4 Platinum is what happens if the Semi-Pro 2 from earlier on this list hits the gym and learns to lift. It has a 4 stage turbine that can oxidize even thick materials, and can lay down an ultra-smooth finish that will make your car worth telling people to stop breathing on.
    The kit also comes with the larger sprayer that is better for bigger jobs. It sports a 32oz siphon cup attached to a 25ft hose. That way, you can do laps around your project without running out of room or paint. The gun is super high quality, too, even rivaling the more expensive standalone sprayers on this list like the Finishline.
    All of that function comes for a price, though. The Mini-Mite is easily the most expensive thing we are willing to recommend here. It’s worth it if you plan on painting the next Concours winner.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    It is. It may be even easier to use than its smaller cousin. With a larger reservoir and a more traditional gun, you’ll spend more time spraying and less time fiddling setting it up.
    Like other systems that include their own air source, the biggest advantage is that there’s no guessing or giant air compressors. Just pull it out of the box and go. The T-Series gun that the Mity-Mite comes with will be a little harder to clean than the M-Series. Still, it features the same no-bleed design that is standard on professional setups.
    All of that combines to form one of the most intuitive and fast systems on this list. The extra power means you don’t have to be as accurate with viscosity, and the one-stage trigger means you just point and spray. Honestly, for the price, you’d hope that was the case – and thankfully it is.

    Pros

    Made from high-quality materials
    Very easy to use and clean
    Portable turbine produces a good amount of power
    Large capacity gun can handle large projects

    Cons

    High initial investment price
    Extra tip sizes and gun parts have to purchased separately and are expensive

    6. Best HVLP Set for Any Project: TCP Global HVLP Set

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The TCP HVLP Set gives you a gun for primer, a gun for paint, and a small gun for airbrushing and touch up at a fantastic price.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP x3
    Container Size: 32oz x2, 5oz x1
    Tip Size: 1.8mm x1, 1.4mm x1, 1mm x1
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 7 CFM at 30 PSI air compressor required, no hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The TCP HVLP set includes three different HVLP guns setting you up to tackle anything. The 1.8mm tipped gun can handle primers and other higher viscosity work. The 1.4mm tipped gun is perfect for lightweight paints and finishes. Finally, the smaller 1mm tipped gun is ideal for touch up and details.
    If you already have an air compressor, then you can buy this kit and dive headfirst into the world of paint and finish. You won’t be breaking the bank to do it either. Only the Campbell Hausfeld sprayer is less expensive per gun. You get a metal cup instead of a plastic cup with the TCP, though, and there’s three of them.
    You might be let down if you are a bit more serious about your finishes. Yes, the kit does include everything you need to do it all. It just won’t be at the quality of the higher priced guns like the Finishline we recommended. The atomization of the material just won’t be quite as good, and the parts will be a little bit more likely corrode. If you aren’t that hardcore, then this set is perfect.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    The TCP set is not as easy as others on the list. Three times the number of options means three times the amount of parts to adjust and keep clean. There is something to be said about having those options, though. If one gun is not working out for you, swap it for another and see if it works better.
    The guns themselves are easy to keep clean, which is always nice. They are all metal and break down easily. However, you might have to tighten screws and fiddle with the knobs more often. Loose tolerances are an issue you will find on any budget spray gun.

    Pros

    The 3 gun set covers just about every project
    Easy to clean and maintain
    Convenient dials make adjusting the pattern very easy

    Cons

    Prone to corrosion if not maintained
    No included air supply

    7. Best All In One Sprayer: HomeRight Power Painter Super Finish Max

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The HomeRight Power Painter is an all in one machine that couldn’t be simpler to use.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Siphon Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 40oz
    Tip Size: 4mm, 2mm, 1.5mm
    Air Compressor/Turbine: Built into the gun
    Who Is This Gun For?
    If you are looking for a sprayer that you can just pull out of the box, fill with paint and start painting, here it is. The HomeRight Finish Max is a complete system contained in the gun. We really do live in the future, right?
    There’s a lot of downsides to that, though. First off, like the Wagner on this list, it’s made of plastic through and through. Not an ideal piece of equipment if you plan on using it hundreds of times. Unlike the Wagner, the gun is heavy. It has a large reservoir and a turbine attached to it. That turbine isn’t powerful either. It’s compact and will never push the air volume that a separate system will. You really have to value the convenience and simplicity to give this thing a go.
    It does have some really cool features you won’t find on other guns in its class. It has interchangeable metal tips that range from the smaller fine finish tips to the large tips that can spray unthinned latex paint. Coupled with the adjustable widths and pattern selectors, you can paint your shed one day and paint your car the next.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    Nothing on this list is easier. Fill it with paint, plug it in, and point it at what you plan on painting. Cleanup is easy enough, and there aren’t any parts to lose or break. There’s not much to say about it. Grab one and head down the page to here and learn some tips on spraying.

    Pros

    All-in-one design means no hoses or external parts
    Can spray a wide variety of materials
    Very simple to use

    Cons

    Plastic parts are prone to wearing out quickly
    Air supply is not powerful enough for good atomization and fast spraying

    8. Best Inexpensive HVLP Sprayer: Campbell Hausfeld HVLP Gun

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP Gun will get you painting with a reliable, easy to clean gun that costs less than lunch.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Gravity Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 20oz
    Tip Size: 1.4mm
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 4.5 CFM at 40 PSI air compressor required, no hose
    Who Is This Gun For?
    The Campbell Hausfeld HVLP gun is the perfect first gun. If you want to get serious about laying down the finish and are willing to shop around for an air compressor, then you can pick up this gun for the price of a good meal and start your journey. You don’t even need a very powerful compressor since this HVLP gun is happy with 5CFM.
    The size makes it perfect for medium projects. The cup isn’t as big as you will want for larger projects, and the tip size doesn’t lend itself well to detail work. If you really need those extra options, then fork over a few more dollars for the TCP set mentioned on this list.
    What you won’t get is professional quality. The cup is plastic, and the adjustment dials are sloppy. You’ll be fighting overspray, and you might not get the atomization you want for really smooth paint. You could buy about ten of these for the price of the much higher quality Accuspray on this list, though. You won’t feel bad using and absuing these guns to learn your craft.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    The CH HVLP is about middle of the road when it comes to ease of use. It’s not bad, but you will need to source your own air supply and fiddle with it. It doesn’t need a powerful air supply to work well, and that does make it easier to set up in the average shop. Even if you don’t already have a compressor, Campbell Hausfeld is well known for making their own air compressors which are also available at a budget price.
    It is all metal. That sets it apart from other budget options. You’ll be able to take it apart and clean it without issue. The only thing that can be annoying is the plastic cup. Plastic will get stained and need replacing long before the rest of the gun.

    Pros

    Easy to clean and maintain
    Inexpensive
    Can run off a small air compressor

    Cons

    No included air supply
    Quality is inconsistent

    9. Best Pressure Pot System: TCP Global Pressure Tank with Spray Gun

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: With a pressure pot that can hold 2.5 gallons of material, there’s no chance you’ll run out once you start spraying.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Pressure Feed HVLP
    Container Size: 2.5 gallons
    Tip Size: 1.5mm
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 8 CFM at 50 PSI air compressor required, 10ft hose fixed to the pot
    Who Is This Gun For?
    Are you about to paint an entire bus? Then look no further. The TCP Pressure Pot can hold 2.5 gallons of material. That’s nearly five times the size of the next largest reservoir on the list.
    This is the only pressurized system on this list. You can learn more about it down the page here. In short, it uses air to pressurize the reservoir and force the material into the gun. That gives you the most control over the spray that you can get and allows you to spray in any position.
    Mostly this unit is all about speed and volume. You can spray unthinned material and spray a huge amount of it in a short amount of time. Even the powerful compressor on the Fuji Mini-Mite on this list pales compared to the size of the job that a pressure pot can handle.
    You will be sacrificing a lot of convenience for that volume, though. You’ll need a good size air compressor to charge the pot. You’ll also be tethered to the pot with a 10ft hose, so get your biceps curls in now. You’ll need them to tote 2.5 gallons of material around with you as you work through the project.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    Nope. Not even close. It’s the hardest to use tool on this list by far.
    Let’s start with the fact that you will be spending a lot of time disassembling and cleaning this unit. The hose can get clogged with material, the seals can rot and corrode, the gun is extra sensitive because of the higher pressure, etc.
    You can get it into tight areas and spray upside down, though. That can make the actual spraying easier since you don’t have to worry about spilling or starving the gun. That’s the reward for how much work it takes to set up. Yet it’s hard to say that it’s worth it if you don’t need it.

    Pros

    Can hold a lot of material
    Pressure fed system can spray in any position
    Low price for a pressurized system

    Cons

    Needs a robust air compressor that is not included
    Hard to clean and maintain

    10. Best Spray Gun For Thick Materials: TCP Global Air Undercoating Gun

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: If you need to spray thick materials, this is a great setup that does not cost very much.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specifications
    Type of Gun: Siphon Feed
    Container Size: 25oz
    Tip Size: n/a
    Air Compressor/Turbine: 9 CFM at 80 PSI air compressor required
    Who Is This Gun For?
    This gun is on the list for those who need to spray thick materials like bed liners or rubberized coatings. The TCP Global Air Gun is a dead-simple siphon gun that can spray anything that fits through the straw in the reservoir. Being simple is also the reason it will probably last forever: there’s nothing to wear out.
    The drawback is that you don’t get any kind of fine control. You won’t be airbrushing ghost flames with this paint gun. Since it’s for things like bed liner and single component undercoatings, that’s probably not an issue. Just make sure you tape off anything that you don’t want sprayed.
    Is It Easy to Use?
    Since it has no tip, no regulator, and no flow control, there is nothing to fiddle with. That does make it very easy to use. Fill the cup with material and connect it to an air hose, and you are good to go.
    The gun is easy to clean. There’s only a couple parts, and they are metal. Simply scrub it down with solvent and call it good. The only thing that stops this from being the most accessible device on the list is the need for an air compressor.

    Pros

    Can spray nearly any liquid
    Inexpensive
    Easy to disassemble and clean

    Cons

    Needs high pressure to work well
    No gun adjustability

    The Complete Guide to Paint Guns
    If you’ve read the quick start guide and seen our recommendations, but are still hungry for more knowledge, then this section is for you. We’ve also included some tips for laying down the perfect finish at the end. Just be aware that there is no substitute for practice. It’s totally ok to paint a few old boxes before attempting a mirror glaze.
    Types of Paint Gun
    There are four main types of paint gun:
    HVLP- High Volume Low Pressure
    We’ve been talking about these things for most of this article, but we can reiterate. An HVLP gun uses low air pressure to mix with a high volume of material and create an even, well-mixed spray. They are less expensive, more common, and easier to use than other styles. The downside to HVLP is that they can’t spray out of position. Check out almost anything on the recommendation list, like the Fuji Semi-Pro, to see an example.
    HVLP guns either pick up the paint from a siphon cup underneath the gun, or a gravity cup above the gun. A gravity feed gun is more efficient than a siphon gun since gravity helps out with the process. A siphon feed gun is a bit simpler. They can be used at a greater number of angles than a gravity feed gun since there is no chance that material can spill out of a cup attached to the bottom. They need more air pressure, though, and can be harder to clean.
    LVLP- Low Volume Low Pressure
    Like HVLP, an LVLP gun uses low-pressure air to atomize material and create an even spray. Unlike HVLP, an LVLP gun does not use a high volume of material. They are more efficient and much more controllable than their high volume counterparts. However, when compared to HVLP, they are much slower. They require lower pressure and spray less material. That means you’ll be spending a lot more time holding down the trigger to cover the same area.
    Like HVLP, an LVLP gun can be gravity feed or siphon feed, although they are much more commonly siphon feed.
    Air Pressure Assisted
    Pressure-assisted guns use a separate pressurized container to feed material into the gun. They are best for thicker materials and for spraying a huge area. With the extra pressure assistance, they can spray out a lot more material than their HVLP and LVLP counterparts. They are harder to use and clean, and like LVLP they have been mainly replaced by HVLP in the hobby and semi-pro realms. There is still one on the recommended list, though, the TCP Global Pressure Pot.
    Airless
    Airless paint sprayers are very common for painting houses since they can pump very thick paint and a very high volume. Like the name implies, they don’t use any air. Instead, they use a pump that just pumps the material straight into the gun with a decent amount of pressure. You really sacrifice a lot of control with an airless gun. That’s why you rarely see someone using one to paint cars.
    Tip Size
    This is easy; the bigger the hole, the thicker the material can be sprayed. Just reference this list:
    1mm or less: Very thin material like diluted lacquer
    1mm-1.3mm: Thin material like clear coats and thinned paint
    4mm-1.7mm: Basecoats, oil paints and thicker clear coats
    8mm-2.2mm: Primers and heavier paints
    >2mm: Latex paints
    Air Source
    Your air source will dictate how much control you have over the spray pattern, the volume of material you can spray at one time, and how long you can spray without taking a break. Usually, your air source will come from one of two devices: a turbine or an air compressor.
    Turbine
    It’s easy to visualize a turbine as a small leaf blower since they work very similarly. Turbines are usually less expensive than an air compressor, but can’t generate the high pressures that a compressor can. They can run continuously and are much smaller than an air compressor, though. That makes them prime candidates for portable painters, painters with a small shop, or painters that want something quieter than a large compressor.
    If a paint sprayer includes an air source, then it’s almost always a turbine. Like the Fuji Mini-Mite from the list, some can stand toe-to-toe with many air compressors in power. Others, like the inexpensive Wagner, are just barely enough to atomize the paint.
    Air Compressor
    An air compressor can fill a tank with compressed air and provide much higher pressure and volume than a turbine. That extra pressure can be used with guns that cover a large area or push thicker materials. It gives you the most amount of control over the materials and patterns. Professional shops that use professional guns like the Finishline on the list use large air compressors.
    Compressors are loud, expensive, and take up a ton of space. Even more efficient HVLP guns like the Campbell Hausfeld on the list still needs a relatively high CFM to work well. If you have a compressor that can’t put out the volume, you’ll have to stop frequently and wait for it to charge. That’s an issue because every time you start and stop is a chance for puddles and unsightly build-up to form.
    Tips for Spraying With Your Paint Gun
    So you have an air source, a gun, and some paint. Now comes the hardest part. If you thought choosing the gun was tough, just wait until you start laying paint down. You’ll learn new curse words like “water contamination” and “orange peel.” If you want to see what those look like, click over to this troubleshooting site to see what horrors await you.
    Don’t worry. Hundreds of thousands of people do it every week, and we have some tips to get you started.
    Safety First
    Wear a mask that can filter out fine particles. Paint is bad for your insides, trust us. If you prefer, trust the CDC. Even with a mask, it’s good to be in a well-ventilated area before you paint. Also, wear gloves when mixing things. If nothing else, it will prevent your hands from being a Pollock painting after the project.
    There, safety rant over.
    Thin Your Materials to the Proper Viscosity
    There is no one size fits all answer to “how thin should my material be.” There are just too many variables: the type of material, the type of thinner, the tip on the gun, the weather, the amount of patience you have, etc. There are tools to measure viscosity, but they are expensive. Instead, here are a few pointers to get you on the right track.
    Use a Notebook
    Keep a notebook around your station and record your ratios. You’ll be able to reference it in the future and re-create ratios that worked well. Try to also note the temperature and humidity so you can make adjustments. Exact numbers don’t matter as much as noting that it was hot like Texas and humid like a Florida swamp. That way, you know to add a lot more thinner when it’s cold like an Alaskan winter.
    Stir your Sample Correctly
    When you stir a sample, make a note of how much sticks to your stir stick. Then you can do a dip test. Just stick a stir stick into the medium and pull it out. The way it flows off the stir stick can tell you a lot about how thin the material is and whether you’re ready to spray.
    Use The Right Thinner
    This is really important if you care about how the final product will look. Water is great for thinning out water-based paint but will absolutely ruin any oil-based product. Some materials have their own special thinners and reducers. Generally, having a bottle of mineral spirits and acetone on hand will cover all your bases.
    Google It
    If you go to Google and type “the best way to thin X paint for an HVLP sprayer,” you will get tons of answers. That will give you an excellent place to start.
    Keep The Gun Clean
    Nothing is more important than cleanliness when spraying paint. The opening on a fine sprayer is less than the thickness of a tooth pick. A speck of dust can clog the tip and ruin your day. Unless you have removable, disposable tips like the Accuspray, you should focus on keeping the tip and needle clean. Take apart the gun and soak the pieces in thinner and wipe them down before and after every use.
    Don’t let the material dry inside the gun
    Run thinner through the gun after you finish spraying until it comes out clean. Especially finishes that are meant to harden and protect the paint. If those set inside your spray gun, then you might as well have poured concrete down it because the result is the same.
    Practice
    No one got good at anything without practicing. What makes it more difficult is that every paint gun is different. Even two HVLP guns with similar specifications can behave differently. You’ll have to just practice with whatever gun you decide to buy. You can find the best techniques to practice on Youtube. It really helps to see what motions you’ll want to perform. This video by Tom Stringham is a bit dry but covers just about everything you’d want to know from set up to spray technique.
    If you feel like keeping it simple then just make sure to practice keeping a consistent distance and angle to the surface. The more evenly you can keep the fan pattern on the work, the better your results will be.
    The Final Word on Paint Guns
    Nothing completes a car as much as a great paint job. When your car has a perfect cherry finish, you can join the exclusive club of people whose anxiety spikes at car shows when you see children running around with ice cream. However, a good shop will charge you at least three arms and one leg for that privilege. That’s a big ouch.
    Doing it yourself can be terrifying and confusing. Don’t let it be. You’re happy to turn the wrench on every other part of your car, don’t let a little paint scare you off. Use this guide. Buy a great sprayer, practice a little, and let the reward of a well-done job wash over you. More

  • in

    The Best Performance Chips to Buy in 2020

    These days, it feels like everything you interact with in your life has been brought into the digital age, and the vehicle you drive is no exception. As far back as the 1970s, manufacturers were using computing to bring the most out of their engines. Interacting with this programming meant a pricey shop visit in the past, but now you can take control by installing a performance chip. Whether you’re buying a custom tuning package from a specialist vendor, looking to take a hands on approach to tweaking your vehicle, or even just monitoring your engine’s status, these chips open up a world of digital possibilities.

    Things to Consider When Buying Performance Chips
    What Are Performance Chips, and How Do They Work?
    Unless you’re behind the wheel of an old fashioned classic, odds are the engine of the car you’re driving is controlled by some form of a computer. This computer, known as the ECU (Engine Control Unit) – or EEMS (Electronic Engine Management System) in some cases – is what controls the physical actuators in your engine. These actuators are used to control everything from your air-fuel mixture to your ignition timing and idle speeds.
    It’s this computer that most performance chips interface with, whether you’re plugging them into the ODB-II port or directly into the ECU itself. There are some special exceptions, like throttle response controllers that hook directly in line with their respective electronics. At the end of the day, when most people think of tuning up a car, what they’re thinking of is changing the settings on the ECU. That’s the job most performance chips set out to complete.
    Vehicle Make, Model, and Year
    While there are some performance chips that are borderline universally compatible, every manufacturer has their own operating systems and proprietary technologies that need to be interfaced with. The last thing you want to do is buy a chip intended for a Jeep when you only own Fords, or vice versa. You may even find performance chips meant for a specific range of years, thanks to continually evolving technology. Even if you own the right make and model, this is one of those things where it pays to be detail oriented.
    Amazon itself has a handy widget that automatically displays whenever you’re browsing auto parts, which we highly recommend making use of, but you always want to double check your results before making a purchase with confidence.
    Type of Performance Chip
    Performance chips generally fall into three categories. We’ll go into the finer details of the differences between them in our complete guide to performance chips below, but the main decision you’ll need to make is whether you want a power programmer that’s plugged in to install new tunes then removed or a control module that both monitors and adjusts settings in real time.
    Intended Use
    What you want out of installing a chip into your vehicle is one of the most important questions to answer before you start browsing and potentially overwhelming yourself with the options. Some of these performance chips are generalists, meant to give you access to as many of the systems as they can, but others are highly specialized pieces of equipment. If you’re setting out with a specific want or need from your vehicle, you’re going to need to keep it in mind.
    Power
    For somebody looking just to maximize their truck when towing a heavy load or driving up a steep hill, the Insight CTS2’s high-resolution display gauges are informative but won’t help nearly as much as the plug and play simplicity of the Active Fuel Management Disabler.
    Efficiency
    Likewise, you wouldn’t want to buy a performance chip focused on maximizing horsepower alone when what you’re really looking for is better MPG (miles per gallon) out of your engine. You can find much more detail on the different types of performance chips in our full buyer’s guide further down the page.
    Customizability
    Essentially all tuning performance chips come with their own tuning programs pre-installed, but some of them allow you to install new settings from third-party vendors. You’ll even find chips that leave this completely up to you to configure. It’s worth deciding ahead of time if you want to dive deep into the settings yourself or let an expert handle the somewhat complicated process. There’s no right answer here, since only you can make the right call when it comes to which suits your needs best.
    With many performance chips on the market, it’s hard to find one compatible with your vehicle, let alone the right one for you, so we’ve put together a list of the ten best performance chips available today.

    Top 10 Best Performance Chips 2020

    1. Best Overall Performance Chip: SCT Performance BDX

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: Combining monitoring capabilities with custom tunes, plug and play functionality, and a wide range of supported models, this easy to use performance chip is a great option whether you’re an enthusiast or just trying to get the most out of your daily driver.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: Ford, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Chevrolet, GM, Cadillac, and Toyota
    Type: Power programmer
    With a focus on simplicity and ease of use, you’ll be up and running quickly with this tuner no matter what model of Ford you drive. Connect it to your OBD-II port and either choose from one of the installed tunes or dive straight into the real-time engine diagnostics. As far as tuning performance chips go, this one embodies the nature of ‘plug and play’.
    Updates are quick and easy, since the WiFi feature lets you connect to the internet and download updates without requiring you to plug it into a computer. You’ll still need access to an internet connection to get these updates, though, so you’re not completely untethered.
    It comes packed with pre-loaded tunes, ready to use on the vehicle of your choice as long as there’s a profile for it. If you can’t find a tune that suits your needs or your model, you can install up to ten custom profiles… the catch being that these custom profiles are best sourced from reputable tuning dealers that have experience with SCT Performance’s firmware. That means you potentially pay extra just to make it work with your vehicle or tweak the settings exactly how you want.
    It’s also really important to look up your local dealers and find out if they make tunes for SCT or one of the alternatives, because that’s going to decide how easy it is to get your hands on custom tunes.
    All things considered, this is a great choice for the driver who wants a happy medium between customization, power, and ease of use, as long as they’re willing to possibly invest a little more than the price of entry to take it to the next level.

    Pros

    Great model compatibility
    Easy to use, easy to read
    WiFi equipped for quick updates, even in the garage
    Pre-loaded with ready to use tunes

    Cons

    Custom tunes have to be purchased from tuner dealers

    2. Best Budget Performance Chip: Range Technology Active Fuel Management Disable Device

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: An affordable device meant for high-load scenarios that excels at exactly what it claims to. This chip is a low-impact, no nonsense power boost for V6/V8 engines and a great example of how beneficial installing a performance chip can be.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: GMC V6 and V8 engines using Active Fuel Management
    Type: Control module
    General Motors’ AFM (Active Fuel Management) technology was introduced around 2003 as a way to improve fuel economy by only using four out of the six or eight cylinders within the engine under regular use. Though there’s been research examining just how beneficial the system is, there’s still been little talk of giving full control to the owner. That’s where this performance chip comes in.
    Advertised to drivers that often find themselves in high-load situations but valuable to anyone looking to maximize their vehicle’s power, this chip is plugged into the truck’s OBD-II port and begins working immediately. With the AFM tech disabled, your truck runs on all eight cylinders even under light loads. Access to the full potential of your engine at all times means no more sluggish acceleration or unpredictable spurts of power.
    It doesn’t interfere with the truck’s computing system, meaning the chip can be removed without leaving a trace – leaving your warranty and the rest of your vehicle’s computer safe and sound.
    Turning off the fuel economy feature of your truck doesn’t come without its drawbacks. You’ll lose out on whatever miles per gallon you’d have gained by running in four cylinder mode and run the risk of increased wear and tear on your truck or minor glitches like your check engine light coming on.
    If you really want to make the most out of the horsepower you have, we think this is one of the best options for towers, haulers, off-roaders and highway stars alike. Compared to other performance chips of its kind, we found Range Technology offers the best bang for your buck.

    Pros

    Simple “set it and forget” style installation
    Won’t void warranties
    Provides a real, measurable power boost

    Cons

    May negatively impact miles per gallon

    3. Best Premium Performance Chip: Edge Products Insight CTS2

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: With nearly universal model support and a high-resolution touch screen display, while this monitor lacks tuning capabilities it sports some of the best digital gauges on the market.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: Any vehicle with an OBD-II port
    Type: Power programmer (monitoring only)
    Though it can’t do any tuning of the engine itself, this performance chip specializes in monitoring your vehicle and pairs well with many of the other options on this list. Changing many of the settings or options might not have effects so obvious you can tell they’re working just by sitting behind the wheel. As convenient as those chips you simply slide into a port and forget about are, if you’re interested in seeing what’s really going on under the hood, you’ll need a monitor like this.
    It sports compatibility with nearly all of the sensors your vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) is already utilizing, from temperatures to pressures and RPMs. This unfortunately means you’ll need to provide your own for any that are lacking, and Edge Products’ EAS (Expandable Accessory System) can quickly inflate the overall price. Once your sensors are all hooked up into the system, you’ll find they’re very easy to access.
    Switching between the various sets of customizable gauges is as simple as tapping or swiping across the durable touch screen. We really liked being able to set status alerts and reminders for maintenance too – it’s hard to forget an oil change when you get reminded as soon as you start the car.
    Though you’ll have a one-year guaranteed warranty, for technical issues beyond that window Edge Products won’t service your chip for free. If your touch screen winds up becoming unresponsive or the unit begins frequently locking up, they have technicians who’ll solve your issue as quickly possible, but you’ll be paying for it.
    Potential tech problems aside, we think this is still a great addition to the dashboard for anyone in need of a set of digital gauges.

    Pros

    High-resolution 5” touch-screen display
    Easy to read and durable design
    Real-time monitoring with accurate feedback
    Customizable colors

    Cons

    Potentially expensive accessories required
    Repairs outside 12-month warranty require costly support

    4. Best Power Programmer for Diesel Engines: PHP Hydra Tuner

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A labor of love aimed straight at the hearts of 7.3L PowerStroke drivers, this simple looking chip takes a less locked down approach to custom tuning by letting you handle the installation yourself without sacrificing any crucial functionality.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: 7.3L PowerStroke diesel engines (1994-2003)
    Type: Power programmer
    If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option focused on power alone, the PHP (Power Hungry Performance) Hydra isn’t the only chip available for 7.3L engines, but it’s arguably the most robust offering for that reliable diesel engine ever made.
    Though simple looking at first glance, you’re greeted by a display telling you what profile you’ve selected and a couple of buttons to swap through them. There are seventeen positions in total, including the chip bypass, and each one can store a custom tuning profile of your choice.
    Unlike the other custom power programmers on the market, when PHP found they couldn’t store standard options for every supported truck on their chip they turned to the internet. You’ll only need to go shopping for a custom tune if you want to – the rest are easily found and downloaded from PHP’s site online.
    The convenience of installing chips from the comfort of your own home can’t be overstated. Tune dealers can even encrypt the custom profiles you’ve ordered and e-mail them to you, no shop visit involved. With an extra USB accessory, you won’t even have to unplug the chip from your truck to install new profiles.
    There’s a lot other companies could learn from PHP’s efforts to make custom tuning as headache free as possible, so we can confidently say you’ll be hard pressed to find a better performance chip for your 7.3L PowerStroke.

    Pros

    A huge online library of standard tunes
    USB installation of up to 16 custom tunes
    Chip bypass and anti-theft features built in
    Minimalist design means no messing with menus and submenus

    Cons

    Lacking in feedback features
    Limited make and model compatibility

    5. Best Performance Chip for Jeep Wranglers: Superchips Flashcal F5 Tuner

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: An awesome and affordable handheld tool for any Jeep Wrangler owner looking to tune settings outside of their drivetrain.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: Jeep Wranglers
    Type: Power programmer
    Developed by Superchips, a brand name with a 40 year legacy in tuning, the Flashcal F5 is a programmer chip designed specifically for Jeep Wranglers. Though it lacks access to the drivetrain settings out of the box, we found this chip a great choice for anyone who’s changed their gear ratios or tire sizes and found their Jeep not responding the way it used to.
    Aside from quickly and easily recalibrating the speedometer after a tire change, you can also adjust a slew of lighting and electrical options. If you’ve ever wished you could stop the horn from going off every time you lock your Jeep or needed to adjust fuse delay settings after hooking up an aftermarket accessory, once you’re installed it’s as simple as plugging the chip in and changing what you like.
    The installation and updating processes aren’t overly complicated, but it’s a bit more hands on than some of the other options on this list. You’ll want to follow the instructions very carefully, because a misconfiguration can lead to unwanted outcomes like electrical system glitches. Without WiFi support, you’ll need to have a Windows-based computer to update the programmer’s firmware. These updates often include support for features in newer Jeep Wrangler models, so we don’t recommend skipping them. There are also paid upgrades that add functionality to your Flashcal, turning it into a full blown tuner in both features and price.
    Fortunately, if you end up with any issues Superchips has a reputation for being really easy to work with when it comes to any and all support needed throughout the installation and use of their chips.
    For a Jeep Wrangler owner that finds themselves often making aftermarket tweaks to their vehicle, we found the Flashcal a great convenience for a budget price.

    Pros

    Makes recalibrating after a tire size or gear ratio change a breeze
    Free firmware upgrades with latest Jeep features
    Great customer support

    Cons

    Drivetrain tuning options require paid upgrade

    6. Best Active Fuel Management Chip: DiabloSport Sprint Car Fuel Management Module

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: A dedicated AFM (Active Fuel Management) disabler that’s easy to install and doesn’t void your warranty. We think it’s a great alternative to similar products, especially with the pedigree of DiabloSport’s name behind it.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: GMC V6 and V8 engines using Active Fuel Management
    Type: Control module
    Made by DiabloSport, a company that’s been producing well-regarded performance chips for almost twenty years now, this Fuel Management Module serves a similar purpose to the Range Technology AFM Disabler and is a great option for anybody looking for an alternative.
    Just like the Range Technology offering, this chip plugs into your ODB-II port and bypasses your vehicle’s computer to outright disable the Active Fuel Management technology that holds your engine back in 4-cylinder mode. You remove the sluggish acceleration entirely with this plugged in – all 6 or 8 cylinders made available no matter how light your vehicle’s computer thinks the load conditions are.
    When we compared the two chips they came out nearly neck-and-neck, so being the slightly less budget friendly option does hold DiabloSport’s offering back. That doesn’t make this performance chip any less reliable of a choice, though – if you’re looking for a quick way to disable AFM, it’ll work just as easily as its competition.

    Pros

    Quick and easy installation, remains in your OBD-II port
    Won’t void your warranty
    Provides that power boost and smooth acceleration curve V4 mode can’t

    Cons

    May decrease your mileage
    Higher price without extra features

    7. Best Throttle Chip: Pedal Commander Throttle Response Controller

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: We love being able to take control of the response curve and getting our sensitivity dialed in at the touch of a few buttons. It’s hard to go back to stock settings once you’ve had a go.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: Dodge Charger 2007 and newer, also available for Toyota, Durango, and Jeep models with electric gas pedals
    Type: Control module
    Electric gas pedals were invented in the name of efficiency and consumer comfort. Replacing a bulky analog pedal with a light digital one makes a world of difference when you’re spending lots of time behind the wheel, be it traveling or daily commuting… but we’ve found that something can often get lost in the translation when trying to recreate that familiar response digitally.
    The Pedal Commander’s control module, designed specifically for cars with electric gas pedals, plugs directly in-line with your throttle sensor. There are 36 sensitivity settings for your pedal, split into four main modes with nine profiles each. Thanks to the digital nature of an electric pedal, there’s a large difference in feel between each of these modes. Whether you’re looking to save on gas mileage, emulate that throttle feel from an old daily driver, or see just how responsive you can get your acceleration, you’ll find options to dial in the feel just right.
    You can adjust these options over Bluetooth via an app on your phone, letting you stash the chip itself away. This is a feature we recommend you take advantage of, because finding the right sensitivity level for you can take a lot of tweaking. You’ll have to be patient and put up with some trial and error to get the feel exactly the way you want it, but it does pay off in the end.
    Because this performance chip is in-line with the throttle sensors, your vehicle’s computer interprets any odd data as an actual throttle error. This can result in sometimes misleading error codes being thrown, or the dreaded ‘limp home mode’ activating, which disables non-essential features like air-conditioning and reduces your speed in an attempt to protect the engine.
    Despite potential glitches, we’d be hard pressed to find you a better suited chip for adjusting the response curve of your throttle, so it comes highly recommended to anyone looking to do so.

    Pros

    Fine-grained control over throttle response
    Can be controlled with an app on your phone
    Won’t void warranties

    Cons

    Device errors can trigger your vehicle’s limp mode or throw confusing codes
    Requires a lot of trial and error to get your settings just right

    8. Best Horsepower-boosting Performance Chip: TS Performance 6 Position Chip

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: Though it’s only for a specific range of cars and isn’t entirely upfront with how it achieves its results, this chip still provides one of the largest legitimate raw horsepower boosts in the performance chip market for Ford diesels.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: 7.3L PowerStroke Diesel Engines (1994-2003)
    Type: Control module
    What this chip lacks in compatibility and tuning features it more than makes up in kick. Installation is as easy as plugging it in and finding a good place to mount the knob. This chip has six settings, claiming boosts from 50 to 140 horsepower and beyond, so it’s easy to adjust exactly how much of a power increase you’re looking for. There’s even an anti-theft mode, adding an extra layer of security to your truck most thieves wouldn’t even think to check for.
    As much as we like the feel of power turning a chip like this up gives, there are a few odd catches. Ordering involves sending the specifics about your vehicle to TS Performance directly (including your PCM box code, for residents of California). If you forget this step or make a mistake, you’ll be sent a blank chip that won’t work with your truck out of the box. The company is willing to resolve your issue, but you’ll have to eat a restocking fee plus whatever it takes to ship back.
    If you use this chip in conjunction with a monitor like the Insight CTS2 or SCT’s offering, you’ll probably find some very odd readings coming from your engine. That’s because TS Performance’s chip “tricks” the vehicle’s computer into providing the results it wants by feeding it altered sensor data. It’s harmless to your engine, but if you have any other performance chips in use that rely on sensors, there’s a chance they won’t work properly with this one.
    If the truck you drive falls in the range of supported models, do yourself a favor and look into this affordable chip.

    Pros

    Provides one of the largest horsepower boosts to your rear wears available
    Surprisingly effective as an aftermarket anti-theft device
    Won’t void your warranty

    Cons

    Narrow selection of compatible vehicles
    May tamper with the operation of other performance chips

    9. Easiest Performance Chip to Use: DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum Performance Programmer

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: An awesome option for the tuner looking for an all-in-one device, with easy to find custom tune dealers and the ability to invest in the tuning software suite without having to run a business first.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: GM, with other inTune models supporting Chrysler and Ford
    Type: Power programmer
    DiabloSport’s power programmer offering manages to keep it surprisingly quick and simple when it comes to tuning your vehicle. Much like its contemporaries, it’s as easy as plugging it in and choosing from the available pre-loaded options – as long as your vehicle is supported. For those that find themselves left out in the cold, custom tunes are available from dealers.
    With the WiFi support and surprisingly hardy case, it’s hard not to get the impression this chip lends itself well to drivers who need that extra durability and portability out of their electronics. That means you don’t have to worry so much about mounting it on your dashboard, which lets you take full advantage of the real-time monitoring and diagnostics.
    The custom tunes don’t come cheap, especially if you’re looking to buy the CMR software and make your own. While it’s also nice there are chips for so many different makes we found the naming schemes potential confusing. DiabloSport offers cheaper versions that lack the custom tuning features but are labeled extremely similarly, so if you’re here for those make absolutely sure you’re buying the right chip.
    As one of the top contenders for custom tuning capabilities out there today, you won’t find a lack of shops that support the CMR tuning system. Ultimately, which power programmer you choose should come down to what’s available from the dealers you trust.

    Pros

    Comes out of the box with plenty of tunes loaded
    WiFi support for updating
    Easily installed right into your OBD-II port
    Very durable, rugged design

    Cons

    Frequent updates and paid model upgrades can be hard to keep up with
    Custom tunes have to be bought or made in expensive software

    10. SCT Performance Livewire TS+ Performance Tuner and Monitor

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: You’re getting the same tuning power and custom tuning options of its handheld sibling, but with the addition of an LCD display perfect for mounting on your dashboard long term.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Quick Notes
    Vehicle Make/Model: Ford
    Type: Power programmer, monitor
    SCT Performance’s attempt at a premium bundle packages their powerful tuning suite with a high quality monitor, the Livewire TS+ feels a little bit like a combination between the X4 and the Insight CTS2 in terms of feature set. Equipped with a smaller screen than the latter, you do lose some gauge readability, but in practice you’ll be too focused on results to dwell on the single lost inch.
    The real star here is, as usual, the vast SCT Performance custom tuning ecosystem. Using either one of the pre-loaded stock tunes in the Livewire or visiting an SCT-certified dealer, you can push your vehicle further than you ever thought possible. The big advantage to the Livewire is you can then take your vehicle out for a spin and watch the data in real time on a display meant for mounting. Anyone who’s ever tried to drive around with their handheld X4 plugged in can probably attest to how inconvenient it is to read, so this is a great way to tune and keep tabs on your engine all at once.
    As a premium package with a price to match, the Livewire TS+ needs to lift a little more weight to compete with the more affordable options. While it’s definitely worth the cost, we found ourselves wondering if it truly beat combining a handheld tuner with a separate, dedicated monitor. You’re rarely if ever adjusting tuning settings while actually driving, and if you’re going to be pulling over either way, keeping your handheld power programmer in the glovebox isn’t hard to do.
    If you’re looking for a premium, all-in-one package from a single company, the Livewire TS+ is a great choice.

    Pros

    Touch-screen display combines features of a monitor and tuner
    Compatible with most of SCT’s custom tunes, even ones you already own
    Configurable warnings and alerts

    Cons

    You’ll pull over to tune, making the convenience gain debatable
    High enough price tag mixing and matching other chips becomes a viable alternative

    Guide to Buying the Best Performance Chips

    Types of Performance Chips
    Power Programmers
    One of the more common and easiest to use types, power programmers plug into your vehicle’s OBD-II port, giving them direct access to the settings of your engine’s computer. Most of these chips are designed to upload your new settings before being unplugged and stowed away, rarely needing to be hooked up for more than ten or fifteen minutes at a time. But there are monitors like the Insight CTS2 that remain in the OBD-II port full time as well.
    No replacing or fundamental altering of your vehicle’s computer is going on with this type of performance chip – you’re simply telling it what to recalibrate.
    Control Modules
    Control models are often mounted directly in the engine compartment, plugging directly into the electronics of your vehicle. Whereas a power programmer has to wait for the vehicle’s computer to receive and interpret the data streaming from the sensors, a control module will step in before it ever reaches that point, interpreting the data itself before passing on the tuning adjustments. That means your profiles can be adjusted in response to real-time engine data without having to pull over and plug in your chip like a power programmer. Control modules stay plugged in at all times when in use, and are low profile enough you might forget they’re even there.
    This type of chip usually comes with some kind of a performance monitor for the dashboard, letting you keep track of or even alter the tuning profiles without having to pop open the hood and take it out. Even if you do have to remove it, since control modules usually plug straight into the computer or sensor it’s as simple as removing the cord – no soldering required.
    Engine Management Systems (EMS)
    When a power programmer or control module isn’t enough, an EMS device doesn’t merely recalibrate or intercept the data going into your vehicle’s computer – it’s a whole new system, designed to prioritize peak performance. These are also installed in your engine compartment, but your old computer is unhooked, with your new EMS taking its place entirely. This gives you complete access to your vehicle’s control systems. They can even be connected to a desktop or laptop computer so you can adjust settings or view valuable statistics.
    As engine management systems are generally very expensive and normally only used by professional mechanics, we’ve concentrated on performance chips and control modules for this guide.
    Protecting your Warranty
    You’ll sometimes find performance chips touting how they leave your vehicle’s warranty intact on use as a feature. These chips can do so because they don’t change the settings on your ECU directly. While nobody is going to stop you from tuning up your vehicle, much like breaking a warranty seal on your electronics, altering the settings from their factory defaults puts you in uncharted territory.
    Unless specially stated otherwise in your warranty agreement, manufacturers can’t and won’t guarantee parts under untested conditions. This is part of the risk you take when getting into aftermarket tuning, but as long as you’ve got the right know-how, you should be fine on your own.
    Performance Chips FAQ
    Is it legal to use a performance chip on my vehicle?
    As long as your performance chip doesn’t bypass a vehicle’s computer protection scheme, performance chips are legal in all 50 states, with some exceptions for California. Residents of California should check with the CARB (California Air Resources Board) for specific exceptions.
    How is a performance chip installed?
    Most performance chips are plug and play – just connect right into your vehicle’s OBD-II port and you’re good to go. But it’s not uncommon for certain types of chips, particularly Control Modules, to be installed directly into your car’s electrical system in the engine compartment.
    What are the risks of using a performance chip?
    You’re not going to cause any real damage to your engine using a reputable performance chip, as changing around ignition timing, air/fuel mixtures, or electrical settings is pretty harmless in the overall scheme of things. Corrupted firmware or careless set up can result in computer glitches that might need a reset, though, and some chips can cause you to fail an emissions test if you’re in a high-performance mode at the time.
    Do performance chips really work?
    Yes, performance chips not only work but many do exactly what they claim to. As long as you’re doing your homework and purchasing a chip with a good reputation, you’ll find a huge variety of working chips to choose from.
    How do I install a performance chip?
    If you’ve never installed a performance chip before, you might be surprised by just how easy it is. Though the steps vary depending on the type of chip you’re using, the process of installing a performance chip is straightforward and rarely takes over half an hour.
    Final Thoughts
    Choosing from the best performance chips is as much about the driver as it is the vehicle. The more informed you are before making a purchase, the happier you’re going to be with the end result. While many of the options on this list can bring your engine to life in ways you’ve never thought possible, it’s important to be reasonable with your expectations. A performance chip won’t give you dozens of miles per gallon or drastically increase the horsepower of your engine without huge drawbacks, but they will help you get the most out of the potential that’s already there. More

  • in

    The 10 Best Foam Cannons to Buy in 2020

    All car owners want their vehicle to look shiny and squeaky clean, ideally without too much hassle. Car washes are great, but the overall cost can add up over time. Why not treat yourself to a professional-grade car cleaning tool to be used whenever you wish in the privacy of your own home? Well, toss away that antiquated soap bucket; foam cannons are your ticket to success.
    Foam cannons are a simple attachment to your average pressure washer. They spray thick loads of foam that can tackle the nastiest dirt and grime materials on your vehicle, but do it gently enough to keep from harming your paint job in the process. It sure beats the old fashioned soap/garden hose combo, that’s for sure!
    In this article, we are going to focus on the best foam cannons out there on the market today. First, we’re going to showcase the bare minimum of what you should know about foam cannons before making an informed purchase. After that, we’ll get straight into the product reviews (because that’s what you’re here for, right?) Finally, we’ll cap off the article with an extended buyer’s guide that will enrich your understanding of foam cannons and the various complexities behind them.
    Are you ready? Let’s dive into this bad boy so you can get closer to spraying down your car in no time flat!

    Factors to Consider for Foam Cannons
    Here are a couple of quick and easy points of consideration to make before purchasing a high-quality foam cannon for your auto needs. If you are wanting more information on foam cannons, please be sure to look at our extended buyer’s guide at the tail-end of our product reviews for a more in-depth look on the ins and outs of these types of products.
    How You Will Use It
    One of the first things you should determine before purchasing a foam cannon is the type of one you need to buy. Most foam cannons connect with either gas or electric pressure washers. Some, however, are manufactured to connect to your average backyard garden hose. We don’t recommend such things, however, since garden hoses can not expend as much raw power and force, making them far less efficient at car cleaning than a pressure washer and causing you to waste more time in the process of getting an even clean. Long story short: invest in a pressure washer if you intend to purchase a quality foam cannon!
    Your Pressure Washer Stats
    If you do go the pressure washer route with a foam cannon, it’s also important to know the nitty-gritty of your very own pressure washer. Be sure the foam cannon you purchase falls into the proper PSI/GPM range; otherwise, you might waste money on foam cannon that doesn’t match up with the specs of your pressure washer.
    What Material It’s Made Of
    In a lot of areas of life, the adage of “you get what you pay for” remains true. Foam cannons are no exception to this rule. Be sure to look for foam cannon options that are made of high-quality materials such as tough plastics that won’t degrade over time. Be sure that the connector and fitting materials are of high quality as well. Brass is the standard nowadays when it comes to these sorts of things, as it is a tough and reliable material and is prized for its resilience to corrosion and generally is not prone to rust unlike a lot of other metals.
    Foam Quantity
    Ideally, you’re going to want to go for a foam cannon that holds quite a bit of liquid, at or above 30 ounces. This will allow you to clean your vehicle for longer periods without having to constantly stop to refill the foam cannon. You can see how this can improve one’s efficiency as a whole. Don’t spend any more time washing your car than you have to!
    Now that you know what to look for, let’s explore the best foam cannons on the market.

    Top 10 Best Foam Cannons 2020

    1. Best Overall Pick: MATCC Adjustable Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This foam cannon has a lot of range in its foam output due to its high-quality foam lance mechanism.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    This is a great quality foam cannon that is inexpensive while also providing a lot of value in the process. Coming with a sizable 33-ounce bottle, you’re not going to be running back and forth trying to fill this bad boy up. This is great for impatient car owners that want to get in, clean their car, and go on about their day with zero hassle in between.
    In terms of construction, this foam cannon is solidly built. It not only has brass connectors, allowing for a tightness that is conducive to strong levels of pressure, but it also has a body made out of durable brass as well. This product will certainly take a beating!
    The big addition to this foam cannon is it has an adjustable foam lance. This allows the cannon a greater level of foam control concentration, which is useful for touch-ups and larger dirt-laden sections of your vehicle. The spray nozzle itself is also adjustable, making it easy to alter how wide or narrow you want your spraying pattern to be, overall.
    Verdict
    This is one of the best low-cost entries to foam cannons. While its opaque design leaves something to be desired in terms of seeing how much soapy liquid you have stored in it, you really can’t argue with its price point as well as its highly adjustable nature. With this foam cannon, you simply cannot go wrong.

    Pros

    Adjustable water regulator
    33-ounce storage
    Adjustable spray nozzle
    One year warranty

    Cons

    The opaque design makes seeing the level of soap very difficult

    2. Best for Home and Professional Use: Dusichin SFL-001 Adjustable Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This foam cannon is highly affordable and designed with both the professional as well as the layman in mind.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3,000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2-5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    One look at this foam cannon and you can easily discern that it screams quality. This product is marketed for both home and professional use, bringing the best of both worlds into one package.
    This foam cannon comes complete with high-grade brass connector parts that merge the cannon with a pressure washer. The brass connectors are a fantastic addition as they create a snug fit between the foam cannon and the pressure washer, ensuring maximum pressure is possible every step of the way.
    Another great addition to this product is the sizable 33-ounce bottle attached to the foam cannon. This is more than enough to last many uses before it needs additional fillup of car soap. The Dusichin also comes with an adjustable lance which helps with changing up the soap/water mix for small little touch-ups that don’t require a lot of cleaning solution.
    Verdict
    Much like the previous product the only real downside we could find with this foam cannon is its opaque design. This obviously can inhibit viewing just how much soapy fluid you have left, making ascertaining whether or not you need to fill up the foam cannon a bit more challenging than other models. However, as it stands, this is a fantastic product and a highly affordable option for the individual that wants to enter into the wide world of foam cannons without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    33-ounce bottle
    Foam thickness control knob
    Brass connectors for maximum tightness
    Incredible price
    Marketed for both professionals and home-use

    Cons

    The opaque design makes it hard to see how much soap you have remaining

    3. Most Nozzle Variety: Tool Daily Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon

    Why we like it: This incredible foam cannon set comes with a variety of colored nozzle types that alter spraying angles.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 to 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    This powerful 33oz foam cannon comes with five different nozzle tips that can help you to get the best spray for your car. In fact, these nozzles justify the purchase of the product before we even get into the other great features of this foam cannon.
    First things first, the nozzles themselves are each distinct in terms of color, making it very easy to know what you’re searching for right before a hardcore car cleaning session. Each one sprays at a different angle, giving you a lot of options in terms of how you can attack a dirty vehicle with ease and precision. Feel like changing your mind mid-spray? You’re in luck; each nozzle has a quick disconnect design, making impromptu nozzle changes quick and painless.
    Another great feature of this product is that it is universally compatible with all commercially available pressure washers, and without needing any kind of special tools or fasteners. You’re always going to get a leak-free fit with this product.
    To round out an already stellar foam cannon, this product also comes with a see-through design, which is fantastic for ascertaining just how much soapy product you have left during a washing session.
    Verdict
    The only real negative thing we noticed with this product is that the foam production could maybe be a bit thicker, but as it stands it still produces more than enough to get the job done. When you consider all of the versatility that comes with the included color-coded nozzles and the universality of its design, you really can’t complain.

    Pros

    Five different colored nozzles for adjustable spray angles
    Durable plastic design
    See-through container design
    Has a water regulator knob

    Cons

    The foam production could be thicker

    4. MTM Hydro Professional Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This high-grade foam cannon is made for powerful pressure washers and can accommodate water pressure up to 5,000 PSI.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1100 PSI – 5000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 1.8 – 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 32oz
    Review
    This is THE foam cannon for spraying the thickest layers of foam you could ever dream of. If you’ve got a large vehicle and don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning it, buying the MTM Hydro is a must!
    Probably one of the most eye-popping features of the MTM Hydro is the fact that it can be used with pressures up to 5000 PSI. This is an incredible amount of pressure that will be able to blast away the nastiest of dirt, stains, and possibly anything else we can’t think of at this time! This product has an excellent flow rate as well, varying from 1.8 to 5.3 GPM, giving the user a level of control over the amount of sudsy water used at any given time.
    The adjustable fan system in the nozzle can be finely tuned for extremely wide jets of foam. This makes it adept at large-scale cleaning jobs for bigger trucks and SUVs. It gives you the power and agency to fully coat a vehicle, then scale it down a bit for finer details. The versatility of this model of foam cannon cannot be understated.
    Verdict
    Nothing’s perfect, not even this beast of a foam cannon. For starters, it’s a bit more expensive than most models on this list, making it a bad choice for an intro-level sud-slinger. On top of that, it’s a good idea to own a high-level power washer before even purchasing this product, as it requires at least 1,100 PSI to even be utilized decently, but more is recommended, especially for a beastly foam cannon such as this, otherwise you’re just not doing it justice.

    Pros

    High-powered foam cannon
    Can go up to 5000 PSI
    Adjustable fan for wider foam jets
    Great for large vehicles

    Cons

    Requires a fairly powerful pressure washer to get the full effect
    Pricey

    5. Best Budget Pick: Fasmov Car Wash Adjustable Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: It seems boring on the outside, but this no-frills foam cannon more than gets the job done for a low price.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 2,320 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 to 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    On the outside, this foam cannon seems really bare. In fact, amazingly enough, there’s zero indication that Fasmov even makes this product in the first place, as there’s no logo on the bottle itself! Don’t let the bareness of this foam cannon fool you, though, it does the job with the bare minimum.
    As far as a connector for your pressure washer goes, it comes with a standard brass connector, ensuring a certain level of tightness for decent water pressure. The package is rounded out with a foam thickness knob, Again, nothing fancy but still very solid.
    As far as the total amount of fluid, this thing holds 1L total, which is more than enough for several car wash sessions easily. On top of that, the bottle has a see-through design, so it is very easy to see the remainder of the cleaning solution you have left. There’s definitely no guesswork involved with this bad boy!
    Verdict
    The biggest downside we found with the Fasmov foam cannon was that it doesn’t have as high of a maximum PSI as other models on this list, so if you’re looking for something that can crank out the highest water pressure possible, look elsewhere. However, if you’re willing to get your feet wet with an introductory foam cannon model, this might be a great place to start.

    Pros

    Affordable
    Sturdy plastic build
    No-frills design
    Adjustable spray nozzle
    See-through design

    Cons

    The maximum pressure is lower than other models

    6. Best Premium Pick: TriNova Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: TriNova is a brand known for giving consumers the premium option when it comes to foam cannons, and this product is certainly no exception.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 800 PSI – 3,200 PSI
    Flow Rate: 1.4 to 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    This foam cannon comes with all of the regular structural attachments and settings. A tough and durable brass connector keeps water pressure in check while the adjustable nozzle allows you to change foam density in the blink of an eye.
    The real crowning achievement of this foam cannon is the absolutely tough and hardy design it is crafted with. Not only is this constructed out of high-grade plastic, but it also comes with an extra-wide neck attachment which is rarely seen in foam cannon designs. This is a game-changer, in a sense, because it forces the foam cannon to disperse total pressure outwards, keeping this weak area from breaking under pressure, which can happen with some models. This ultimately makes the TriNova foam cannon the ultimate buy for someone looking for an option with longevity.
    Verdict
    Unfortunately, the wider and tougher neck design comes with a price. The TriNova foam cannon requires you to own a pressure washer that is at least in the 1000 PSI range to start with. Another issue is that this product doesn’t come with its own connector out of the box, so you’re going to have to make that purchase separately. This definitely isn’t a “one-stop-shop” sort of product.
    However, if you already have a pressure washer of that caliber, or your wallet can handle purchasing one, this is easily the best premium option on this list. Its durability will last you for many years to come without fail.

    Pros

    Durable construction
    Can work with lower water pressure than other models
    Adjustable flow rate

    Cons

    Doesn’t come with connectors
    Requires at least a 1000 PSI pressure washer

    7. Best Beginner’s Package: Chemical Guys TORQ Professional Foam Cannon + Variety Soaps

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This stunning foam cannon package comes with three different kinds of car soap for a variety unlike any other.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 800 PSI – 3,500 PSI
    Flow Rate: 1.4 to 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 32oz
    Review
    The Chemical Guys are a well-known brand in the realm of car care. They are definitely one of the most popular brands out there and their reputation is impeccable. Their TORQ series foam cannon is no joke and takes a worthy spot on our list of the very best foam cannons on the market today.
    Let’s discuss the foam cannon portion of this grab bag first, though. This bad boy comes with strong brass connectors on top of a high-quality plastic bottle enclosure that doesn’t wear down over time from harsh UV rays, which can cause cracks to appear on plastic products over time.
    One of the most interesting design qualities of this product, however, is its (patent pending) Threadlock System. This is, essentially, a sleeve that is designed to keep brass threads from tearing up external plastic soap bottles over a long period of time while also providing a tight, effective seal. This not only keeps degradation over a long period of use to a minimum but also serves its purpose in producing the absolute best foam production that money can buy.
    The TORQ foam cannon also comes with an air-injection system that helps to conjure up thicker suds via the Chemical Guys’ unique mechanism. This system, in fact, is able to create tons of frothy soap on as little as 800 PSI, making it an ideal choice for lower-powered pressure washer devices.
    The awe-inspiring power of this package doesn’t stop there, though. On top of the high-quality foam cannon, this kit also comes with two different car soaps to sample as well as a bottle of glossy cleaner for that extra shine.
    Verdict
    The most obvious downside we could find is the 32oz capacity, which is one ounce lower than all of the other foam cannons on this list. It’s not too big of a deal, but it’s a noticeable change. Overall, this is a killer package, and if you’ve got the cash to spare, it’s an excellent introduction to the world of foam cannons.

    Pros

    Incredible soon-to-be patented Threadlock System
    It’s a great foam cannon starter kit
    Tough, UV-resistant bottle construction
    Air-injection tech makes for a very powerful spray

    Cons

    32oz instead of 33oz
    Expensive

    8. Most Durable Pick: SudMagic Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This foam cannon has an extremely tough threaded design and hardcore stainless steel interior that will keep it usable practically forever.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3200 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 – 5.3 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    Made out of professional-grade HDPE plastic, this bottle is made tough! On top of that, the threads of the bottle itself are made out of brass, which ultimately means it won’t wear down much like plastic-threaded bottles have a tendency to do, especially when left out exposed to the sun’s harsh rays.
    When you include all of that on top of a stainless steel filter design, which keeps this foam cannon practically from ever rotting away due to rust and harsh corrosion from humid environments, this is quite literally a Frankenstein’s monster of all the foam cannons on this list.
    Verdict
    The only real problem we found with this product is that it’s not to be used with heavy-duty pressure washers that go beyond 3000 PSI. However, it won’t work well on pressure washers under 1000 PSI, so keep that in mind prior to purchasing. All in all, this is a solidly-made product that can practically last you forever due to its incredibly durable design. While it’s not the cheapest option on this list, it’s longevity potential is certainly worth the extra dollars.

    Pros

    Brass-constructed threads
    Stainless steel filter keeps rust at bay
    Tough brass connectors
    Can work with both gas as well as electric pressure washers
    Lifetime Warranty

    Cons

    A bit more expensive than other models on this list
    Needs at least a 1000 PSI pressure washer to work properly

    9. Most Accessories: Scuddles Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: This impressive package deal comes with a lot of fantastic accessories to get you cleaning your car efficiently in no time.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 34oz
    Review
    This impressive foam cannon starter kit comes with a massive amount of accessories to give you pretty much everything you need to start up high-octane weekend car wash madness. This package comes with a high-quality foam cannon complete with five different nozzles that can be utilized for many different cleaning situations. Everything from a zero degree nozzle for the toughest of dirt stains all the way to a 65-degree nozzle for lightly spraying a wide layer of detergent over your car.
    The foam cannon itself comes with all of the usual features. Durable brass fittings and a huge 34oz plastic bottle made of durable plastic. The extra-large bottle is great for those lazy day wash sessions where you just absolutely have to get every inch of your car as clean as possible.
    To even out the kit, it also comes with three microfiber towels for fast wipedowns, a fairly large foam sponge, and an attachable gun that can connect to your pressure washer hose that allows for greater control over the foam cannon itself.
    Verdict
    Based on our findings, the Scuddles foam cannon’s fittings can sometimes not tighten properly, which can cause water to spray out from the fitting section. This obviously is a fairly strong negative and affects its score. However, that being said, the company offers a full refund on the product if you aren’t satisfied at all.

    Pros

    Comes with an incredible amount of accessories
    Large 34oz bottle
    Made in the USA
    Full refund if not satisfied

    Cons

    The connective fitting could use some work

    10. Best Basic Pick: Blisstime Foam Cannon

    View on Amazon
    Why we like it: The Blisstime foam cannon is a simple, affordable piece of equipment that comes with a great microfiber pad for a deeper clean.
    Editor’s Rating:

    Specs
    Minimum/Maximum Pressure: 1000 PSI – 3000 PSI
    Flow Rate: 2.0 GPM
    Fill Capacity: 33oz
    Review
    This foam cannon is similar to many of the others on this list. It’s made from tough, durable plastics and comes complete with brass connectors. This means you’ll get a tight fit for the maximum pressure output needed to wash your vehicle with ease.
    In some cases, opaque bottle design on foam cannons can make seeing just where your soap/water levels are at a bit of a hassle at times. Even stellar products like the MATCC Adjustable Foam Cannon can suffer from this problem. This is not the case with the Blisstime foam cannon. In fact, not only does it have a wonderful see-through design, but it also comes complete with various measure marks on the bottle, which are great to have for accurate dilution of car soaps.
    To round out the package, this foam cannon comes with its own microfiber towel to touch up harder to clean spots during the cleaning process, which we found a very nice touch.
    Verdict
    We noticed that sometimes this product didn’t connect properly with the pressure washer, causing a certain amount of leaking in the process, so your mileage may vary depending on your particular pressure washer. Also, due to this connection issue, it can potentially break easily as well.
    With the price taken into consideration, this is a safe purchase for someone who is a bit hesitant to see if they even desire a foam cannon in the first place. But with the quality control issues in place, we had to place it very last on this list.

    Pros

    See-through bottle design
    Microfiber cleaner included
    Brass connectors
    Measure marks on the bottle for diluting purposes
    Inexpensive

    Cons

    Quality issues

    Complete Guide to Buying the Best Foam Cannon
    Here are some more in-depth points that expand a bit more on what we originally covered in our brief buyer’s guide earlier in the article. If you’re still a bit fuzzy on some aspects of owning a foam cannon, we think this section will help inform your purchase tremendously.
    Perks of Owning a Foam Cannon
    We’ve talked quite a bit about the kinds of foam cannons worth purchasing, but you might be asking why owning one is a good thing in the first place? Here are a few key reasons to sink your teeth into.
    They Are More Environmentally Friendly
    Foam cannons get their water source directly from a pressure washer (usually) and then mixes said water in a bottle with some form of soapy admixture. This whole process drastically cuts down on water loss, which is not only good for the environment but also good for your water bill as well! Comparatively speaking, the old-fashioned approach with soap and a rag will have you dumping out excess unused water, which is a big waste of resources in the long run.
    They Keep You From Wasting Time
    We all know the old-school way of washing a car… in fact, you probably had to do it for your folks as a kid at some point! It’s not fun and takes a lot of elbow grease to wash off all of the grease and grime that accumulates on all vehicles over time. A foam cannon can help reduce the overall time you spend on washing your car tremendously. Not only that, but it’s also way more efficient since it can hit all of those hard to reach areas that are generally difficult if not outright impossible to clean with the standard soap and a rag sort of setup.
    They Are Convenient
    When you’re finished washing your vehicle, all you have to do as far as cleanup is store your pressure washer wherever you keep it with the foam cannon already attached to it, ideally with the soapy concentrate already in the bottle ready for next time’s usage. Simple, fast, and efficient.
    They Keep You From Ruining Your Paint Job
    Foam cannons absolutely coat your entire car with gloriously thick layers of foam and fast. This is not only a great thing in terms of saving time, but it also means that you won’t mess up your car’s paint job trying to scrub and scrape off all vestiges of dirt on the car’s exterior. Foam cannons are adept at removing all forms of dirt on your vehicle’s exterior smoothly.
    They Are Multi-Purpose
    Foam cannons are best known for washing vehicles, but did you know they can be used for many other areas of life as well? You can use a foam cannon to blast your decks, porches, gutters, dirty outdoor furnishings, driveways and much more. Foam cannons can even clean RVs and boats effectively as well.
    Foam Cannons and Foam Guns: What Gives?
    This article has been specifically focused on foam cannons, but we’re also aware that sometimes people will confuse these with foam guns as well, so we’re here to set the record straight on this small bit of confusion.
    A foam cannon will usually work with a pressure washer. However, foam guns always work in tandem with a regular hose system.
    Foam cannons give a higher volume of foam than a foam gun can manage, giving them an edge when it comes to automobile cleaning equipment. Some individuals, however, either don’t want to invest in a pressure washer or are hesitant to use one thinking that it might scratch up their car’s paint job. In this case, we would definitely think a foam gun might be a better choice.
    To check out a professional auto detailer’s views on foam guns, please take a quick look at this video to understand the big deal about these gun “mini” versions of foam cannons!
    How to Use a Foam Cannon
    Foam cannons are easy as well as fun to use. Here’s a small primer on the matter.
    Unscrew the foam cannon’s container and fill it up with a decent mix of car soap and water. Be sure to check your car soap’s instructions for the proper levels of soap/water if you’re not certain.
    Give your car a decent once over with your pressure washer or garden hose to remove the most visible sources of dirt prior to the foaming process.
    Once this is finished, go ahead and attach the foam cannon to the pressure washer.
    Proceed to spray thick layers of foam all over your vehicle. Let it sit for a few minutes before proceeding to step 5.
    Rinse your vehicle off thoroughly after most of the soap suds drop from the vehicle.
    Slough off any large amounts of water off your vehicle, and allow it to dry. This keeps water spots from manifesting on the surface of your vehicle.
    For the visual learners reading this article, here’s a fantastic and in-depth video on how to best use a foam cannon.
    Helpful Foam Cannon Tips
    Be sure to let the foam sit on your car for a good couple of minutes before rinsing it off. At least ten minutes is a good metric to start with, but it really depends on just how filthy your car is.
    Make sure you use your foam cannon in a dry, sunny area, preferably on a day that isn’t very humid. A nice, moderately warm period in the sun will dry your vehicle off faster than spraying it down in a shady garage area.
    Don’t leave any foam on the vehicle whatsoever. This is terrible for paint jobs and can leave nasty spots all over your vehicle that are difficult to remove when they dry.
    Make sure the soap and water ratio is accurate depending on the brand of car soap you’re using. This is important because it makes sure that you can get the maximum dirt-cleansing power out of your blend.
    FAQ
    Are foam cannons brand-specific when it comes to the soap used in it?
    No, foam cannons are designed to be versatile with all brands of car foaming soap. Be aware that some brands of car soap may be more diluted than others, but for the most part that has nothing to do with your particular model of foam cannon.
    Do I need to invest in a professional-grade foam cannon?
    If you are a freelance detailer, then we would strongly encourage purchasing a professional-grade foam cannon for a few reasons. For one, you’re going to want to invest in a proper piece of equipment that is durable and isn’t going to wear down fast over a long period of time. If you desire such durability, look towards purchasing a foam cannon with brass fittings, as they are the standard when it comes to durability in these sorts of items. Something that has adjustable output settings for foam would also be desirable for someone looking for a professional-grade foam cannon.
    If you’re just an average Joe looking to clean your car with relative ease, however, then you certainly don’t need to worry about going full professional-grade quality with your foam cannon purchase. Most folks don’t wash their car daily, and because of that, you won’t have to worry about most well-made foam cannon products breaking down from overuse any time soon. This doesn’t mean you should skimp on overall quality, but it also means that you don’t absolutely have to buy the most expensive foam cannon model either.
    Are foam cannons worth purchasing?
    Well, we’d have to give a resounding “yes” to this one. While it’s true that a foam cannon isn’t necessary to wash one’s vehicle, the benefits of owning one outweigh the negatives of not owning one in the first place.
    Probably the biggest thing you have to bite as a consumer is that most foam cannons require you to own a pressure washer already. Pressure washers can be expensive and not everyone can afford such a piece of equipment nor do they have room for such a thing. However, we definitely think that owning both a pressure washer and a foam cannon are great additions to your car care arsenal.
    Will most foam cannons fit on my garden hose?
    It really depends on the model, but most foam cannons are not designed with garden hose use in mind. Some foam cannons have adaption kits that allow them to be retrofitted to a backyard garden hose, but it’s certainly not the standard.
    Can I use my foam cannon for other things besides washing my car?
    Absolutely! As we said earlier in this buyer’s guide, a foam cannon can be used to clean dirty driveways, patio areas, outdoor furniture, and much more. If it can be sprayed off with your basic backyard garden hose, it can also benefit from the foam cannon treatment.
    The Best Foam Cannons Make Car-Cleaning Simple
    We hope these product reviews have been helpful in determining the best choice for you and your vehicle cleaning needs. Foam cannons aren’t really a necessity when it comes to cleaning your car, but they can sure help expedite the process. After all, who wants to use up more of their precious time on the weekend dedicated to… more work? Don’t do that to yourself, especially if you’re a real car enthusiast and you want your ride to look as great as it possibly can.
    If you didn’t see a product on our list that really stood out for you, or if you’re still a bit on the fence about the exact kind of purchase you need to make, please take another look at our short buyer’s guide as well as our more in-depth extended buyer’s guide for a closer look at all the details you’ll need to make an informed purchase for a quality foam cannon. More