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You should avoid using a pressure washer on any surface or item that could be damaged by the high-pressure spray, as some materials are too delicate to withstand the force.

Key items and surfaces to avoid include:

• Electrical Components: Never pressure wash electrical systems, as water can cause short-circuits and create a safety hazard. This includes utility meters, breaker boxes, electrical outlets, generators, and HVAC or air conditioner units.

• Delicate and Fragile Materials: Fragile items can crack, shatter, or be stripped by the pressure. Avoid pressure washing windows, glass, light fixtures, shingled roofs (especially asphalt), and stucco.

• Painted, Stained, or Sealed Surfaces: Unless your goal is to strip the finish, do not pressure wash painted surfaces, stained wood (like decks), or anything with a protective seal that could be stripped away. Be especially cautious with older surfaces that may contain lead paint.

• Soft Woods and Certain Decking: Delicate surfaces like softwood, composite decking, and antique or wooden patio furniture can be etched or damaged. If you must wash wood, use a lower-powered pressure washer with a wide-angle nozzle to prevent damage.

• Living Things: Never use a pressure washer on people, pets, or plants. The force can cause serious injury and will destroy landscaping.

With a thorough cleaning, the smell of pet pee may dissipate within about 15 minutes, although in many cases, it may take several days to stop smelling after cleaning up the stain. If you leave a urine spot untreated, it may take up to five years to stop smelling on its own.

Upholstery seems easy to clean in theory, but it gets complicated when you consider how many cleaning designations there are for different kinds of fabrics. While some couches can handle a liquid cleaner, others require foam cleaners, and some should only be cleaned with dry cleaning products to prevent damage. It’s usually best to hire a professional upholstery cleaning service to ensure your couch gets appropriately cleaned and doesn’t get damaged in the process. Professional furniture cleaning is relatively affordable and easier on the wallet than replacing a damaged couch.

Patching your carpet in damaged areas or using an industry-grade cleaner on urine spots can help remove stains and scents from your carpet. If odors linger, leave baking soda on the area overnight (dry), then vacuum it up in the morning.