For most of us, it’s safe to say that hand-washing our cars at home is a tedious chore we all dread. The alternative to that is bringing your car down to the car wash, but not all of us have that kinda free time or that much cash to burn.
If you’ve just come across this article, it’s likely that neither of these two choices appeal to you and you’re eager to know a little more about the third option: the foam cannon!
A foam cannon can make a DIY car wash way less time-consuming and tiresome, which is why we’re here to help you learn all about what these gadgets are and how they work.
In this article, we’ll be talking about all the ways you and your car could benefit from one, and we’ll be reviewing a selection of products to help you choose the best foam cannon for your needs.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for the Best Foam Cannon
- MATCC Adjustable Foam Cannon
- A high-quality, versatile tool with a PSI of up to 3,000.
- DUSICHIN SFL-001 Foam Cannon
- Packs a real punch for its size!
- TriNova Foam Cannon and Gallon Car Wash Soap Kit
- User-friendly and works with pressure washers at the lower and higher end of the PSI scale alike.
- Fasmov Car Wash Pressure Washer
- Creates extra-dense foam without guzzling your soap or shampoo.
- Chemical Guys EQP_313 TORQ Professional Foam Cannon and Soap Kit
- Comes with three gallons of shampoo and delivers professional detailing results.
- SudMagic Foam Cannon Pressure Washer Gun
- This tidy little cannon will work with either a gas and electric pressure washer and gives you total control of spray pattern and density.
- VIVREAL Foam Sprayer – Adjustable Foam Washer Gun
- A solidly built foam gun designed especially for use with garden hoses.
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Best Foam Cannons — A Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
In the following section, we’ll review our top recommended products and brands for your convenience. You’ll also find a few products that can be used with a regular garden hose.
MATCC Adjustable Foam Cannon
This product by MATCC is all about versatility. You can use it with a pressure washer hose or directly on your standard garden hose if you prefer.
The canister has a 1-gallon capacity, which is enough for most mid to large-sized vehicles. You can use it with both hot and cold water.
It’s rated for a PSI of up to 3,000, which is excessive for most cars, but comes in pretty handy if you’re tackling brake dust or stubborn dirt—e.g. on your driveway. The build of the nozzle is similarly multifaceted.
You can adjust the quantity of foam cannon soap used, as well as the spray pattern, which makes the foam cannon easier to use for precision work such as applying more soap to dirtier areas.
The fan spray setting also makes for rapid application and rinsing if you’re in a hurry. It’s simple to adjust: the top knob is for foam output, and the hose itself is for spray pattern.
The fittings of this model are made of brass, as is the canister, so you can expect it to last you for a long time as long as you’re careful with it.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: 1 gallon.
- Brass canister body and head.
- Adjustable for foam pattern and quantity.
- Connector size: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Compatible with pressure washers rated for at least 2.0 GPM and 1,000 PSI.
- Maximum GPM: 5.3 GPM.
- Maximum PSI: 3,000 PSI.
- Can be used with hot and cold water.
What We Like
- Quality build.
- Adjustable.
- Suitable for both hoses and pressure washers.
- Multiple applications.
- Generous canister capacity.
- Rapid distribution of and thick suds.
- Ideal for larger vehicles.
- Brass fittings.
What We Don’t Like
- Canister can suffer dents if dropped.
- Might be a bit difficult to adjust spray patterns at times.
- Container bottle isn’t transparent, making it hard to see when you’re low on soap.
Summary
This unit can work with your hose or pressure washer to clean a range of items. Those of you who value time will appreciate how rapidly MATCC’s cannon will get your car cleaned up.
DUSICHIN Flowing Fluid Foam Cannon
This compact unit by Dusichin is deceptively powerful. The canister capacity is 33 ounces, making it quite portable. Despite this, you won’t need to keep filling it with car soap for bigger jobs. Many users found out that a small quantity of detergent produces a thick layer of foamy suds.
One of the most attractive features this foam cannon has to offer is how it distributes foam cannon soaps. Whether you adjust the foam nozzle to spray in a fan or as a stream, you’ll get a thick, sudsy coat either way. If you hate waste, you’ll appreciate this. There are also measurements on the canister side that will help you see when you’re running low on liquid.
Another advantage this foam cannon has is adaptability. The adjustable nozzle and top knob give you control over the spray pattern and foam quantity. It’s rated to work with water ranging from 60 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, which means you can turn on the heat to rinse your car off without any problems.
These same properties make it appropriate for other cleaning purposes as well. Whatever detergent you run through the canister, you’ll get a thick coating of it.
The solid construction is also a major benefit. The bottle is made of durable plastic that won’t dent or chip if you drop it, unlike other foam cannons on the market that aren’t as sturdy. All of the trimmings are made of stainless steel, brass, or the same tough plastic.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: 33 ounces.
- Connector size: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Constructed from brass, stainless steel and plastic.
- Adjustable for foam quantity and spray pattern.
- Compatible with washers rated for at least 2.0 GPM and 1,000 PSI.
- Maximum PSI: 3,000 PSI.
- Maximum GPM: 5.3 PSI.
- Can be used with water from 60 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
What We Like
- Built to last.
- Lightweight.
- Works with different water temperatures.
- Produces thicker foam.
- A little detergent goes a long way.
- Bottle won’t dent if dropped.
- Measurements on bottle are clearly visible.
What We Don’t Like
- You might experience the bottle head disconnecting over time.
- Somewhat limited instruction manual.
- Top-heavy.
Summary
A solid option for people looking for lots of foam without wasting detergent. The heavy-duty plastic canister is also great for those of you who tend to be clumsy.
TriNova Foam Cannon
The TriNova foam cannon will work with pressure washers at the lower and higher end of the PSI scale alike. It’s rated for 800 to 3,500 PSI, and this range makes it a suitable option for nearly any pressure washer or power washer. Most of the other models on the market begin at 1,000 PSI.
One of the best features of this product is the canister design. The triangular shape means you can set the canister down and it won’t tip over. You won’t have to find somewhere to lay it flat, as you would with narrower models.
On the same note, the canister is built to be crack-resistant. It has a wide bottleneck that won’t wear thin with repeated use. Plus, with steel and brass trimmings, you can look forward to a long lifespan.
The wide neck makes it easier to pour detergent and water without spills, unlike what you’d experience if working with a narrower neck.
You’ll have control over the treatment process and cleaning power with an adjustable knob and hose, and you can generate as much (or as little) foam as you need. For a fan effect, all you have to do is twist the hose.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: non-specified.
- Connector size: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Compatible with washers rated for at least 1.4 GPM and 800 PSI.
- Adjustable fan blades for foam quantity and spray pattern.
- Maximum PSI: 3,500 PSI.
- Maximum GPM: 5.3 GPM.
What We Like
- Designed to prevent bottleneck from cracking.
- Tolerates a wider range of PSI than other products.
- Won’t tip over.
- Produces dense foam.
- Easy to fill and rinse out.
- Higher-quality materials.
- Supportive customer service.
What We Don’t Like
- Heavy.
- No measurements on the canister, only lines.
Summary
This user-friendly product is less likely to end up cracking, and is effortless to use. Users with pressure washers rated at 800 PSI and above can also take advantage of it.
Fasmov Foam Cannon
This adjustable unit stands out in two respects. First, users have reported the same quality performance with all sorts of detergents and car shampoos—even dish soap. Second, this product is adept at making the most out of whatever liquid you put in it.
You’ll likely be able to clean more than one vehicle with just a single bottle-full. You should have success even with a low ratio of soap to water – the suds this gadget produces are thick and abundant. If you use a costly car shampoo, you’ll be able to go for longer between buying refills.
You can twist the nozzle for a wide spray pattern or a stream depending on where you’re aiming. It also allows you the ability to adjust the quantity of detergent you’re using. If your vehicle is washed regularly, a thin coating of foam may be enough. This is yet another feature that can help you save detergent.
An additional advantage is that Fasmov’s product can be used with pressure as low as 800 PSI. You don’t have to have a strong pressure washer to make use of it. You also have the choice of using cold water or raising the heat to up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: 33 ounces.
- Connector size: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Constructed of plastic and brass.
- Compatible with pressure washers rated for at least 2.0 GPM and 800 PSI.
- Adjustable for foam quantity and spray pattern.
- Maximum PSI: 2,321 PSI (or 160 BAR).
- Maximum temperature: 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
What We Like
- Conserves detergent.
- Wide fan for fast rinsing action.
- Works with weaker pressure washers.
- Lots of dense, snow-like foam.
- Performs well with different types of detergents.
- Intense foaming action.
What We Don’t Like
- Some users report product breakage after heavy use.
- Partial plastic construction.
Summary
Users who want to make their car shampoos and high-end detergents last long will appreciate this foam cannon. You might also want one if you’re after dense foam regardless of the soap you’re using.
Chemical Guys Professional Foam Cannon
If you’re looking for professional detailing results, this might be the perfect product for you. This unit by the Chemical Guys comes with three car shampoos included. You have the choice of a gloss-enhancing, snow foam cannon, or wash-and-gloss. Each one is pH neutral and safe for use on paint sealants and waxes.
The cannon itself will generate foam that is thick and clinging. As per the instructions, you won’t have to pre-wash stubborn dirt off your car beforehand. The dense suds should loosen any dust, pollen, or other debris stuck to your vehicle, and all the included shampoos will lessen the chance of swirl marks and streaks.
This unit really stands out when it comes to compatibility. You can use it with pressure washers ranging from 500 to 3,500 PSI. This allows it to work with nearly any commercially available pressure washers. Performance should remain consistent regardless of PSI, though, as it’s designed to create dense suds at any pressure.
People of all experience levels will be able to use this foam cannon, as the instructions are detailed enough to clarify the best process and help you to get optimal results. In the event that something happens to your canister, replacements are readily available.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: 1 gallon.
- May be available in other sizes.
- Comes with three different car shampoos.
- Connector size: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Compatible with pressure washers rated for at least 1.4 GPM and 500 PSI.
- Maximum PSI: 3,500 PSI.
- Maximum GPM: 5.3 GPM.
- Adjustable for foam quantity and spray pattern.
- Constructed of brass, stainless steel and plastic.
- Recommended for use with room-temperature water.
What We Like
- Large, easy-to-grip bottle.
- Produces thick, clinging suds.
- Good quality car shampoos included.
- Can work with almost any pressure washer.
- Metal parts are rust-resistant.
- Detailed instructions for best results.
- Reputable manufacturer.
- Replacement bottles are available for purchase.
What We Don’t Like
- Some users report bottleneck breaking after repeated use.
Summary
If you’re looking for a professional-looking car-wash finish at home, and specifically something that works with pressure washers ranging from 500 to 3,500, this kit is definitely worthy of your consideration.
SudMagic Foam Cannon
This product is designed to suit nearly any pressure washer below 5.3 GPM or 3,200 PSI. It comes with a 0.05-inch adapter and a built-in 0.04-inch orifice, and you can use both gas and electric pressure washers.
As for foam production, you should get dense, clinging suds. The foam thickness allows for a touchless car wash, as per the instruction manual, and you shouldn’t have to wipe off debris buildup beforehand. You can adjust the height of the foam, which is practical for taller vehicles (e.g. RVs).
You’ll also be able to control the quantity of suds. A great feature with this foam cannon is that even on a lower setting, you’ll still get a decent amount of foam.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Canister capacity: non-specified.
- Compatible with washers that do not exceed 3,200 PSI and 5.3 GPM.
- Connector: 1-quarter inch diameter.
- Includes 0.05-inch adapter.
- Constructed of brass, stainless steel and plastic.
- Adjustable for foam quantity and height of spray.
What We Like
- Solidly-constructed bottle.
- Good customer support.
- Adapters for gas and electric washers.
- Thick foam at all settings.
- Clear instructions.
- Rust-resistant build.
- Provides a touchless wash.
What We Don’t Like
- You might find that you’ll run out of soap relatively quickly.
- Measurements on the bottle are marked in milliliters rather than ounces.
Summary
This product is built for optimal performance with both gas and electric pressure washers.
Eager to see it for yourself and learn more about it? Check it out by clicking the link below.
VIVREAL Foam Gun
As you’ve probably noticed already, we’ve talked about a few foam cannons that can be used with hoses as well as pressurized washers. This product is actually a foam gun exclusively designed for use with garden hoses. This makes it ideal if you don’t own or want to buy a pressure washer to get your vehicle spotless.
This product fits both standard and smaller-sized garden hoses. If your hose falls in the latter category, an adapter is included in the box, which should fit in most cases.
You’ll also receive a chenille wash mitt as part of your purchase. The mitt is scratch-free and made of microfibers to avoid the swirls and streaks often caused by sponges.
With eight different spray patterns to choose from, you’ll find one that works best for your vehicle, depending on what you’re working with (and on).
You can apply detergent and rinse it off in a fan, jet, mist or more, however you like. You’ll get a decent, thick coating of detergent considering you’ll be using a hose instead of a pressure washer.
This unit will also suit users looking for a multipurpose tool. With all the spray patterns you can choose, you can use it to tackle all sorts of jobs: giving your pets a good wash, cleaning your windows, etc.
You’ll also love that the pistol grip is padded and comfortable to hold. If you’re going to be cleaning a large surface (such as your truck or RV), you can lock the grip.
Manufacturer’s Specs and Features
- Foam gun with a 3.5-ounce soap dispenser.
- Suitable for two types of standard garden hoses.
- Adjustment knob for detergent quantity.
- Eight spray patterns.
- Includes chenille wash mitt.
- Lockable pistol grip.
What We Like
- Solid build.
- Multiple applications.
- Fits with almost any garden hose.
- Comes with a wash mitt for your car.
- Easy to use.
- Comfortable grip.
- Multiple spray patterns.
What We Don’t Like
- You might face some difficulty turning the knob the first few uses, but it should become second nature to you in time.
Summary
This multifaceted foam gun is a great option for cleaning more than just your vehicle. The fact that it also comes with a large mitt is a nice touch on the part of the manufacturer as well.
What Is a Foam Cannon? And How Does It Work?
In order to use a foaming cannon, you’ll need to have a pressure washer, as high pressure is the driving force behind the whole system.
Despite the name “cannon,” these devices are not as imposing as you’d expect. In fact, most resemble small to mid-sized canisters with a spray nozzle head. This modified nozzle has a port at the rear, which is designed to connect to your pressure washer. It’s important to note that these ports are not universal and will vary in size depending on the manufacturer, though.
The front of the nozzle might either be an adjustable spray or non-adjustable. If you buy one with the option to adjust it, you can control how the liquid emerges (a straight water stream versus a wider spray, for example). With that being said, this feature will vary according to the specific brand.
The Benefits of Using a Foam Cannon
There are both short-term and long-term benefits to buying and using foam cannons or foam guns:
More Convenient
First and foremost, foam canons are convenient. For starters, you can make use of one from the comfort of your own home, and it’s a huge time saver for those of you with large vehicles (e.g. trucks or RVs) who may otherwise find hand-washing a daunting chore.
Next, you won’t have to expend half as much effort with a foam wash as you would with hand-washing. The days of scrubbing dead bugs off your windshield (literally!) will be a thing of the past.
Getting your entire vehicle soaped up won’t require anymore of that bending, stretching or refilling bucket upon bucket that you grew used to throughout the years. Instead, you can preserve your energy for other tasks such as waxing your car afterwards, if you’re so inclined.
Reduce the Risk of Rust
No automobile is immune to rust. You don’t need to have a huge dent on your car to end up with unsightly orange patches, either. Atmospheric corrosion is the result of pollutants in the air. This is common in well-trafficked areas, such as city centers and highways.
Your car is exposed to these harmful substances on a daily basis. If you allow this dust and grime to build up, you’re increasing the risk of rust.
All the other road debris your automobile collects isn’t exactly good for it either. Take bird poop, for example. The feces produce ammonia and sulfur as they begin to decay. Needless to say, this can be harmful to your paint job.
Don’t forget insect corpses, pollen residue, or saltwater spray—you definitely don’t want these to accumulate either!
Thoroughly washing your vehicle on a regular basis will ensure none of these rust-promoting compounds have a chance to take hold.
Identify Problems Before They Escalate
It’s always easier to inspect a clean item rather than a dirty one, and your vehicle is no different. For example, dust and other debris can hide other problems your vehicle has, such as scratched paint or chipped glass.
By default, cleaning your car means that you’re paying attention to it in detail, and you’ll have the opportunity to spot issues as soon as they crop up – not after they become major problems.
Avoid Repair Costs
Even a small scratch on your car can oxidize if the bare metal is exposed. Tiny chips or cracks in your glass can spread if not repaired.
Also, why waste money on rust removers, rust converters or rust prevention sprays if you don’t have to? Take care of these issues before they become problems – be proactive about all of this, not reactive.
Worst case scenario, leaving metal to corrode could lead to costly replacements – terrible if you’re trying to stay within a certain budget.
Extend Vehicle Lifespan
Good maintenance practices aren’t just for internal mechanisms. In fact, taking good care of your vehicle’s exterior is just as essential as making sure all its moving parts are a-okay.
Newer vehicles are better protected than ever against threats like corrosion. Additives in automotive paint improve temperature and weather resistance, among other things.
Those of you with older vehicles may be at a disadvantage, since these innovations likely didn’t exist at the time your car was built.
The point is that you have to be vigilant with maintenance to get as many years out of your investment as possible. This is true no matter the age of your car or truck. Cleaning off harmful compounds on a regular basis is an essential part of this process.
Boost Resale Value
Taking care of your vehicle’s exterior will increase its value if you choose to sell it down the line. Remember that meticulous cleaning will lower the risk of corrosion, and visible rust of any sort will likely bring down the price of your automobile.
If you’re selling your car, using your own foam cannon is a fast way to prepare it for potential buyers. You won’t have to leave everything you’re doing and rush to the car wash just to get it ready. Instead, you can do a good job at getting your vehicle looking spotless right at home.
Save Car Wash Money
If hand-washing is a pain for you, then you probably choose to go to the car wash instead. However, that’s going to be a pain as well – only this time, it’s a pain for your pocket.
You might be surprised at how quickly expenses can add up when you take your ride to the car wash on a regular basis. Investing in a top notch foam cannon (one that’s affordable, too) can save you on a good amount of money with time.
Improved Cleaning
Machines don’t always do a more accurate job than humans – but in the case of using a foam cannon, it probably does.
To start with, a thick uniform coating of soap will do a better job at breaking down dirt. After all, you can’t guarantee comprehensive soap coverage all on your own.
The same applies to when you’re rinsing the detergent off: unattractive and potentially harmful swirls and streaks can appear if you’re not very careful as you wash. On the other hand, a foam cannon simplifies the process for you so you can focus on other important stuff.
Conserve Resources
It can take quite a few buckets of wash soap and water to clean your vehicle. Owners of trucks, SUVs or long antique cars already know this, and can tell you all about the hardship they go through if you ask.
The solution? Buying a foam cannon and some of the best foam cannon soap can help you save on water and costly car shampoos. It won’t solve all your problems, but it’s an excellent first step in the right direction!
How to Choose the Best Foam Cannon for You and Your Vehicle
If you’re sold on the idea of buying a foam cannon for all your car washing needs, let’s go over a few important considerations to keep in mind while you shop.
Alternate Uses
Will you be able to use the foam cannon for anything else? For example, spraying insecticides or pesticides? This might be a priority for some of you if you’re not just getting this to use on your vehicle.
Foam Generation
Usually, the denser and clingier the foam, the better. Watery foam or a thin layer won’t stick to your vehicle as long, meaning it won’t have the chance to break down dirt.
You should also take into account how the device uses detergent. If you’re going to have to refill it often, you might end up wasting more soap solution than you would by doing a hand wash.
Compatible Connectors
Don’t forget that these units aren’t made with universal brass connectors. Instead, you have to check that it will fit with your pressure washer. Most foam cannons come with more than one size of connector for this very reason.
Ratio Adjustability
As we mentioned earlier, some of these products are adjustable whereas others are static. Depending on the manufacturer, you can control aspects like water flow or spray form.
If flexibility is important for you, make sure that the unit you’re considering is adjustable before you buy it.
Volume Capacity
Canister capacity is an individual preference. For example, people with enormous RVs or trailers will want a model with a large canister, and so will users that have multiple automobiles to wash.
On the other hand, if you have just one small vehicle you’ll be washing from time to time, you may not need a big canister. You can also broaden your options to include units with smaller canisters, too.
Pressure Output
Make sure you know how much PSI the product you’re considering buying is rated for. It should be in line with what your pressure washer puts out.
It’s important that you get this part right, as you don’t want to risk blowing your new foam cannon apart if your washer generates more water pressure than it can handle!
Water Output
The greater the gallons per minute (GPM), the more rapidly it will get the job done. As we talked about earlier, this measures the flow of water through the device.
Product Durability
High-quality materials are crucial for these gadgets. If any part is shoddily built, it can (and eventually will) break apart easily under pressure.
Not only is this a complete waste of money when you’ll be shopping for a replacement soon enough, but it can also cause serious injuries.
Ease of Use
Even the simplest devices can be tough to use if the design is flawed. The best foam cannons will almost always be the easiest ones to use.
Look for features that make it user-friendly. For instance, a canister with measurements on it that’s easy to refill and wash out is a great start.
What’s Included
Extra equipment included in the box is always a plus – unless you’re paying extra money for something you won’t really need, of course.
Does it come with special adapters or bottles of detergent? These are not only handy, but can save you the hassle of having to buy them separately and worry about compatibility.
Conclusion
As you’re probably well aware by now, keeping a clean car isn’t just about aesthetics. Sure, driving in a shiny vehicle is awesome and all, but that isn’t all there is to it. Regular cleaning will lower the risk of corrosion, extend your vehicle’s lifespan, and improve resale value should you decide to place it on the market.
We hope you’ve found the best foam cannon to suit your needs from our list of recommendations! Buying one of these cleaner tools is a very convenient and enjoyable way to keep on top and simplify regular car washes.
