Yes for the machine’s own detergent system — household cleaners can foam excessively, damage seals and are not formulated for the dilution these machines use.
Purpose-made products are designed to be drawn through a detergent feed at a set dilution and to work at low pressure with dwell time, which is where they earn their place: a stone and facade cleaner left for its stated period does what no nozzle can.
Two precautions. Never let a detergent dry on a hot surface in direct sun, and keep everything away from planting beds, ponds and the drains that feed them.
For vehicles, a dedicated snow foam is the one worth buying.
Last reviewed 2026-08-15