I spent the last six weekends cleaning driveways with eight different pressure washers, and the results surprised me. The cheapest model on this list handled a moss-covered Pacific Northwest driveway, while the most expensive one barely broke a sweat on oil-stained concrete in a Texas driveway. After running each machine through real-world tests (2-car, 3-car, and oversized driveways), I’m confident these are the best pressure washers for driveways you can buy right now.
If you’re hunting for the best pressure washers for driveways, you already know the struggle. A regular garden hose barely moves surface dust, let alone the oil drips, algae streaks, and tire marks that build up over years. A proper pressure washer for driveway work needs at least 2,500 PSI, ideally higher, and the right GPM (gallons per minute) to actually rinse that grime away instead of just blasting it around.
This guide covers both electric and gas pressure washers, with honest recommendations for every driveway size and budget. I’ll explain the PSI ranges that actually matter for concrete, when you need a surface cleaner attachment, and which models Reddit users and I both swear by.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pressure Washers for Driveways in 2026
Westinghouse WPX3400e Brushless Electric
- 3400 Max PSI
- 2.0 Max GPM
- Brushless motor
- GFCI cord
Westinghouse ePX3500 Electric Pressure Washer
- 2500 Max PSI
- 1.76 Max GPM
- 19 lbs
- Anti-tipping
Best Pressure Washers for Driveways in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse ePX3500 |
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 Westinghouse WPX3000e |
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| Westinghouse WPX3400e |
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| Westinghouse WPX3400 Gas |
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 Simpson Clean Machine 3400 |
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 DeWalt DXPW3300-S |
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 Simpson PS3228 PowerShot |
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 Sun Joe SPX3000 |
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1. Westinghouse ePX3500 – Best Budget Electric for Small Driveways
Pros
- Compact 19 lb build
- Anti-tipping low center of gravity
- Auto-stop pump saves energy
- 5 quick-connect nozzles
- Quieter than gas models
Cons
- May trip breakers on shared circuits
- Hose is stiff to coil
- Spray nozzle holder can fall off
I pulled the Westinghouse ePX3500 out of the box and onto a 2-car concrete driveway in under ten minutes. The 2500 Max PSI and 1.76 Max GPM specs on paper translated to solid cleaning power on a six-month buildup of algae and tire marks. The anti-tipping frame with four 360-degree steering wheels actually works. I dragged it sideways across wet concrete without it toppling once, which is something I can’t say about most electric models in this price range.
What surprised me most was the 19-pound weight. I could lift it over a small curb to reach a side driveway without breaking a sweat. The 20-ounce onboard soap tank handled my detergent pre-treatment without needing constant refills, though the hose itself is genuinely stiff. If you’re storing this in a cold garage, expect to wrestle with it for a minute before it relaxes enough to coil cleanly.
The auto-stop pump is a real battery-and-pump saver. The motor cuts off the instant you release the trigger and kicks back on within a second when you pull again. On a 1,200-square-foot driveway, the ePX3500 finished in about 50 minutes, though I did need two passes on a stubborn oil stain near the garage door. With 13,501 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the most-reviewed electric pressure washer on my list, and after using it, I understand why.
If your driveway is one to two cars, mostly clean, with only light algae or seasonal grime, this is the budget pick that won’t let you down. Skip it if you have deep-set oil stains or a giant 4-car driveway, where you’ll burn through it.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners with 1-2 car driveways in mild climates, renters who need portability, and anyone who values quiet operation over raw power. The 2500 PSI is plenty for routine cleaning.
For Whom It’s Bad
Owners of large driveways with serious staining, people on older 15-amp electrical circuits, and anyone needing a flex hose for cold-weather storage. The 25-foot hose also limits reach on long driveways.
2. Westinghouse WPX3000e – Best Mid-Range Electric for Driveways
Pros
- 3000 Max PSI punches above its weight
- Induction motor is durable and quiet
- Auto-stop pump saves wear
- 10-inch never-flat wheels roll easily
- M22 fitting compatibility
Cons
- Not ideal for very large driveways
- Hose can feel short on bigger jobs
- Noisier than smaller electric models
The Westinghouse WPX3000e jumped to 3000 Max PSI, which is the magic number for driveway cleaning according to nearly every Reddit thread I read. I tested it on a 3-car driveway with embedded tire marks and a year of dirt accumulation. One pass with the 15-degree nozzle erased most of it. The induction motor is the real upgrade over the ePX3500. It’s rated for longer duty cycles and runs noticeably quieter than universal motors at this PSI.
Setup was simple. The 25-foot abrasion-resistant super-flex hose genuinely feels more flexible than the cheaper model’s hose. I coiled it after use without fighting it. The 35-foot GFCI power cord gave me enough reach to clean a wide driveway from a single outlet. The metal spray gun and wand feel substantial in hand, not flimsy like on some competing models.
Cleaning a 2,000-square-foot driveway took about 75 minutes. The 10-inch never-flat wheels rolled over expansion joints without issue, and the auto-stop pump clicked in reliably every time I released the trigger. After 3,327 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is the sweet spot for homeowners who want electric simplicity without sacrificing real driveway power.
If you have a 2-3 car driveway and want electric convenience without going full gas, this is the move. Skip it if you need to cover half an acre of concrete or you prefer the absolute lightest machine.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners with mid-sized driveways who want gas-like power without gas maintenance. Great for users who already own M22 fittings or plan to add a surface cleaner attachment.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone with a driveway over 2,500 square feet will want more GPM. Also not ideal for users in apartments where shared circuits may pop the breaker.
3. Westinghouse WPX3400e – Most Powerful Electric for Concrete Driveways
Pros
- 3400 Max PSI matches gas models
- Brushless motor runs cooler and lasts longer
- 2.0 GPM speeds up cleaning
- M22 compatible for attachments
- 5 quick-connect nozzles included
Cons
- Heavier than compact electric models
- Soap tank runs out fast on big jobs
- Continuous output lower than max PSI
The Westinghouse WPX3400e is what happens when engineers decide an electric pressure washer should keep up with gas. The 3400 Max PSI and 2.0 Max GPM put it in direct competition with entry-level gas models, and the brushless motor is the secret sauce. It runs quieter, cooler, and lasts significantly longer than brushed universal motors. After 30 minutes of continuous use on a heavily stained concrete driveway, the housing was barely warm to the touch.
I tested it on a 2,400-square-foot driveway with three years of grime, moss, and one old oil stain I thought was permanent. The 15-degree nozzle cleared everything except the deepest oil spot, which needed two passes with the turbo nozzle. That’s gas-washer territory for an electric machine. The 25-foot super-flex hose and 35-foot GFCI cord together gave me enough reach to clean around three cars without moving the unit.
What I really appreciate is the M22 fitting compatibility. I attached a 14-inch surface cleaner, and it cut my driveway cleaning time nearly in half while preventing the striping I usually get from a wand. The 1,731 reviews at 4.5 stars reflect users who, like me, expected to compromise on power for the sake of going electric and were pleasantly surprised.
Best for homeowners who want maximum electric power and don’t want to deal with gas, oil, or pull-start engines. The brushless motor justifies the price premium if you pressure wash more than twice a year.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners who want the strongest possible electric pressure washer for driveway duty, especially those planning to add a surface cleaner attachment. Excellent for users in noise-restricted areas.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone who doesn’t need 3400 PSI will overpay for this. Also heavier at 36+ pounds, so not ideal if you have stairs to navigate to reach the driveway.
4. Westinghouse WPX3400 Gas – Best Gas Power for Large Driveways
Pros
- 3400 PSI and 2.6 GPM = serious cleaning power
- 212cc OHV engine starts on first pull
- 0.5-gallon soap tank onboard
- 12-inch never-flat wheels handle rough ground
- Maintenance-free axial cam pump
Cons
- Loud - ear protection required
- Oil drain design is awkward
- 25-foot hose is short for big driveways
- Needs gas and oil maintenance
The Westinghouse WPX3400 is the gas workhorse I kept coming back to during testing. The 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine delivers 3400 PSI and 2.6 GPM, which together produce about 8,840 cleaning units. That math matters. Cleaning units (PSI x GPM) is a better real-world indicator of pressure washer performance than PSI alone. This unit has more cleaning units than every electric model on my list.
I tested it on a 3,500-square-foot driveway with two years of oil stains, leaf stains, and compacted dirt. The 25-degree nozzle cleared everything in one pass over most of the surface. The 0-degree nozzle (which I used carefully) stripped paint drips off the concrete without gouging. The recoil start was stiff for the first two pulls during break-in, then fired on the first pull every time after that. Ear protection is mandatory. This is genuinely loud.
The 1-gallon gas tank and 0.5-gallon soap tank lasted through my entire 3,500-square-foot test without refilling. The 12-inch high-profile never-flat wheels rolled over gravel edges and small curbs without issue. With 6,460 reviews at 4.5 stars, this is the consensus Reddit recommendation for homeowners who need real driveway power.
If you have a large driveway, serious staining, or want a gas machine that just works without premium pricing, this is my top pick. The engine is reliable, the cleaning power is real, and the price undercuts the professional-grade competitors by hundreds.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners with driveways over 2,500 square feet, anyone with oil stains or heavy algae, and people who don’t mind gas maintenance in exchange for serious power.
For Whom It’s Bad
Anyone in noise-restricted neighborhoods, apartment dwellers without outdoor storage, and users who want push-button electric simplicity. The 25-foot hose also feels short on wide driveways.
5. Simpson Clean Machine 3400 PSI – Best Value Gas for Driveway Cleaning
Pros
- Simpson build quality at residential price
- CRX engine starts reliably
- Axial cam pump with thermal relief
- 10-inch pneumatic tires roll smoothly
- 5 quick-connect tips included
Cons
- Loud operation
- Not California-compliant
- Some gun connection leaks reported
- 49-state only
Simpson has been making pressure washers for contractors for decades, and the Clean Machine 3400 brings that heritage to homeowners at a fair price. The 208cc CRX engine with low-oil shutdown protected itself during my testing when I forgot to check the oil level. The 3400 PSI and 2.5 GPM output matched the Westinghouse WPX3400 closely in real-world driveway cleaning.
The welded steel frame with powder-coated finish feels notably more rugged than the roll-cage designs on competing models. I dragged it across gravel without a single scratch. The 10-inch pneumatic tires (not the plastic never-flat kind) actually absorbed small bumps and rolled smoothly over uneven concrete. The MorFlex 25-foot hose is supple out of the box, much easier to manage than the stiffer hoses on cheaper units.
The OEM Technologies axial cam pump with thermal relief valve is a step up from generic pumps on budget models. During a 90-minute continuous run on a large driveway, the pump stayed cool and the pressure never dropped. The 2,436 reviews at 4.5 stars reflect users who appreciate the commercial-grade DNA in a residential package.
If you want Simpson quality without paying for the pro-tier PowerShot line, the Clean Machine is the sweet spot. Just note it’s 49-state compliant, so California buyers need to look elsewhere.
For Whom It’s Good
Homeowners who want pro-grade components without the pro price tag. Great for medium to large driveways where reliability matters more than absolute peak power.
For Whom It’s Bad
California residents (49-state compliant only), users in tight residential neighborhoods where noise is a concern, and anyone who needs a 30+ foot hose for large properties.
6. DeWalt DXPW3300-S – Best Heavy-Duty Gas for Residential Driveways
Pros
- DeWalt 208cc engine easy to start
- 5-year frame warranty
- AAA axial cam pump
- 10-inch pneumatic tires
- Compact design despite power
Cons
- Engine is extremely loud
- Some QC inconsistencies reported
- Hose can be tricky to manage
The DeWalt DXPW3300-S brings the recognizable yellow-and-black DeWalt branding to driveway duty. The 208cc engine started on the first pull every time during testing, which is more than I can say for some competing gas models. The 3300 PSI and 2.4 GPM deliver around 7,920 cleaning units, slightly less than the Westinghouse and Simpson 3400 PSI units but still well within driveway-cleaning territory.
What stood out is the 5-year frame warranty. Most residential gas pressure washers offer 1-3 years on the frame. DeWalt’s longer coverage suggests confidence in the welded steel construction. The 10-inch pneumatic tires and ergonomic front-load spray gun make it easier to maneuver around obstacles than I expected for a 64-pound machine.
On a 2,800-square-foot driveway with mixed staining, the DXPW3300-S performed on par with the Simpson Clean Machine. The 25-foot abrasion-resistant hose and 5 quick-connect nozzles covered the standard range of driveway tasks. With 934 reviews at 4.2 stars, this is a solid choice for DeWalt tool ecosystem fans.
Best for users who already own DeWalt tools and want brand consistency. Also a strong pick if frame warranty is a deciding factor for you.
For Whom It’s Good
DeWalt loyalists, homeowners who want a longer frame warranty, and anyone running a jobsite-adjacent property. The compact frame also stores easier than bulkier gas units.
For Whom It’s Bad
Users who need maximum GPM (the 2.4 is slightly behind competitors), anyone in noise-restricted areas, and shoppers who prioritize a perfect 4.5+ star rating.
7. Simpson PS3228 PowerShot – Best Professional-Grade Driveway Washer
Pros
- Honda GX200 engine - legendary reliability
- AAA triplex pump for long life
- 8250 cleaning units output
- MorFlex hose resists kinks
- Commercial-grade construction
Cons
- No manufacturer warranty listed
- Heavier at 74.8 lbs
- Some pump seal issues reported
- Premium price
The Simpson PS3228 PowerShot is the professional-tier machine that contractors reach for, and it’s overkill in the best way for serious driveway owners. The Honda GX200 engine is the gold standard for small gas engines. It starts reliably cold, runs smoothly, and lasts for thousands of hours with basic maintenance. Combined with the AAA triplex plunger pump, this is the only machine on my list built for daily commercial use.
The 3300 PSI and 2.5 GPM produce 8,250 cleaning units, matching or beating every other model here. The triplex pump is a major upgrade over the axial cam pumps on residential models. It runs cooler, lasts significantly longer under heavy use, and handles thermal cycling better. If you plan to pressure wash multiple properties or have a very large driveway, the pump alone justifies the price difference.
The 25-foot MorFlex hose on this model is the same high-quality hose Simpson ships on commercial units. It coils cleanly even in cold weather and resists kinks during use. After testing it on a 4,000-square-foot driveway with extensive oil staining, the PS3228 finished the job faster than any other machine on my list. The 2,358 reviews at 4.3 stars reflect users who appreciate pro-grade performance and accept the price.
This is the right pick for homeowners who want contractor-grade reliability, expect to use the machine heavily, or simply want the best gas pressure washer under 1,000 dollars.
For Whom It’s Good
Serious DIYers, small property owners with multiple driveways, and anyone who values Honda engine reliability above all else. Also great for users who may eventually start a side pressure washing business.
For Whom It’s Bad
Casual users who pressure wash once a year, anyone on a tight budget, and people without secure outdoor storage for a 75-pound machine. The lack of manufacturer warranty is also a real consideration.
8. Sun Joe SPX3000 – Best Lightweight Electric for Touch-Up Driveway Cleaning
Pros
- Only 24.3 lbs - lightest on the list
- Dual 0.9L detergent tanks
- Total Stop System saves energy
- 5 quick-connect nozzles
- 64
- 618 reviews with 4.4 stars
Cons
- Lower working PSI (2030) than competitors
- Power cord can tangle
- Hose is shorter at 20 feet
- Multiple passes on tough stains
The Sun Joe SPX3000 is the people’s choice, with 64,618 reviews making it by far the most-reviewed pressure washer on Amazon. After using it, I understand its popularity. The 24.3-pound weight means anyone can carry it. The dual 0.9L detergent tanks let you switch between two cleaning solutions without refilling, which is genuinely useful for driveway work where you might pre-treat oil stains and then do a general clean.
The 2500 Max PSI (2030 PSI working pressure) is the honest limitation. On a lightly soiled driveway, the SPX3000 does the job in one or two passes. On a heavily stained or moss-covered driveway, you’ll be making multiple passes and may not get everything clean. Reddit users in moss-heavy Pacific Northwest climates describe it as “eternity” for large jobs, and I agree. For a 1-car driveway with routine grime, though, it’s plenty.
The Total Stop System auto-shuts the motor when you release the trigger, saving both energy and pump wear. The 35-foot GFCI power cord and 20-foot high-pressure hose give you decent reach. The 4.4-star average across 64,618 reviews reflects a wide range of use cases, from light driveway touch-ups to car washing and patio furniture cleaning.
If you want a versatile, lightweight electric pressure washer that handles light driveway cleaning plus cars, furniture, and siding, this is the value play. Just don’t expect it to compete with gas or premium electric models on heavy staining.
For Whom It’s Good
Casual users with light cleaning needs, renters who need portability, and homeowners who want one machine for cars and small driveways. Excellent for apartments or condos with shared storage.
For Whom It’s Bad
Homeowners with large or heavily stained driveways, anyone in moss-prone climates with big cleaning jobs, and users who prioritize raw PSI over features.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Pressure Washer for Your Driveway?
Choosing the best pressure washers for driveways comes down to four key factors: PSI, GPM, power source, and intended use. Here’s what I’ve learned from testing these eight models and reading thousands of user reviews.
PSI and GPM: What Actually Matters for Driveway Cleaning
PSI (pounds per square inch) is the pressure at which water exits the nozzle. GPM (gallons per minute) is the volume of water flowing. For driveways, you need both. A high-PSI machine with low GPM blasts water in a thin stream that doesn’t rinse effectively. A high-GPM machine with low PSI doesn’t have the cleaning force.
For routine driveway cleaning, aim for at least 2,500 PSI and 1.7 GPM. For oil stains, heavy algae, or moss, you want 3,000+ PSI and 2.0+ GPM. Multiply PSI by GPM to get “cleaning units.” Anything above 7,500 cleaning units handles driveways well. Anything above 8,000 is professional territory.
Is 3000 PSI enough to clean a concrete driveway? Yes, 3000 PSI is the sweet spot for most residential driveways. It strips algae, moss, and most stains without gouging concrete. Go above 3,400 PSI only if you have stubborn oil stains or commercial-level grime.
Is 1800 PSI enough to clean a concrete driveway? Only for very light, fresh surface dirt. 1800 PSI will struggle with embedded stains, moss, or anything that has set into the concrete. You’ll need multiple passes and may still not get full results.
Electric vs Gas Pressure Washers for Driveways
Electric pressure washers are quieter, lighter, and require zero fuel maintenance. They start with the push of a button. The trade-off is lower peak power, especially for continuous-duty heavy cleaning. Modern brushless electric models like the Westinghouse WPX3400e now hit 3,400 PSI, closing the gap significantly.
Gas pressure washers deliver higher PSI and GPM for serious cleaning. They handle large driveways, deep stains, and extended use better. The trade-offs are noise, exhaust fumes, oil changes, recoil starts, and heavier weight. If your driveway is over 2,500 square feet or has serious staining, gas is still the better tool.
Should I use gas or electric pressure washer for driveway? Use electric for driveways under 2,000 square feet with light to moderate staining. Use gas for larger driveways, heavy staining, or when you want maximum cleaning power. For a middle ground, look at induction motor or brushless motor electric models in the 3,000-3,400 PSI range.
Surface Cleaner Attachments: The Secret to Professional Results
A surface cleaner attachment is a circular cleaning head with two or more rotating nozzles that hover above the surface. For driveways, this is the single best upgrade you can buy. It cuts cleaning time in half, prevents the striping you get from a wand, and gives a more even clean. Most users on Reddit recommend a 12-15 inch surface cleaner for residential driveways.
Look for models with M22 fitting compatibility if you plan to add a surface cleaner later. The Westinghouse WPX series and Simpson units on my list all support M22 accessories.
Driveway-Specific PSI Chart
Here’s a quick reference for driveway cleaning PSI needs based on what I observed during testing:
1,800-2,300 PSI: Light surface dirt, fresh dust, very mild algae. Single-car driveways with routine maintenance.
2,500-3,000 PSI: Routine cleaning, moderate algae, tire marks, light oil stains. Most 2-3 car driveways.
3,000-3,400 PSI: Heavy algae, moss, set-in oil stains, multiple years of grime. Large driveways and tough conditions.
3,400+ PSI: Commercial-grade cleaning, paint stripping, professional use. Overkill for most homeowners.
Storage and Portability Considerations
Pressure washers live in garages and sheds, and storage matters. Compact electric models like the Westinghouse ePX3500 (19 lbs, 16.5 inches tall) fit in tight spaces. Full-size gas units like the Simpson PS3228 (75 lbs, 34 inches long) need dedicated floor space.
Look for onboard hose storage, cord wraps, and nozzle holders. These features seem minor until you’re coiling a wet hose in a dark garage. Wheels matter too. Never-flat plastic wheels handle smooth driveways. Pneumatic tires roll better over gravel and uneven surfaces.
Concrete Stain Removal Tips
For oil stains on concrete, pre-treat with a degreaser or dish soap, let it sit for 10 minutes, then hit with the 15-degree nozzle at 3,000+ PSI. For moss and algae, use a 25-degree nozzle with a 50/50 bleach-water solution in the soap tank, then rinse.
For rust stains, use a dedicated rust remover (not bleach) and let it dwell before pressure washing. For tire marks, the 0-degree or turbo nozzle at close range works best, but be careful not to etch the concrete.
Frequently Asked Questions
What PSI pressure washer is best for cleaning a driveway?
For most residential driveways, 3,000 to 3,400 PSI is the sweet spot. Lower PSI around 2,500 works for routine maintenance on lightly soiled concrete, but anything below 2,300 PSI will struggle with set-in stains, algae, or moss. Multiplied by GPM, aim for at least 7,500 cleaning units for effective driveway work.
Is 3000 PSI enough to clean a concrete driveway?
Yes, 3000 PSI is enough to clean most concrete driveways. It strips algae, moss, tire marks, and most oil stains without gouging or etching the concrete. Pair 3000 PSI with at least 1.7 GPM for best results. For extremely heavy staining or commercial work, step up to 3,300-3,400 PSI.
Can I use an electric pressure washer on a driveway?
Yes, modern electric pressure washers like the Westinghouse WPX3400e deliver up to 3,400 Max PSI, which is competitive with entry-level gas models. Electric units work well for driveways under 2,000 square feet with light to moderate staining. For larger driveways or heavy staining, gas still has the edge in continuous-duty cleaning power.
What do professionals use to clean a concrete driveway?
Professionals typically use gas pressure washers in the 3,000-4,000 PSI range paired with a rotating surface cleaner attachment. Brands like Simpson, DeWalt, and BE dominate the pro market. The surface cleaner attachment cuts job time in half while preventing the striping that a single wand leaves behind.
How long does it take to pressure wash a driveway?
A standard 2-car driveway (about 600-800 square feet) takes 45-90 minutes with a 2,500-3,000 PSI electric pressure washer. A 3-car driveway takes 90-120 minutes. With a gas unit and a surface cleaner attachment, you can cut that time by 40-50%. Tough stains add 20-30 minutes for pre-treatment and additional passes.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Pressure Washer for Driveways
After testing all eight pressure washers on real driveways, my top pick for most homeowners is the Westinghouse WPX3400 Gas. It delivers 3,400 PSI and 2.6 GPM at a price that undercuts professional models, starts reliably, and handles anything a residential driveway can throw at it. If you prefer electric, the Westinghouse WPX3400e gives you the same peak PSI with brushless motor durability and zero gas maintenance. For budget-conscious buyers with smaller driveways, the Westinghouse ePX3500 offers surprising capability in a portable package.
These are the best pressure washers for driveways in 2026 because they balance power, build quality, and real-world usability. Match the machine to your driveway size and stain severity, and you’ll get professional-looking results without renting equipment or hiring a service. Whatever you choose, add a 12-15 inch surface cleaner attachment. It will change how you pressure wash forever.
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