Ryobi Foam Blaster Detergent Refill

The Ryobi Foam Blaster Detergent Refill, model RY31D55, is designed to be a versatile cleaning solution for a variety of surfaces. I had the opportunity to put this detergent to the test with my Ryobi Foam Blaster and pressure washer, tackling everything from car exteriors to house siding and outdoor decks. Here’s a detailed look at my experience with this product.

Performance on Different Surfaces

The primary selling point of this detergent is its versatility. It claims to clean a range of surfaces including vinyl, wood, brick, stucco, concrete, cement, asphalt, fiberglass, tile, stone, aggregate, metal, plastics, and vehicles. I started with my car, which had accumulated a fair amount of grime and road film. Using the foam blaster, the detergent produced a thick, rich foam that clung to the car’s surface. After letting it sit for a few minutes, I rinsed it off, and I was impressed by how much dirt and grime it removed. My car looked noticeably cleaner and more vibrant.

Next, I used the detergent on my house siding, which had some mildew and algae stains. The foam adhered well to the vertical surfaces, allowing the cleaner ample time to work its magic. After rinsing, the siding looked significantly better, though there was a slight white residue left behind. This was easily removed with an additional rinse, but it’s something to be aware of.

Finally, I tackled my outdoor deck, which hadn’t been thoroughly cleaned in years. The detergent worked wonders here, lifting off dirt and stains with ease. The wood looked almost new again, and the overall appearance of my deck was greatly improved.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of this detergent is how easy it is to use. The foam blaster attachment makes application straightforward, and the thick foam ensures that the detergent stays in place long enough to break down dirt and grime. The 16 oz bottle is compact and easy to handle, though I found that I went through it rather quickly, especially when cleaning larger areas like my deck and house siding.

The instructions are clear and simple, and I appreciated that the detergent is formulated for use with both foam blasters and soap dispensing scrubbers. However, it’s important to note that the detergent is not suitable for deteriorated surfaces unless refinishing. This is a critical point to keep in mind to avoid causing any damage.

Cost and Value

One of the most significant drawbacks of the Ryobi Foam Blaster Detergent is its cost. At around $15 for a 16 oz bottle, it’s on the pricier side compared to other cleaning solutions. Given that it takes approximately 12 oz to wash a single SUV, the cost can add up quickly if you plan to use it frequently. While the detergent is effective, the high price point may deter some users, especially those with larger cleaning projects.

Effectiveness and Residue

Overall, the detergent is effective at removing dirt, grease, oil, grime, road film, and stains caused by algae, mold, and mildew. It performs well on a variety of surfaces, and the foam application ensures thorough coverage. However, I did notice some residue left behind on certain surfaces, particularly house siding. This required additional rinsing to remove, which added to the overall cleaning time.

Safety Considerations

The detergent comes with a warning about cancer and reproductive harm, as indicated by the www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. While this is not uncommon for cleaning products, it’s something to be mindful of, especially if you have concerns about exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. It’s advisable to wear gloves and take necessary precautions to avoid direct contact with the skin.

Manufacturer Warranty

The Ryobi Foam Blaster Detergent comes with a 30-day manufacturer warranty. While this is relatively short, it does provide some peace of mind in case you encounter any issues with the product. However, given the mixed results and high cost, a longer warranty period would be more reassuring.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Ryobi Foam Blaster Detergent Refill, model RY31D55, offers a mixed bag of results. On the positive side, it’s highly effective at cleaning a variety of surfaces, and the thick foam application makes it easy to use. It works particularly well on cars, house siding, and outdoor decks, leaving them looking noticeably cleaner and more vibrant.

However, the high cost of the detergent and the occasional residue it leaves behind are significant drawbacks. Additionally, the 16 oz bottle may not last long if you have large cleaning projects, making it a less economical choice in the long run.

Would I recommend this product? If you’re already invested in the Ryobi ecosystem and value the convenience of a brand-specific detergent, it’s worth considering. The performance is solid, and it’s easy to use with the Ryobi Foam Blaster. However, if cost is a major concern or if you have extensive cleaning needs, you might want to explore more affordable alternatives that offer similar effectiveness. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your specific cleaning requirements and budget.