Best Foam Cannons: Get Professional Results

I took several factors into consideration when choosing the best foam cannons. First, I made sure to choose products that are durable and designed to last. While I didn't have the opportunity to hand test all of the products in this list, I consulted consumer reviews and feedback to see how these units perform in real-world conditions. Some are made of higher-quality materials and are more apt to last longer, so they made the list.

I also checked the size of the bottles and how user-friendly each product was. Some have ergonomic qualities that make them easier to use. Those with adjustable spray patterns and other features also ranked higher. In addition, I made sure to choose foam cannons in a variety of price points to suit a wide range of budgets. For more information on our methodology, go here.

Our pick for the best foam cannon is the McKillans Snow Foam Cannon due to its affordability and capability. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Blisstime Foam Cannon with Wash Mitt. Simply add a wash mitt with the foaming action of a foam cannon, and you’re on your way to having a cleaner vehicle. 

There are two specifications you’ll want to pay attention to when buying a foam cannon. The first is the rate of water flow through the cannon itself. Many can handle upwards of two gallons per minute (GPM). This characteristic will be listed alongside the pressure (in pounds per square inch, or psi). Foam cannons typically require between 1,000 and 3,000 psi. Pressure washers of light to medium duty have a pressure of anywhere from 1,400 to 2,500 psi, so make sure you check your power washer specifications and align them with the specifications of the foam cannon you choose.  

Many manufacturers differentiate themselves based on the shape of the foam cannon they sell. Most bottles will have a capacity of around one liter or 32 to 33 ounces, but it’s the shape of the bottle itself that you’ll want to pay attention to. Most foam cannons resemble a scuba tank. A short, broad neck sits atop wide shoulders that drop straight down the length of the cannon. However, some manufacturers add an ergonomic twist which makes it easier to hold the cannon as you loosen and tighten it.  

You won’t necessarily have to worry about searching for a quick-release foam cannon because most products on the market include this as a standard feature. However, you will want to make sure the platform you are working with accepts the quarter-inch fitting found on most foam cannons. There are ways of adapting your platform to the quarter-inch fitting, but it’s better to be aware of this concern before you purchase a product. Quick-release fittings are desirable because it allows you to store the pressure washer without the foam cannon attached, and you can also easily switch between spraying foam and rinsing the vehicle.

Just like with a pressure washer, sometimes you’ll want to adjust the water spray pattern to more easily direct water towards a specific area of concern. Being able to do the same with a foam cannon allows you to target hard-to-reach areas that require special attention. The ability to adjust the dilution ratio of your foam cannon is another great feature. That way you can go heavy on the areas that need more attention — think wheel wells and front grilles — while staying lighter across the paint and windows, for example. 

Many foam cannons cost around $20. They are often made of plastic and include a brass core nozzle with quarter-inch fittings that are easy to connect and disconnect from a pressure washer. You may find some with accessories, but you typically have to pay a little more for extras such as interchangeable nozzles, wash mitts, and soap. These units can cost upwards of $60. The most expensive foam cannons can cost between $75 and $100 and are designed for professional purposes. They feature the highest-quality materials, are designed to last, and feature controls that allow users to efficiently adjust them to suit specific purposes.

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.