Kärcher K1800PS Cube Pressure Washer Review
The Kärcher K1800PS Cube looks more like a compact storage box than a typical electric pressure washer. Its cube-shaped body takes up little room, making it easier to store in areas like a crowded garage where space is limited. The design also makes it easy to pick up and carry when you have several cleaning projects on the go.
Its unusual shape tells you quite a lot about the K1800PS Cube. But is it a practical choice for cleaning cars, garden furniture, steps and smaller paved areas, or does its small footprint limit what it can do? We look at how well the design works in use, where it performs best and which cleaning jobs are better left to a larger machine.
Key Features
- 1,800 PSI maximum pressure
- Compact cube-shaped design
- Integrated accessory storage
- Onboard soap tank
- Foot-operated power switch
- Multiple spray nozzles
Design and Build Quality
Its compact footprint makes the K1800PS Cube easy to store in a garage or shed. Being so compact, it can even fit on a shelf, which is handy for maximizing space. The built-in carry handle is part of the main body, so it does not need a separate frame. At 19 lb, it is also easy to carry between cleaning areas. The machine itself feels solidly built and remains stable during use.
Storage
Built-in storage is included and is well thought out. A removable container holds the spray gun, wand and hose at the back of the unit. The storage container also has drain holes, allowing water to escape instead of collecting inside after use.
The 15° and 65° nozzles are stored on the removable detergent tank. This keeps the main attachments together and makes the pressure cleaner easier to store without taking up much additional space.
Foot-Operated Power Switch
The on/off switch is positioned at the front of the Cube It can be operated with your foot, so there is no need to bend down to start or stop the machine. This is useful when you are already standing over the cleaning area and want to pause the pressure washer between tasks.
There is one issue though. The switch is located on the same side as the water hose outlet, which may be less convenient depending on how the machine is positioned.
Performance
The K1800PS Cube is geared towards routine cleaning around the home rather than heavy-duty work. Its 1,800 PSI TruPressure rating provides enough cleaning power for cars, patios, siding and garden furniture. It cleans away surface dirt, grime and green scum impressively well considering its limited power and small size.
For cars, the 65° soap nozzle provides a wide, low-pressure spray for rinsing and applying detergent. This makes it the safer choice for vehicle paintwork than the narrower 15° nozzle. The Cube also has enough pressure to remove road dirt and general grime from exterior surfaces. The onboard detergent system can improve results by helping loosen dirt before pressure washing.
When tackling patios, concrete and paving, using the 15° nozzle is recommended as it produces a narrower and more concentrated spray. It is suited to harder surfaces such as concrete, brick and masonry. The turbo nozzle is another option for stubborn grime on durable surfaces. For larger patio areas, a compatible Kärcher T-Racer surface cleaner can cover more ground than the standard spray wand and make finishing the job much quicker.
Cleaning a Large Driveway?
The Kärcher Cube is easy to carry and store, but larger areas may benefit from more cleaning power. See our guide to pressure washers for driveway cleaning.
Accessories and Attachments
Once unpacked, the K1800PS Cube includes:
- Three spray nozzles: 15°, 65° and turbo
- Spray gun
- Spray wand
- 3/4-inch garden hose adapter
- 0.3-gallon removable detergent tank
- 20-foot M22 high-pressure hose
The removable detergent tank is easy to fill and clean. It is designed for soap use, and Kärcher says that bleach should not be used. The tank provides a built-in way to apply detergent before pressure washing.
The 20-foot M22 hose connects easily to the unit and spray gun. However, the thermoplastic hose has received criticism for being stiff and difficult to uncoil. Some owners say they need to move the pressure washer because the hose does not uncoil easily. The 20-foot length may be too short when cleaning larger areas.
Kärcher sells a compatible 50-foot replacement/extension hose, which provides more reach and uses a different hose material. So the supplied hose length is not a fixed limitation.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Good cleaning power despite its compact size
- Compact cube design takes up little storage space
- Light weight makes carrying it easy
- Foot-operated switch allows convenient hands-free power control
Things to Consider
- 20-foot hose provides limited reach for larger areas
- Stiff thermoplastic hose can be difficult to uncoil
- Some owners report leaks around hose connections
Final Thoughts on the Kärcher K1800PS Cube
The space-saving design of the Kärcher K1800PS Cube is its defining feature, but it still packs in some impressive cleaning power. It is easy to carry and store, making it practical for homes where space in outbuildings is limited. The main compromise is the 20-foot thermoplastic hose, which can be stiff and difficult to uncoil. But the hose can be later upgraded if needed.
That balance of power and size makes the Cube a good fit for most home outdoor cleaning jobs. It delivers enough cleaning power without the size of a conventional pressure washer. However, larger cleaning areas may require more repositioning. For those who value compact storage and easy carrying, those trade-offs are quite easy to accept.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Kärcher Cube can be fitted with upgrades such as a longer high-pressure hose, upgraded spray gun and foam cannon. These upgrades are mainly useful for enthusiasts who wash vehicles regularly. For occasional car cleaning, the standard accessories are sufficient.