Powerwash is Chrome OS’s name for a factory reset. It wipes all local data, removes all accounts, and returns the Chromebook to its out-of-box state. Because most data is stored in Google’s cloud, you can restore everything by simply signing back in after the Powerwash is complete.

When Should You Powerwash a Chromebook?

• The Chromebook is running slowly and a restart has not helped.
• You are selling or giving away the device and want to remove your account and data.
• A software issue or corrupted setting is causing persistent problems.
• You are handing it to a family member or student who needs a clean setup.

What Powerwash Deletes

• All Google accounts signed in on the device.
• Locally downloaded files (Downloads folder, offline files).
• Installed Android apps and their data.
• Linux environment and all Linux apps (if enabled).
• Local settings and customisations.

Files stored in Google Drive, Gmail, Google Photos, and other cloud services are NOT deleted. They are tied to your Google account and will be accessible again after signing back in.

Before You Powerwash: Back Up Local Files

Back up anything in your Downloads folder that is not already in Google Drive. Open the Files app, go to Downloads, and move any important files to Google Drive before proceeding.

How to Powerwash from Settings

1. Click the time in the bottom right to open Quick Settings.
2. Click the gear icon to open Settings.
3. In the search bar at the top, type Powerwash.
4. Click Powerwash in the results, then click Reset.
5. A dialog will confirm the action. Click Restart.
6. After the Chromebook restarts, click Powerwash and then Continue to confirm.
7. The reset process takes 2-5 minutes. The device will restart and show the initial setup screen.

How to Powerwash from the Login Screen

If you cannot access Settings (forgotten password, broken interface), you can Powerwash from the login screen:

1. On the login screen, press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R.
2. Click Restart.
3. After the restart, select Powerwash and then Continue.

How to Sign Back In After Powerwash

After Powerwash completes, the Chromebook shows the setup screen. Connect to Wi-Fi, sign in with your Google account, and your settings, apps, and Drive files will restore automatically within a few minutes.

Powerwashing a Managed Chromebook

School and work Chromebooks managed by an organisation cannot be Powerwashed by the user. If you attempt it, the device will re-enroll to the organisation’s management system after the reset. Contact your IT administrator to remove management before Powerwashing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Powerwash delete Google Drive files?

No. Powerwash only removes local data from the device. Your Google Drive files remain safe and accessible from any device after signing back in.

How long does a Powerwash take?

The reset itself takes 2-5 minutes. Re-downloading your Android apps and restoring settings after signing back in may take an additional 10-15 minutes depending on how many apps you had installed.

Can I Powerwash a Chromebook without the password?

Yes. Use the login screen method: press Ctrl + Alt + Shift + R on the login screen to initiate Powerwash without needing the account password.