Effective Homemade Deck Cleaning Solutions
Creating your own deck cleaner is a cost-effective and often more environmentally friendly approach to maintaining your outdoor space. These recipes utilize common household ingredients to effectively address dirt, grime, and mildew.
General Purpose Deck Cleaners
For routine cleaning and light soiling:
- Vinegar Solution:
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. For a gentler cleaner, use one part vinegar to four parts water. This solution is effective for light cleaning and can help inhibit mildew. Caution: Vinegar is acidic. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first, particularly on newer wood, sealed surfaces, or composite decking, as it may affect some finishes or materials.
- Mild Soap Solution:
Add a few squirts of gentle dish soap (preferably biodegradable and free of harsh degreasers or antibacterial agents) to one gallon of warm water. This is a generally safe option for most deck materials and tackles common dirt and grime.
Cleaners for Mold, Mildew, and Tougher Stains
- Oxygen Bleach Cleaner:
Dissolve powdered oxygen bleach in warm water following the manufacturer's specific instructions (a common ratio is approximately one cup per gallon of water). Oxygen bleach is a less harsh alternative to chlorine bleach and is effective against mold, mildew, and algae. It is generally safe for wood and composite decking, but a spot test is always recommended.
- Baking Soda Paste (for spot cleaning):
Create a thick paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply this paste directly to stubborn stains, such as grease spots. Allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush and rinse the area thoroughly. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive.
Application and Safety Precautions
- Preparation: Always begin by thoroughly sweeping your deck to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris. Protect adjacent plants and vegetation by covering them or lightly spraying them with water before and after cleaning.
- Testing: Before applying any homemade cleaner to the entire deck surface, test it on a small, hidden section to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage.
- Application: Apply the chosen cleaning solution evenly using a garden sprayer, mop, or a deck brush. Allow the solution to dwell on the surface for 10-15 minutes, but do not let it dry completely, as this can make rinsing more difficult.
- Scrubbing: Use a deck brush with stiff, non-metallic bristles to scrub the surface. If cleaning a wood deck, scrub in the direction of the wood grain.
- Rinsing: Rinse the deck thoroughly with clean water from a garden hose. Ensure all cleaning solution residue is completely removed to prevent streaking or damage.
- Safety Gear: Always wear protective gear, including rubber gloves and eye protection, to prevent skin and eye irritation from cleaning solutions.
- Mixing Agents: Never mix different cleaning agents, particularly chlorine bleach with acidic substances (like vinegar) or ammonia-based products, as this can produce hazardous toxic fumes. Prepare and use one cleaning solution at a time.
