How do you use a diy deck cleaning solution effectively? Learn our top tips for a perfectly clean deck!

Creating your own deck cleaning solution can be effective and economical. Always test any homemade solution on an inconspicuous area of your deck first to ensure it doesn't cause discoloration or damage.

General Purpose Deck Cleaner

This solution is suitable for light cleaning and regular maintenance of most wood and composite decks.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 gallon of warm water
  • 1/4 cup of mild dish soap (phosphate-free, biodegradable recommended)
• Instructions:
  1. Mix the dish soap thoroughly into the warm water in a bucket.
  2. Apply the solution to the deck surface using a mop, deck brush, or garden sprayer.
  3. Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes, but do not let it dry completely.
  4. Gently scrub the deck surface with a soft to medium bristle deck brush, moving with the grain if cleaning wood.
  5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water from a garden hose.

Oxygen Bleach Cleaner (For Mold, Mildew & Algae)

Oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate based) is a safer alternative to chlorine bleach for cleaning wood and composite decks, as it's less harsh on wood fibers and surrounding plants.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 gallon of warm water
  • 1 cup of powdered oxygen bleach (follow product-specific dilution rates if different)
• Instructions:
  1. Dissolve the oxygen bleach powder completely in warm water. Stir until no granules remain.
  2. Apply generously to the affected areas using a garden sprayer or deck brush.
  3. Let the solution sit for 15-30 minutes. Keep the area damp, especially in direct sunlight.
  4. Scrub stubborn areas with a deck brush.
  5. Rinse the deck thoroughly with clean water.

Note on Vinegar: For very light mildew on certain sealed surfaces, a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water can be tested. However, vinegar is acidic and can damage unsealed wood or certain types of stone over time. Use with caution and always rinse thoroughly.

Stubborn Stain Spot Treatment

For localized grease, food, or other tough stains.

• Ingredients:
  • Baking soda
  • Water
  • Or, a concentrated squirt of grease-cutting dish soap.
• Instructions (Baking Soda Paste):
  1. Make a thick paste with baking soda and a small amount of water.
  2. Apply the paste directly to the stain.
  3. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
  4. Scrub gently with a small brush (an old toothbrush works well).
  5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Instructions (Dish Soap):
  1. Apply a small amount of concentrated dish soap directly to the grease stain.
  2. Add a little water and scrub with a brush.
  3. Rinse thoroughly.

Important Application & Safety Tips

• Test First: Always test any cleaning solution on a small, hidden area of your deck before applying it to the entire surface.
• Protective Gear: Wear rubber gloves, eye protection, and old clothing when mixing and applying cleaning solutions.
• Work in Sections: For large decks, clean in manageable sections to prevent the solution from drying out before you can scrub and rinse.
• Scrubbing Tools: Use a deck brush with synthetic bristles. Avoid wire brushes on wood as they can damage the fibers.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure all cleaning solution residue is completely rinsed away to prevent damage or discoloration.
• Protect Plants: Before cleaning, wet down nearby plants and cover them with plastic sheeting if using stronger solutions. Rinse plants again after cleaning is complete.
• Avoid Chlorine Bleach: Do not use chlorine bleach on wood decks. It can damage wood fibers, remove natural color, and is harmful to plants and the environment.