Creating an effective homemade deck wash is a straightforward process. These solutions can help remove dirt, grime, mold, and mildew, preparing your deck for sealing or simply refreshing its appearance.
Safety First
Before starting, always prioritize safety:
- Wear protective eyewear and gloves.
- Test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the deck first to ensure it doesn't damage or discolor the wood.
- Protect nearby plants by covering them with plastic sheeting or by thoroughly wetting them with plain water before and after applying the cleaner.
- Avoid mixing ammonia-based cleaners with chlorine bleach, as this creates toxic fumes. For wood, oxygen bleach is generally preferred over chlorine bleach.
Common Homemade Deck Wash Recipes
1. Gentle All-Purpose Cleaner
This solution is suitable for light cleaning and regular maintenance.
- Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1/4 cup of mild dish soap (biodegradable is best)
- Optional: 1 cup of white vinegar (for light mildew or brightening)
- Mixing: Combine ingredients in a bucket. Stir gently to mix without creating excessive suds.
2. Oxygen Bleach Cleaner (For Mold, Mildew & Tough Grime)
Oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) is effective against organic stains and is less harsh on wood and plants than chlorine bleach.
- Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1 cup of powdered oxygen bleach (follow product-specific dilution rates if different)
- Optional: 1/4 cup of mild dish soap (helps the solution cling)
- Mixing: Dissolve the oxygen bleach completely in warm water in a bucket. Add dish soap if using. Oxygen bleach is most effective when freshly mixed.
3. Borax Cleaner (For Mold & Mildew)
Borax is a natural mineral that can inhibit mold growth.
- Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1 cup of borax powder
- Mixing: Dissolve the borax thoroughly in the warm water.
Application Method
Regardless of the chosen recipe, the application process is generally similar:
- Preparation: Remove all furniture, planters, and debris from the deck. Sweep the deck thoroughly.
- Protect Surroundings: Cover or wet down any nearby plants or sensitive surfaces.
- Wet the Deck: Lightly spray the deck surface with plain water. This helps the cleaner absorb more evenly and prevents the wood from drying out too quickly.
- Apply Cleaner:
- For smaller decks, use a garden sprayer, a mop, or a stiff-bristled deck brush to apply the solution.
- Work in manageable sections, especially on hot, sunny days, to prevent the cleaner from drying before you can rinse it.
- Dwell Time: Let the solution sit on the deck surface for 10-20 minutes (or as recommended if using a commercial oxygen bleach product). Do not allow it to dry completely. Keep it moist by misting with water if necessary.
- Scrub: For stubborn stains or heavily soiled areas, scrub with a stiff-bristled deck brush, going with the grain of the wood. A long-handled brush will make this easier.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the deck completely with a garden hose, starting from the highest point and working downwards. Ensure all cleaning solution residue is removed, as leftover cleaner can attract dirt or affect future stains/sealers. A pressure washer on a low setting can be used cautiously, keeping the nozzle moving and at a safe distance to avoid damaging the wood.
- Allow to Dry: Let the deck dry completely (usually 24-48 hours) before using it or applying any stains or sealers.
Important Considerations
- Wood Type: Softwoods like pine or cedar are more susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals or aggressive scrubbing/pressure washing than hardwoods. Always start with the gentlest cleaning method.
- Previous Finishes: If your deck has an existing stain or sealer, a homemade cleaner might affect it. Always test in an inconspicuous area.
- Environmental Impact: Opt for biodegradable soaps and be mindful of runoff, especially if your deck is near waterways or sensitive vegetation. Oxygen bleach breaks down into environmentally benign components (water, oxygen, and soda ash).
Regular cleaning can significantly extend the life and beauty of your deck.
