Learning to clean vinyl siding without scrubbing entails a little more effort, but you’ll appreciate the results. Your siding looks brighter, and you avoid the risk of scouring the surface. Proper cleaning is crucial because scrapes are virtually invisible until dirt settles in them.
Over time, scrubbing mars the surface to such an extent that it looks shabby soon after cleaning and requires more frequent replacement.
Learn more by reading this helpful guide from the team at Evergreen Window Cleaning & Home Maintenance. Using these professional tricks will make your siding gleam in next to no time.
What Are The Different Cleaner Solutions
White Vinegar
A 30% white vinegar combined with 70% water creates an all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner. Its main purpose is to diminish mildew stains and light molds.
Laundry Detergent, Liquid Laundry Bleach, Household Cleaner
If you are looking for a stronger vinyl siding cleaner, you can opt to mix a laundry detergent, and liquid laundry bleach, together with a household cleaner. The exact measurement should be one-quart liquid laundry bleach, a two-thirds cup of household cleaner in powdered form, and a one-third cup of laundry detergent, powdered. To complement, use one gallon of water.
Oxygen Bleach
A vinyl siding cleaner with a cup of oxygen bleach and one gallon of water mixture makes it an environmentally-friendly option. This is helpful especially if you are maintaining a landscaping wherein it will clean the viny without damaging anything.
General Household Cleaners
General household cleaners such as Lysol are some of the most effective vinyl siding cleaners. They can used to clean tough stains and dirts including those that are caused by bubble gum, ink, crayon, rust, oil, grease, grass, or even soil. Furthermore, rust stains can easily be removed as this is designed for the said purpose.
How To Clean Vinyl Siding Stains Without a Pressure Washer
Bleach Solution
Bleach effectively kills mold and mildew but will degrade your siding if you use it without properly diluting it as follows:
One part bleach to four parts water. For example, you’d use one gallon of water for every quart of bleach. Alternatively, choose brand variations for that purpose.
Apply the solution to the siding, and allow it to sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly.
Are you wondering how to clean vinyl siding high up? You can buy a garden hose attachment to make this simpler. In need, you may also use a soft-bristled brush to extend your reach.
The downside of this method is that even diluted bleach may harm plants and people it splashes. Standing back to avoid splashing and keeping your pets and children indoors would be best. Vinegar is safer if you have prized plants in the immediate runoff area.
Vinegar Solution
Dilute the vinegar as follows:
Three parts bleach to seven parts water. Apply the solution in the same manner as the bleach.
How To Clean Vinyl Siding Windows With a Pressure Washer
How To Pressure Wash Vinyl Siding Without Warping It
Learning how to pressure wash vinyl siding is a delicate art. We recommend sticking to low or variable pressure machines on which you can select lower settings. It is better to work slowly using the following process at a low level than face the expense of warped siding.
Use Pressure Washer Detergent
The real trick to cleaning vinyl siding is using the correct products. Select a cleaning detergent that your machine manufacturer recommends and one that is safe for your siding.
Apply the Detergent Solution
The advantage of a power washer is that it applies an even layer of the detergent quickly and efficiently. It also pushes the solution higher up the wall and into nooks and crannies.
How To Clean Vinyl Siding High Up
An extension wand is a helpful tool to reach those higher areas.
Use a Brush for Tough Spots
Another solid tip for cleaning vinyl siding without scrubbing is to nudge away with a soft-bristled brush.
Leave It To Absorb Before Rinsing
Check the manufacturer’s instructions regarding how long to leave it in place.
Clean Your Siding With a Spray Bottle
Your final tip on cleaning vinyl siding is to rinse the detergent thoroughly.
Things Not To Do When Removing Rust in Vinyl Siding
There is a caveat when learning how to clean vinyl siding without scrubbing. Some homeowners mistakenly buy harsh solvents or chemical cleaners that are too strong. For instance, “rust” stains require gentle treatment to eliminate the lime.
These eat away at the dirt in record time, making it difficult to remove them before they begin to break down the siding. If you try any specialist product, please ensure it won’t harm your vinyl.
Alternatively, the bleach mixture above effectively removes the rust stain and prevents it from recurring.
Related Article: The Best Vinyl Siding Cleaners For Your Home
Hire Professional Vinyl Siding Cleaners Now!
Does the above seem daunting to you? If you don’t have the time or equipment or would feel more comfortable leaving this task to the professionals, contact Evergreen Window Cleaning & Home Maintenance.
As your friendly local experts, we’re happy to save you time and effort. Why not spend the afternoon working on your golf game or completing more enjoyable DIY projects while we do the dirty work?
Reach out via our handy online form or call us at 206-888-6690 for your free quote. Now that you know how to clean vinyl siding properly, put us to the test!
