The Best Deck Cleaner: Everything You Need to Know
You know it needs to be cleaned regularly to look its best if you have a deck. But what is the best deck cleaner to use? There are many different options on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. This article will go through the various types of deck cleaners on the market and help you determine which one is best for you. We’ll also provide tips on using and maintaining your deck cleaner so that your deck looks great for years to come!
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know for the Best Deck Cleaner
Summer is coming to an end. The warm weather on July 4th was fantastic. I spent a lot of time this year at the pool with my family. Spending time outside on the deck is a great way to spend an afternoon.
No matter if your deck is by a pool or in a beautiful valley, it’s a great place to relax and think. But after lots of people walking on it this summer, your deck might be looking worse for wear. Don’t worry, though – we found the best products to help you clean your deck.
Deck Cleaner Reviews
It is tough to clean your deck. Just like requiring tools to paint your wall, you need the right cleaning product that matches the material of your deck. With this, you can clean it fast and easily without scrubbing too much or rinsing too often. After that, you can use your tools to paint your deck or just hang out.
30-Seconds Outdoor Cleaner
Cleaning your deck can be a difficult task. It takes time and effort to clean it properly. But with this product, you can clean your deck in just 30 seconds without any scrubbing or hard work. The product will produce a deep cleaning effect.
This formula has special agents that make it so mold and mildew will not grow on your deck. You can use this product easily. Connect your garden home to the back of the spray bottle’s head.
Depress the trigger, and the bottle will release a premixed amount of deck cleaner onto your surface. His solution is designed to clean all sorts of decks without scrubbing and produces a thorough, long-lasting cleaning impact.
Spray the cleaner onto your deck. Wait for thirty seconds and then take the bottle off and rinse it. That is all you need to do to clean a deck. This cleaner is the best in this review, and it comes with 3 bottles for a good price!
Wet & Forget Treatment
This Wet & Forget deck cleaner product is a great choice for cleaning your deck. It doesn’t require any scrubbing, and it lifts the toughest stains from any type of deck material.
You get a spray bottle with the Wet & Forget product. Connect it to the hose and turn on the water. Pulling the trigger mixes the cleaner and water to know how much you are using.
After spraying Wet & Forget on your deck, let it soak for a few minutes to lift tough stains. For the best results, use your yard hose to wash it away. One bottle of Wet & Forget is sufficient to treat 2,000 square feet of deck, so you can use it several times.
This compound has a strong cleansing action. Wet & Forget is expensive, but it’s worth it if you want the best product available.
Mold Armor E-Z
People looking for a good value in a deck cleaner should consider Mold Armor E-Z. This cleaner has an anti-microbial formulation, which protects against mildew and mold. This is important for wooden decks, as these pathogens can cause rot in the materials. The product is ideal for coastal or lakeside homes.
The product comes in a ready-to-mix, easy-to-use bottle. It has a connector, mixing the deck cleaner with the right water before it sprays out.
This Mold Armor product has an active formulation that quickly lifts tough stains. There is no need for a pressure washer when using this product.
It delivers excellent results, leaving your deck looking brand new.
SeaChoice Non-Skid Deck Cleaner
This cleaner is ideal if you live near the sea or a lake. This cleaner will help your deck stay clean and avoid water buildup that can cause accidents. It’s made with a compound that improves traction on your deck, so it is not slippery.
Although the SeaChoice deck cleaner does not include an applicator, it is compatible with all types of pressure washers. You get a concentrated formula that is easy to mix. This product comes with anti-microbial protection, ensuring that no mold or mildew grows under or around your deck.
This product is good for wood and composite decks and aluminum surfaces. It will provide long-lasting protection and coverage for up to 2,000 square feet per gallon.
Charlie’s Soap Indoor & Outdoor Surface Cleaner
Charlie’s soap is a well-known, trusted soap brand in the United States. This soap is strong and perfect for many cleaning tasks around the house, like your deck. Charlie’s soap is designed with biodegradable materials that won’t harm the environment.
The Charlie’s Soap concentrate needs to be mixed with water before being used. Use 1 part soap to 1 part water for tough stains on your deck. You can use 10 parts soap to 1 part water for lighter cleaning jobs. It is safe to use in pressure washer systems, but make sure you dilute it at the 10:1 ratio.
This product does not have a handy spray bottle applicator. You will need to use light scrubbing to get the best results. However, this product is environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
Starbrite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner
Although the SeaChoice deck cleaner does not include an applicator, it is compatible with all types of pressure washers. This Starbrite deck cleaner features a formulation with PTEF, which provides traction to your deck, even when it’s wet.
This deck cleaner is powerful and can lift the toughest stains. It also includes anti-microbial protection to help protect your deck from mold and mildew. These pathogens can damage your wood, causing rot and a costly replacement.
This product gives you a lot of value because you get 2,000 square feet of coverage. It doesn’t come with an applicator bottle, but you can dilute it and use it in the pressure washer.
Rust-Oleum RockSolid Deck Cleaner
Rust-Oleum manufactures some of the highest-quality paints and cleansers available. People trust the Rust-Oleum brand because it is well-known across the country. This deck cleaner is a good choice because it has active ingredients that restore wood decks to their original condition.
This Rust-Oleum formula is good for cleaning composite decks. It comes in a handy spray bottle applicator. But it can also be used as a pressure washer without damaging seals and O-rings. The product is also concentrated, so you only need to mix it with water for easy use.
This product can be used on up to 2,500-square feet per gallon. It also cleans stains and sealers that are old. This product has an anti-microbial formulation, good for decks near the ocean or water.
Olympic Stain Premium Deck Brightener & Wash
Olympic Stain has a successful line of staining products for decks. Now they’ve added a deck cleaner to their catalog. This deck cleaner is designed to give you the best results when cleaning wooden decks. It uses premium materials designed to lift tough stains from any surface.
This ready-mix cleaner can be used in a pressure washer for the best results. If you lack a pressure washer, simply pour the solution on your deck and scrub it with a brush to remove stubborn stains.
This Olympic Stain product can remove tanning stains and rust from wood without any trouble. It is an excellent choice for exotic hardwoods and other delicate materials like Redwoods and bare cedar.
Krud Kutter Deck and Fence Cleaner
If you are looking for a deck cleaner that is affordable and effective, this Krud Kutter product is the best. It has an advanced biodegradable formulation with non-toxic ingredients. The instructions are easy to follow on the bottle.
You don’t have a spray bottle with this product. But if you use it with a pressure washer, it will not damage the O-rings and seals in your machine. Krud Kutter is a simple, environmentally friendly deck cleaner with a strong cleaning effect.
This product protects your deck from fungus, mold, and mildew. The protection lasts long in humid environments and is easy to apply with no scrubbing required. After using, you can apply a fence stain to protect the wood from the weather.
Deck Cleaner Buyer’s Guide
Keeping your deck in good condition is crucial if you want it to look lovely. This means washing it every once in a while – after a summer of being outdoors, it will likely need it. Taking care of your deck enhances its beauty and can even increase the value of your home.
After reading the product reviews, you probably know what deck cleaner is best for your needs. But if you want more information on choosing the right deck cleaner, this section will help you.
Why Do I Need a Deck Cleaner?
You need to take care of your deck as you do with all the other features around your house. The dirt can damage your wood if you don’t, and mold will start to grow in the dark corners. Without cleaning it, it will degrade into an unsightly mess, and the mold will begin to destroy the wood.
Once or twice a year, cleaning your deck using a deck cleaner solution helps maintain its appearance. Deck cleaner formulas usually have ingredients that protect your deck from mold. This is good for your deck and for your family’s safety. Deck cleaners help keep your deck looking natural, no matter the material.
Is a Separate Deck Cleaner Required for Aluminum and Wood Decks?
Some deck cleaners come with special formulas like mold protection. Other formulas make the decks easier to walk on when they are wet.
There are different products in this review that can clean different deck materials. There are products for concrete, wood, or aluminum decks.
An aluminum deck might not clean well with a cleaner designed for wood. So you need to find a cleaner that is good for aluminum or good for any material.
What Are the Characteristics of an Effective Deck Cleaner Product?
What should you look for in the greatest deck cleaning solution? Let’s dig into the specifics of the finest deck cleaner for your yard.
- Anti-Microbial Formulation – Make sure to buy products that have anti-microbial protection against mold and mildew. This is especially critical if your deck is located near the shore or a body of water, as it can help prevent wood rot development. If your deck does become infected with rot, this protection can help limit the damage.
- Application through Spray Bottle — Certain products are available in a spray bottle. The garden hose attaches to the back of the spray bottle, and you turn on the water. When you pull the spray bottle’s trigger, the cleaner is mixed with the appropriate amount of water. These products are good for cleaning roofs, and they make cleaning your deck easy.
- Premixed or Concentrate? — Certain items are premixed and ready to use. Usually, you just pour the package on and scrub it to avoid stains. You can also buy concentrate formulas. Pour them in your pressure washer and start to apply the cleaner to your deck. Make sure that the cleaner is sealed safe, so nothing leaks out.
- Cleaning Action – The cleaner for your deck should be strong. It should also come to get tough stains. You need to leave it for a few minutes before washing it off with water.
- Is Scrubbing Required? – Some cleaners require scrubbing to remove tough stains. These premixed formulas are ready to use right out of the bottle. You will need to scrub the hard stains on the deck and leave the cleaner to penetrate the wood before washing it away with a garden hose.
- Value for Money – The cost of deck cleaners can vary. If you buy a spray-on or pour-on solution, they will be more expensive than a premixed package. Some products come in packages to get more for your money.
- Trusted Brand – When you buy a deck cleaner, get one from a trusted company. All the products in this review come from companies that make good things. They have been around for a long time, and people trust them to do good things.
- How Do You Clean It Off Your Deck? – Some formulas need to be scrubbed off your deck, while others can be easily washed off with your garden hose.
- Non-Toxic and Biodegradable Ingredients – When choosing a product for your home. It is important to find one with non-toxic and biodegradable ingredients. This will help keep your home’s environment safe and reduce its impact on the local area.
- Non-Slip additives – If you have a deck near the ocean or a lake, you might have noticed how it gets wet from the ocean spray or condensation in the morning. To stop your deck from getting slippery when it’s wet, look for cleaners that have a non-slip additive, like PTEF. PTEF leaves a protective layer on your deck that gives you traction to the surface in wet weather.
- Compatibility with Pressure Washers – Some deck cleaners come in spray bottles that you can connect to your hose. Others come in a concentrated form, so you can use them with your pressure washer. Pressure washing your deck is easier than using the garden hose, and it does a really good job.
How to Use a Deck Cleaner: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here are step-by-step instructions on how to use your deck cleaner.
Step 1 – Premix or Concentrate?
You can put it on the deck and start scrubbing if you’re using a premix. Premix formulas require you to do the hard work of cleaning your deck.
If you don’t feel like scrubbing your home, we recommend using a pressure washer or a product with a spray applicator.
Step 2 – Pressure Washer or Spray Bottle Applicator?
Concentrate formulas are used in pressure washers and spray gun attachments. If you have a pressure washer, fill the dedicated liquid compartment, and start the machine.
If you’re using the spray applicator that came with your purchase, connect the garden hose to it and turn on the water to prime the device.
Step 3 – Clean the Deck
After filling your pressure washer or connecting the hose, clean the deck. Start at one corner and then keep going around in a pattern.
If you don’t have a pressure washer, a spray-gun applicator is the next best thing for cleaning your deck.
Step 4 – Leave to Soak
After you have applied your deck cleaner, leave it to soak in. The formula will seep into the wood and lift any stains. If you rinse it too early, the formula will not have time to penetrate tough stains, and you will have to repeat the treatment.
Step 5 – Rinse Clean
After a few minutes, you can wash the cleaner away using the garden hose or your pressure washer. If you have a pressure washer, it is ideal for this purpose; but if not, a garden hose will do the job.
Step 6 – Repeat as Necessary
If you have a very dirty deck, it might need more than one treatment. But if your deck looks clean, you should do the treatment at least once a year. It is best to do it at the end of summer.
You can check out this link to learn more about choosing the best deck cleaners for your home.
Best Deck Cleaners Reviews
Outdoor decks are popular places to entertain and relax. However, they need to be cleaned regularly to keep them looking new. You can clean your deck in the spring or summer. Make sure you seal it afterward to protect it from the weather.
Choose a cleaner appropriate for your deck's material if you want the best results. If you're looking for the best deck cleaner on the market, keep reading to find out which products we think are the best.
1. STAR BRITE Non-Skid Deck Cleaner & Protectant
You can use this gentle deck cleaner from STAR BRITE to clean painted wood decks or composite wood decks. The cleaner contains noncaustic detergents that help remove dirt and spills without scrubbing.
STAR BRITE is a product that is made to clean boats. Even though it is made for boats, it can also clean residential decks. You can apply the STAR BRITE liquid using a pump sprayer or a soft deck brush.
The cleaner leaves behind a microscopic coating of polymer protection to prevent future stains and spills. A 1-gallon jug can clean and treat a deck up to 1,000 square feet.
2. Total Outdoor Cleaner by Simple Green Oxy
When cleaning your deck, use an environmentally friendly cleaner. Simple Green is a cleaner that the EPA has recognized as being safe. It comes in a gallon jug and can be diluted to clean up to 6,400 square feet of decking, masonry, and other exterior surfaces.
Can apply this Simple Green product either manually or with a pressure washer. For the best results, spray it on the surface and let it sit for up to 7 minutes to dissolve grime and dirt. Then rinse with plain water. Spray nearby plants and lawn with the residual solution to wash it away to be extra safe.
3. Oil Eater Original Cleaner/Degreaser
Oil Eater is a professional-strength concentrated liquid that removes oil and grease from multiple surfaces. It is non-toxic and non-corrosive, making it good for iron railings or stairs decks.
Can dilute oil Ester cleaner with water in a bucket. You can use a deck brush to apply it to the deck surface. The concentration of the cleaner can be adjusted to suit the extent of greasy stains. If the stains are tough, mix a 1:1 (cleaner-to-water) ratio. If there is light residue, mix a mild 1:20 ratio. Adjusting the strength makes Oil Eater versatile enough for light, medium, and heavy-duty tasks.
4. Citra-shield Exterior Algae Control Systems
CITRA-SHIELD is a cleaner that removes algae. However, the unique feature of this product is that it is designed to keep algae from growing again. It comes in a one-gallon jug, which you can pour into a garden sprayer to apply to your deck. There's no need for mixing, scrubbing, or rinsing.
This cleaner helps to get rid of algae stains. The lightest stains may fade in as little as one to three days, while the darkest stains may take as long as six weeks to remove. Be sure to spray down the surrounding plants with water before and after using this cleaner.
5. Karcher Multi-Purpose Pressure Washer Detergent Soap
If you use a pressure washer to clean your deck or outdoor fencing, you should try Karcher's multipurpose detergent. It is designed to work on decks and other wood surfaces. The concentrated liquid produces 20 gallons of cleaning solution in a 1-gallon container when diluted. Using a pressure washer to apply the cleaner to the surface will expedite the cleaning process.
This multipurpose exterior cleaner contains a powerful cleaning agent called sodium tripolyphosphate. This agent will penetrate the wood grain and clean it deeply. While applying the solution, wear protective clothing and keep pets and children away from the area. The solution should never come in contact with plants. After washing the deck, if you're unsure, hose off any neighboring plants.
6. DEFY Wood Brightener
DEFY's wood brightener is a good cleaner to use before you put a new coat of deck stain on your weathered wood deck. This cleaner will make your deck look clean and new. It is safe to use on all types of wood.
DEFY brings new life to worn wood by bringing out the natural grain. Because of this, deck stain penetrates the wood more evenly, making this intense cleaner ideal for cleaning a deck before staining. When diluted with water, a 1-gallon container produces 5 gallons of cleaning solution. The deck should be completely rinsed with plain water after using a pump-type garden sprayer to apply.
7. Deck BOSS by Perdura
Suppose you have been looking at reviews of composite deck cleaners on the internet. In that case, you are probably familiar with this product because of its unique design.
This product is very convenient because its brush-like design makes it easy to apply quickly and efficiently.
The Deck BOSS is a great composite deck cleaner that will help you coat your deck correctly. This product by Perdura is designed to work well with any level of experience you have.
This composite deck cleaning solution is very convenient to use. It comes with attachments that will make it easy to clean your deck. Each unit of this product comes with a brush comb and a keyring, so you can use it without making any extra purchases.
This composite deck cleaner says it will give you a quick and even application, but it has a major flaw. The brush's bristles are too soft, making it hard to control or hold onto the stains. This means that there will be a lot of drips.
8. Wash Safe Composite Deck Cleaner
These days, there are a lot of cleaning products that focus on features. But they don't always work well. If you're looking for a product only meant to clean composite decking, then this one is perfect. It will show you how dedicated it is to the job.
If you use composite deck cleaners, be careful not to leave a big pool of cleaners on the deck. This will increase your chances of getting stains.
This unit's powerful surfactants will ensure that your deck won't get stained, even if you leave it on the surface for a long time.
Eco-friendly composite deck cleaners are weaker than other cleaners. They just clean the surface of the deck. However, this product works better than its competitors because it deep into the deck's wood and cleans it.
This will help you avoid having to clean for a while.
This product is close to perfect, but it still has some flaws. Another issue is that it takes a long to start operating and doesn't always eliminate stains.
9. DeckMAX Concentrated Composite & Wood Deck Cleaner Kit
No other composite deck brightener is as good as this one because it has premium ingredients. One unit can easily clean up a deck as big as 1500 sq. ft. in a short amount of time.
Most composite deck cleaners require you to purchase a special brush to clean your deck. However, DeckMAX comes with everything you need to get the job done, so you don't have to spend extra money. The brush is high-quality and makes cleaning decks more convenient than ever.
When looking for deck cleaners, it is important to check if the cleaner is compatible with your deck material. Some cleaners are only made to work with one type of material.
This is perhaps the best Trex deck cleaner that is available. It works very well on Trex decks and various other wood decks. Although it is a great composite deck cleaner for routine maintenance, it has drawbacks.
Because a vacuum cleaner doesn't always capture all the dirt and dust, it might be a hassle to use one.
10. Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner & Protectant
Although many cleaning agents promise a quick and effectively clean, none are as versatile as this wash-safe composite deck cleaner.
This product is suitable for use on a wide range of surfaces. Can use it clean fiberglass, plastic, rubber, and metal without damaging the surface.
One of the problems with composite deck cleaners is that they require a lot of scrubbing to work. This can damage the wood. Star Brite has developed a new product that doesn't require any scrubbing. It uses a chelating agent to lift dirt and spills quickly and easily.
This composite deck cleaner cleans your deck and protects it from dirt and spills. This will help keep your deck clean for a longer time. The product has polymers that help to keep the wood from getting stained.
People should be aware of the drawbacks and issues with this product before they buy it. One of the most significant problems is the packaging. It is cheap and flimsy, leading to leakage if not handled with care.
Before You Buy Deck Cleaner
Cleaning a deck can improve its appearance and also help to protect it from damage. If the deck has mold or mildew, a cleaner can help eliminate it. After cleaning the deck, applying a stain or sealer can protect it from weather and UV rays.
Types of Deck Cleaner
There are a wide variety of deck cleaners on the market. You should choose one suited to both the type of decking material and the kind of grime or debris you need to remove. Some deck cleaners are used in pressure washers, while others are sprayed or brushed on the deck. No-rinse options contain ingredients that continue to clean or protect the deck even weeks after the initial cleaning.
All-Purpose Wood Deck Cleaner
All-purpose wood deck cleaners are good for cleaning the surface of your deck. They come premixed, so they are easy to use, or you can get them in concentrated form to mix with water.
These cleaners are good for cleaning exterior woods like cedar, teak, and redwood. They are also good for cleaning wood decking that has been pressure treated with alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) or copper azole (CA).
People will usually use a sprayer or deck brush to put the deck cleaner on the surface. They will then spread it out evenly with a mop and rinse it with a garden hose. If there are any stubborn stains, they may need to scrub them with a deck brush.
Gentle All-Purpose Deck Cleaner
Harsh cleaners can damage painted wood decks. Peeling or cracking of the paint is a possible outcome. Using an ammonia-free deck cleaner containing surfactants is best to avoid this. This will help keep the deck looking new for longer.
The label on the cleaner should say that it is safe for painted surfaces. The cleaner should be sprayed or squirted onto the deck, lightly mopped to clean away dirt and grime, and then wiped dry with clean, soft rags.
Restorative Wood Deck Cleaner
Wood decks, especially cedar and redwood, can become dull over time and take on a gray appearance. Rust may also form around screw heads or along the wood grain.
Consider purchasing a cleaner that claims to "lighten" or "brighten" wood if your deck looks a little dingy. This sort of cleaner typically comprises bleach, oxalic acid, or oxygenated components such as sodium percarbonate, all of which can lighten the wood and dissolve any stains.
You can use these cleaners to clean your deck. You will need to spray it on, brush it in, and rinse it off with a hose.
Composite Wood Deck Cleaner
Composite decking is made from wood and plastic. It is designed to be long-lasting and doesn't decay or rot. Be careful when using a wood cleaner on composite decking because some cleaners may strip the sheen and make it look dull.
There are special deck cleaners made for composite lumber. They often contain surfactants, a chemical that leaves a thin protective layer on the surface. This helps to repel staining. Most of these cleaners come as a spray, but you can also brush it on with a soft brush and rinse it off with a garden hose.
Vinyl Deck Cleaner
Polyvinyl chloride decks, often called "vinyl decks," are long-lasting and weather resistant. Because they don't soak up water, most all-purpose cleaners work fine on them. Be careful when choosing a cleaner because some contain bleaching ingredients that can dull the surface of your deck. Today's vinyl decks can also be cleaned with the same safe cleaners used on plastic and composite decks.
Mildewcide Deck Cleaner
If it rains a lot where you live, the fungus can grow on your wood deck. The fungus will grow and eventually damage the wood if it is not treated.
If you see any black or green mildew spots or white powdery mildew stains, look for a cleanser that contains mildewcide.
Make sure you don't rinse off the cleaner. This will allow it to kill the fungi and then seep into the deck's surface to reduce the chance of future mold or mildew growth.
Deck Cleaner and Sealer
Deck cleaners can be bought at most stores. They often contain detergents, but some also contain chemicals that adhere to the wood grain and form a temporary layer that repels dust and debris for a few weeks or months.
Some deck cleaners can not only clean your deck but also make it water-resistant. This means that the deck will stay cleaner for longer and won't get as wet when it rains. However, this effect does not last forever, so you will eventually need to seal your deck with a proper sealant.
Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaner
Today's deck cleaners come in eco-friendly varieties that don't contain harsh chemicals. Some use vinegar or baking soda, which are safe for plants and grass.
Oxygen bleach and peroxide are two common ingredients in environmentally friendly deck cleaners. When applied with a pressure washer, these milder cleaners can effectively remove deck stains and brighten wood without posing a toxic danger.
Even eco-friendly cleaners can irritate the skin, so be careful when applying them. Wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin, and make sure to rinse off any splashes that get on your skin. It's also important to wear protective eyewear to prevent the solution from getting in your eyes.
Tips to Keep Composite Deck Perfectly Clean
1. Cleaning Time
You need to maintain your composite deck regularly to keep it looking its best. You should deep clean it every two months to make sure the wood stays in good condition, and the cleaning process doesn't take too long.
2. Dealing with Food
If you spill food on your deck, make sure to clean it up right away. Leaving food spills on your deck can stain it and attract wildlife to your home.
3. Brightening the Deck
To keep your deck looking new, you should avoid using chemicals to clean it. Instead, use a deck brightener after cleaning it with a composite deck cleaner. This will make the deck look shiny and new.
4. Organic Dirt Removal
Using strong chemicals to clean mold, moss, mildew, algae, or other organic debris can damage the wood. It's better to use a mild soap mixed with water instead.