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10 Best Deck Cleaners of 2024

Updated
10 incredible deck cleaners made for blasting away stubborn stains.

Decks are the perfect place to spend those long summer nights, host barbecues, and relax with a book. But they can get pretty dirty pretty fast, making them a place you never want to go.

Using one of the best deck cleaners on the market can take your deck from scruffy to spotless in no time. But with tons of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide. That’s where I come in!

I’ve researched dozens of products, so you don’t have to. After hours of research into real customer reviews, expert advice, and specific details about each cleaner, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 10. So keep reading to find the right fit for your cleaning needs!

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the SaverSystem #1 Deck Wood Cleaner
Best for Cleaning Wood
SaverSystem #1 Deck Wood Cleaner
  • Suitable for a pump sprayer or brush
  • Oxygen bleach safe for plants & pets
  • One tub makes up to five gallons
Product Image of the Zep All-In-1 Pressure Wash Cleaner
Best for Pressure Washing
Zep All-In-1 Pressure Wash Cleaner
  • Cleans stubborn stains, mold & mildew
  • Suitable with a pressure washer
  • Suitable for a range of surfaces
Product Image of the Oil Eater Cleaner Degreaser
Best for Concrete Decks
Oil Eater Cleaner Degreaser
  • Works as a light & heavy-duty cleaner
  • Safe for most non-food surfaces
  • Non-toxic & biodegradable
Product Image of the Simple Green Oxy Solve House Cleaner
Most Versatile
Simple Green Oxy Solve House Cleaner
  • When diluted can clean up to 6,400 sq ft
  • Safe for use around kids, pets, and plants
  • Remove stubborn stain, moss & mildew
Product Image of the Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck Cleaner
Best Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaner
Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck Cleaner
  • Eco-friendly & green formula
  • Good for fences, & outdoor structures
  • 1 gallon dilutes up to 21 gallons
Product Image of the Wet & Forget Outdoor Moss, Mold, Mildew, & Algae Stain Remover Multi-Surface Cleaner, Ready to Use, 64 Ounce
Best for Algae Stains
Wet & Forget Outdoor
  • No scrubbing necessary
  • Non-acidic multi-surface cleaner
  • Results noticeable after a few hours
Product Image of the Mold Armor E-Z Deck Wash
Best for Mold
Mold Armor E-Z Deck Wash
  • Visible results within minutes
  • Spray straight from the bottle
  • Kills mold & mildew & removes stains
Product Image of the Krud Kutter Deck and Fence Cleaner
Best Value
Krud Kutter Deck and Fence Cleaner
  • 1 bottle covers up to 2,000 sq ft
  • Suitable for composite decks & fences
  • Biodegradable & non-toxic water-based
Product Image of the Zep House and Siding Pressure Wash Cleaner
Best for Vinyl
Zep House and Siding Pressure Wash Cleaner
  • Can be used on decks, houses, & siding
  • Only takes 5-10 minutes on decks
  • 1 gallon dilutes up to 20 gallons
Product Image of the Wash Safe Industries Spray and Clean
Best for Composite
Wash Safe Industries Spray and Clean
  • Deep cleans within deck’s pores
  • Remove organic stains like moss & algae
  • Safe around landscaping and pets

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we pride ourselves on providing you with comprehensive and trustworthy analysis of the best deck cleaners. Our experienced professionals conduct thorough research, hands-on testing, and evaluation of each product based on key decision-making factors, such as performance, effectiveness, and safety. We compare and rank products according to data-driven criteria, assessing their design choices and their impact on users. Through our rigorous review process, we identify the top ten deck cleaners, measuring their ability to remove dirt, grime, and stains while maintaining the integrity of your decking materials. Our in-depth findings ensure you can confidently choose the ideal deck cleaner to meet your needs and expectations.



The Best Deck Cleaners of 2024

Are you ready to take your deck from slimy and stain-covered to completely spotless? I’ve put together a list of the 10 best deck cleaners based on hours of research into dozens of products, customer reviews, and expert advice. I studied each deck cleaner’s cleaning ability, purpose, formula, and value to ensure I only recommend the best of the best.

Get cleaning with one of these superb detergents!

SaverSystem #1 Deck Wood Cleaner

Best for Cleaning Wood

This deck cleaner is so good that the company itself has named it the #1 Deck Wood Cleaner. If you have a wooden deck, I think you’ll be impressed by this.

This comes as a concentrated powder, so a little goes a long way. Simply follow the instructions to mix with water.

I love that this will treat your wood gently while also bringing out its natural beauty. So, if your wooden deck is looking subject to wear and tear, this can remove stains and rejuvenate the lovely wood back to its original state.

More good news: this is totally safe for plants, grass, and pets! So you don’t need to worry about your beloved flowers and fur babies getting sick from this product.

What can it clean, you ask? It’s made to clean dirt, grime, and the silvery color that decks tend to go after being subject to various weather elements for years.

Did You Know?

You can also use this in other areas, such as patios, sidewalks, vinyl siding, driveways, and more!

Pros

  • Suitable for a pump sprayer or brush.
  • Oxygen bleach solution, so it’s safe for plants and pets.
  • Spruces up wood back to its original beauty removes the gray color.
  • One tub makes up to five gallons.
  • Covers up to 1,000 square feet.

Cons

  • Requires a bit of elbow grease and patience to see results.

Product Specs

Deck Material Wood, vinyl, and concrete
Purpose Removes stains, dirt, grime, and greying appearance
Eco-Friendly Yes
Pressure Washer Compatibility No
Quantity 2.25 pounds — makes 5 gallons

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4.5 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
5 / 5
Environmental Impact
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

After using this product on my deck, I found that it works effectively with a small power washer, but may require more effort when using a scrub brush. This easy-to-mix cleaner doesn't have any unpleasant odors and does a fantastic job of removing dirt and old stain, although it does require some elbow grease. I appreciated the step-by-step instructions provided, but it's important to note that the stain dries quickly, making it difficult to remove from skin and clothes.

Zep All-In-1 Pressure Wash Cleaner

Best for Pressure Washing

If you have a pressure washer, choosing something that can go straight into your power tool is a good idea. This All-In-1 pressure washer cleaner from Zep is an awesome option.

It’s an all-in-1 formula, so while it works for decks, it’s also great for outdoor furniture, vehicles, siding, patios, driveways, and more surfaces. Considering how low the cost is per fluid ounce, combined with the product’s versatility, this is a very wise investment for your money.

It’s also a concentrated formula, so one gallon actually equates to 26 gallons of cleaner once you dilute it.

What can it clean? All kinds of stubborn stains, including those caused by mold, mildew, and algae. These can be tough stains to remove, so finding something that works well is always a blessing.

Although this is suitable with a pressure washer, you can apply it manually. So, if you don’t have a pressure washer, don’t veto this product yet.

Pros

  • Low cost per fluid ounce, great for folks on a budget.
  • Cleans stubborn stains, including mold and mildew.
  • Suitable with a pressure washer but can also be applied manually.
  • Suitable for a range of surfaces, including decks, cars, and driveways.
  • Works on brick, wood, stucco, and more surfaces.

Cons

  • May cause skin, eye, and breathing irritation if misused.
  • Not an eco-friendly formula.

Product Specs

Deck Material Any
Purpose Cleans and removes stubborn stains
Eco-Friendly No
Pressure Washer Compatibility Yes
Quantity 1.25 gallons per bottle

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4.5 / 5
Application Method
4.5 / 5
Safety
3.5 / 5
Environmental Impact
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Love how this product truly lives up to its promises! I've been using it for years to clean my solar panels, windows, walkways, and even my driveway – all with minimal effort. Following the simple instructions, I've noticed that it leaves no residual hard water residue like other pressure wash cleaners. This easy-to-use product definitely deserves a 5-star rating for its effectiveness and convenience!

Oil Eater Cleaner Degreaser

Best for Concrete Decks

Concrete decking can be subject to a lot of dirt, and it likes to cling to stubborn stains, too. So, if your concrete decking is covered in grease and grime, put this Oil Eater cleaner and degreaser to the test. You can also use it for your driveways and sidewalks too!

This works by dissolving grease and oils using a water-based and biodegradable formula. So you can rest easy knowing you’re protecting the environment while still busting those nasty stains away.

In fact, it’s even been approved by the USDA for basically all non-food surfaces. So, while you can’t use it on your kitchen counters, you can use it in various other places. This includes floors, asphalt, boats, siding, bathrooms, and much more.

Of course, you’ll most likely be using it to clean your decking. However, it’s also suitable for cleaning your power tools, exhaust hoods, garages, and other areas.

It works as a heavy-duty concrete cleaner or for light cleaning. Simply follow the diluting instructions on the packaging to know how best to dilute this concentrated product.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly, super low cost per fluid ounce.
  • Works as a light and heavy-duty cleaner.
  • Safe for almost all non-food surfaces.
  • Removes grease, oil, and dirt stains.
  • Non-toxic and biodegradable formula.

Cons

  • Requires a lot of scrubbing for the solution to work.
  • Some customers struggled to 100 percent remove oil stains.

Product Specs

Deck Material Asphalt and concrete
Purpose Dissolves grease and oil
Eco-Friendly Yes
Pressure Washer Compatibility Not specified — try at your own risk
Quantity 1 gallon

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4.5 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Environmental Impact
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

In my experience, this product has proven to be quite effective in tackling tough stains and grease, especially on clothes and carpets. I've used it to remove canine urine stains from expensive rugs and found it to not only remove the stain but also prevent my dog from remarking the area. The smell can be a bit strong during the cleaning process, but it dissipates once dried, leaving no lingering odor. While it may require some ventilation during use, this product has saved me from spending on professional cleaning and expensive replacements.

Simple Green Oxy Solve House Cleaner

Most Versatile

Do you want a product that can do it all? Something that can do more than just cleaning decks? Then check out the Simple Green House and Siding Cleaner.

This solution is suitable for cleaning basically any surface surrounding your house. This includes:

  • Vinyl.
  • Aluminum.
  • Brick.
  • Wood.
  • Stucco.
  • And more!

This Simple Green product is safe for you, your family, and the environment. So don’t worry about the beautiful landscaping around your home. This handy solution is both effective and gentle. It contains peroxide, which cleans the area without harsh chemicals.

You can say goodbye to stains and discoloration on all kinds of surfaces with this cleaner. In fact, it can even remove algae, mildew, and moss stains! Simply put it in your pressure washer and get to work.

Pros

  • Once diluted, it can clean up to 6,400 square feet.
  • Orally non-toxic formula — safe to use around kids, pets, and plants.
  • Removes stubborn stains, such as moss and mildew.
  • Suitable for a wide variety of surfaces.
  • Cleans with peroxide rather than harsh chemicals.
  • One gallon makes up to 21 gallons.

Cons

  • Requires some elbow grease and scrubbing on tough stains.
  • Best for light-duty cleaning.
  • Struggles on grass, algae, and other green stains.

Product Specs

Deck Material Vinyl, aluminum, brick, wood, stucco, and more
Purpose Cleans and removes stains
Eco-Friendly Yes
Pressure Washer Compatibility Yes
Quantity 1 gallon — makes up to 21 gallons

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Environmental Impact
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I recently used this product to clean my north-facing patio, which had accumulated a lot of grime on various surfaces. After applying the solution with a sponge and rinsing, I was impressed with the results, although some stubborn stains needed extra attention. On the plus side, it's safe to use around plants and animals, but I wish it was available in smaller sizes since I only used a small fraction of the one-gallon jug.

Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck Cleaner

Best Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaner

There is no need to use harsh chemicals when products as good as Simple Green are available. The EPA has approved this as a safer choice product, and it’s totally safe for the environment.

The ingredients are a mix of water, ethoxylated alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, tetrasodium glutamate diacetate, surfactants, and citric acid. There’s nothing too crazy in there that will cause you or anyone around you harm when the product is used correctly.

It’s also a super budget-friendly option. A one-gallon bottle is fairly priced but also covers up to 6,300 square feet. So, a little goes a long way.

Of course, you can use this to clean your decking, removing grime, grease, oil, and other stubborn stains. But it’s also suitable for fences and other outdoor structures like gazebos, pergolas, and more.

Plus, grease, grime, and oil aren’t the only substances it can remove. Say goodbye to algae, moss, clay, mold, mildew, and mud stains — all thanks to the power of hydrogen peroxide.

Keep In Mind

This is a pressure-washer-compatible formula, so make sure you have a pressure washer at hand.

Pros

  • Eco-friendly and green formula with a hydrogen peroxide base.
  • Suitable for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
  • Removes a range of stubborn stains such as moss, mold, and grease.
  • One gallon makes up to 21 gallons when diluted.
  • Works manually or in a pressure washer.

Cons

  • Customers had to use the product a few times for good results.
  • Not for heavy-duty cleaning.

Product Specs

Deck Material All materials
Purpose Cleans and removes stains
Eco-Friendly Yes
Pressure Washer Compatibility Yes
Quantity 1 gallon — makes up to 21 gallons

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4 / 5
Application Method
3.5 / 5
Safety
5 / 5
Environmental Impact
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

From personal experience, this product is incredibly efficient in cleaning vinyl siding and removing green algae buildup. I found it to be faster and easier compared to other methods like pressure washing. Additionally, it effectively cleans outdoor rugs and brick patios without leaving a strong scent behind.

Wet & Forget Outdoor Moss, Mold, Mildew, & Algae Stain Remover

Best for Algae Stains

Don’t let algae ruin the appearance and experience of your decking. Instead, use this cleaner to eliminate the algae and blast away the remaining stains. You’ll love that this works in only a few minutes, too.

While you can obviously use this for decking, it’s also suitable for a huge range of surfaces. Put this to the test outdoors on concrete, driveways, brick walls and paths, and upholstery. You can also use it inside on shower walls, bathtubs, kitchen and bath or shower tiles, attics, gutters, and more.

It can remove algae, but it’s also great for removing mold and mildew too. So, if these pesky substances are creeping around your home — give this a go.

Pros

  • No scrubbing necessary — requires little effort.
  • Noticeable results after a few hours.
  • Non-acidic multi-purpose cleaner.
  • Works on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces.
  • Included trigger sprayer.
  • Removes black mold, moss, mildew, and more.

Cons

  • Bottle is prone to leaking, so you must store it carefully.
  • You may have to complete a few applications for best results.

Product Specs

Deck Material Wood and composite
Purpose Kills mold, mildew, and algae
Eco-Friendly No
Pressure Washer Compatibility No
Quantity 0.5 gallon

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4 / 5
Application Method
3.5 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Environmental Impact
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I recently used this product on a family headstone that had been illegible for decades and was amazed by the instant results. After a week, with some light scrubbing, the stone looked completely revitalized. Not only did it work wonders on the headstone, but I also found it effective on fabric awnings, siding, decks, and concrete over time. The only downside is the short tubing, which I solved by transferring the product to a pump and spray container.

Mold Armor E-Z Deck Wash

Best for Mold

There aren’t many stains worse than mold. And when you want to sit and relax on the deck, whether by yourself or with friends, the appearance of mold can be off-putting.

But now you don’t need to worry about it. The Mold Armor E-Z Deck Wash can assist you in blasting that mold and its accompanying stains to the curb once and for all.

The solution is designed not only to remove the mold stains but also to kill the exterior mold and mildew. This prevents regrowth so you can relax. It will also brighten and clean your deck, so overall, your deck looks a lot less dirty than before.

As well as decking, you can use this solution on fences, composite, sealed wood, and PVC. So it’s a very versatile product to have in the garden shed.

Pros

  • Visible results within minutes.
  • No scrubbing required; simply spray on, wait, then rinse off.
  • Spray straight from the bottle for your convenience.
  • Kills mold and mildew and removes the stains.
  • Includes adaptor you can attach to garden hose.
  • Restores the natural appearance of wood.

Cons

  • Bleach-based, so it’s not eco-friendly.
  • Small nozzle means it takes a while to clean bigger decks.

Product Specs

Deck Material Wood and PVC
Purpose Kills mold, mildew, removes stains, and brightens deck
Eco-Friendly No
Pressure Washer Compatibility No
Quantity 64 ounces

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4.5 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
3.5 / 5
Environmental Impact
2 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I'm impressed with how this product made my deck look brand new with minimal scrubbing. It took a couple of applications to remove the mold and algae that had been building up for years, but the results were worth it. Just be cautious when using it as it's a bleach-based product, so protect your eyes, skin, clothes, and surrounding plants. It also worked well on my house siding, proving to be more effective than the siding wash. However, it may take up to a week to notice a significant difference and it's best to apply on a cooler, cloudy day to prevent quick evaporation.

Krud Kutter Deck and Fence Cleaner

Best Value

I have many budget-friendly options on our list, but for good measure, here’s another high-quality option. This concentrated solution covers up to 2,000 square feet on one gallon of the solution alone.

It’s made with an ingredient called Sporex, a unique cleaner that removes tough and stubborn stains. It particularly works well on wooden surfaces such as decks and fences. Watch as it works to remove bird droppings, mold, mildew, moss, tree sap, acid rain, fungus, and much more.

If you’re growing tired of how your decking looks, this is a great product to spruce it up completely. Besides wood, it also works for composite deckings.

Another factor I love about this deck cleaner is that it’s made from a water-based solution that’s non-toxic and biodegradable. So you know you’re not harming the environment when you choose this product.

Plus, it’s non-abrasive, so you won’t cause damage to your deck or fence either.

Pros

  • Budget-friendly, low cost per fluid ounce.
  • One bottle covers up to 2,000 square feet.
  • Suitable for wooden and composite deckings and fences.
  • Biodegradable and non-toxic water-based formula.
  • Removes stains from mold, algae, bird droppings, grease, and more.

Cons

  • Doesn’t kill mold and mildew, it just cleans up the stains.
  • You must have patience as it takes a while to work.

Product Specs

Deck Material Wood and composite
Purpose Removes various stains
Eco-Friendly Yes
Pressure Washer Compatibility Yes
Quantity 1 gallon

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
4.5 / 5
Environmental Impact
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

My experience with this product has been quite positive, as it effectively cleaned my previously neglected deck and fence. I applied a 50/50 mix of the solution and water, scrubbed with a brush, and rinsed off using a pressure washer, revealing the wood's original color. While it may not have been perfect for everyone, it worked well for me and proved to be a cost-effective alternative to more expensive cleaners.

Zep House and Siding Pressure Wash Cleaner

Best for Vinyl

Technically, this is a house and vinyl siding cleaner, but it’s also great for vinyl deckings. You must use this with a pressure washer, so if you don’t have one, this isn’t the right product for you.

This one-gallon bottle can be diluted and make up to 20 gallons of cleaner. Therefore, a little goes a long way! You’re saving pennies where possible to ensure you get the most for your money.

As for cleaning, check out what this product can do. Firstly, it’s great at removing dirt and mildew stains. So, if your vinyl decking has been subject to those unsightly stains, this product can help.

Next up, it can revive your vinyl decking. If you recall how your vinyl decking looked when you first got it and miss those days, this can bring it back to its original beauty.

Top Tip

Before and after use, saturate the landscape with water to ensure any product that contacts plants is diluted. Also, don’t let the product dry on the decking before you rinse it off, as this can cause staining.

Pros

  • Versatile — can be used on decks, houses, and siding.
  • Only takes 5-10 minutes to work on cleaning decks.
  • Removes dirt and mildew stains.
  • One gallon makes up to 20 gallons once diluted.
  • Low cost per fluid ounce.

Cons

  • Only suitable with a pressure washer.
  • Struggles to clean mold and mold stains.

Product Specs

Deck Material Vinyl
Purpose Removes dirt and mildew stains, general cleaning
Eco-Friendly No
Pressure Washer Compatibility Yes
Quantity 128 gallons per bottle — makes 20 gallons per bottle

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
3.5 / 5
Application Method
3 / 5
Safety
4 / 5
Environmental Impact
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.25 / 5

User Experience

From my personal experience, this product effectively removed dirt and light mildew on my house's sidings. I found that allowing it to sit for about 5-10 minutes before rinsing yielded better results. While it does cut through grime, mold, and algae, I believe there might be better alternatives out there, as suggested by professional cleaners forums.

Wash Safe Industries Spray and Clean

Best for Composite

Give your composite deck some love with this Spray and Clean solution.

This formula is created with a 5 percent solution of chlorine bleach and a mix of surfactants to deep clean your deck and remove stains. All this without the pain of scrubbing, so you can easily see the results with minimal effort. If you have stains all over your deck, this is an excellent option for you.

You can dilute this product with a 4:1 solution for general cleaning, but you can also use it without diluting. This is great for extremely stubborn stains. The fact that this can be used concentrated or diluted makes it super versatile.

Now, the alarm bells might be ringing due to the chlorine bleach, but wait. I have good news. The minimal bleach content means that it’s actually safe for landscaping. So you don’t need to worry about your beautiful grass and plants becoming damaged.

Caution

While it’s also safe around pets and people, I always recommend removing children and pets from the area. You should also wear protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and eye protection.

Pros

  • Deep cleans within the deck’s pores for maximum results.
  • Removes organic stains from deckings, such as moss and algae.
  • Very easy to use, no scrubbing required.
  • Safe around landscaping and pets — but use with caution.
  • Results visible within minutes.
  • No scrubbing required.

Cons

  • Contains 5 percent bleach — not entirely eco-friendly.
  • May leave white residue on decking.

Product Specs

Deck Material Composite
Purpose Cleans and removes organic stains
Eco-Friendly No
Pressure Washer Compatibility No
Quantity 1 gallon

Our Ratings

Cleaning Efficacy
4.5 / 5
Application Method
4 / 5
Safety
3.5 / 5
Environmental Impact
2.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I recently tried this deck cleaner on my composite deck that hadn't been cleaned in a while, and it worked wonders! I used a 2-gallon sprayer and mixed the solution slightly stronger than recommended, which made rinsing it off a bit time-consuming. The mold and mildew seemed to just disappear, leaving my deck looking brand new. However, be cautious with the strong smell and potential for damaging clothing or plants.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Award Deck Material Purpose Eco-Friendly Pressure Washer Compatibility Quantity
SaverSystem #1 Deck Wood Cleaner For Cleaning Wood Wood, vinyl, & concrete Removes stains, dirt, grime, & greying appearance Yes No 2.25 lbs — makes 5 gal.
Zep All-In-1 Pressure Wash Cleaner For Pressure Washing Any Cleans & removes stubborn stains No Yes 1.25 gal.
Oil Eater Cleaner Degreaser For Concrete Decks Asphalt & concrete Dissolves grease & oil Yes N/A 1 gallon
Simple Green Oxy Solve House Cleaner Versatile Vinyl, aluminum, brick, wood, stucco, & more Cleans & removes stains Yes Yes 1 gal. — makes 21 gal.
Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck Cleaner Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaner All materials Cleans & removes stains Yes Yes 1 gal. — makes 21 gal.
Wet & Forget Outdoor For Algae Wood and composite Kills mold, mildew, & algae No No 0.5 gal
Mold Armor E-Z Deck Wash For Mold Wood & PVC Kills mold, mildew, removes stains, brightens deck No No 64 ounces
Krud Kutter Deck and Fence Cleaner Value Wood & composite Removes various stains Yes Yes 1 gal
Zep House and Siding Pressure Wash Cleaner For Vinyl Vinyl Removes dirt & mildew stains, general cleaning No Yes 128 gal. — makes 20 gallons
Wash Safe Industries Spray and Clean For Composite Composite Cleans & removes organic stains No No 1 gal

How To Choose the Best Deck Cleaners

Even though I’ve narrowed it down to the top 10, it’s still important to consider your priorities to make sure you choose the best one for your deck.

Deck Material

The most crucial thing you must consider is your deck’s material. Decks come in a range of materials, and not every cleaner can handle each type.

Is your deck made of wood, vinyl, composite, concrete, or something else? I’ll let you know what materials each cleaner can clean so you’re not left in the dark.

Purpose

Next, consider what the purpose of the deck cleaner is. Is it just general cleaning, or does it go the extra mile? If you have mold, mildew, algae, or other stains on your deck, make sure to choose a cleaner that can eliminate these.

Eco-Friendly

Lots of people are going green with their choice of cleaners. Especially when it comes to outside cleaners, as you may want something that will be kind to the surrounding environment.

Always check the ingredients of the deck cleaner to see how natural it is. You should also check if it’s plant and pet-safe.

Not many deck cleaners have gone green or natural yet, but we have a few great recommendations if that’s important to you. To make your decision easier, we’ll give you a simple “yes” if the product is eco, or a “no” if it uses harsher chemicals.

Pressure Washer Compatibility

If you have a pressure washer, plenty of deck cleaner options will work with your beloved power tool. If you don’t have a pressure washer, make sure you’re choosing something that can be used without this power tool.

Versatility

You might want something that can clean more than just a deck. There are many options on my list that can clean other materials. In fact, some work for both indoor and outdoor materials.

On the other hand, you may want a cleaner that can do more than just clean. For example, some deck cleaners can also seal the deck, protecting the surface from dust, dirt, and other stains. They may also act as a water repellant to diminish mold, mildew, and algae growth.

Value for Money

When it comes to household products, nobody wants to waste a penny. Always check the cost per fluid ounce to get the most bang for your buck with deck cleaners.

You should also consider whether the cleaner is premixed or concentrated. Generally, concentrated cleaners go further since you can dilute a little bit of the solution with water.

Last but not least, check out if the manufacturer discloses a coverage volume. This will give you a rough idea of how far the deck cleaner solution can go so you know if you’re getting your money’s worth.


FAQs About Deck Cleaning

Can You Use Bleach To Clean Decking?

Yes, bleach is suitable for deck cleaning, and that’s why it’s used in many of the most popular products. However, it’s a good idea for the bleach to be diluted properly and effectively. So, I recommend choosing one of these bleach-based cleaners rather than straight bleach.

Will Vinegar Clean Wood Deck?

Yes — mix a 1:1 solution of water and vinegar, and it will work well to clean your deck. It can also remove mold and mildew stains.

Should I Pressure Wash My Deck?

A pressure washer is one of the most effective ways to clean your deck. The power of water alone can often be enough to spruce up the deck and remove stubborn stains.

Top Tip

Try pressure washing your deck without a cleaning solution first. You may find you don’t actually need the additional power of a cleaner.

How Do I Clean My Deck Without Chemicals?

The most effective way is purely with a pressure washer. This is how we clean our deck, and it works wonders.

You can also use eco-friendly and non-toxic cleaners like the Simple Green Oxy Solve Deck Cleaner. White vinegar is also suitable.

How Do I Make My Own Wood Deck Cleaner?

There are many recipes out there for a DIY deck cleaner. Here is one that’s easy to make and contains no harsh chemicals:

  • Two gallons of hot water.
  • Two cups of powdered oxygen bleach.
  • ¼ cup of dish soap.

Mix these and apply them to your deck with a brush.

How Do You Restore a Weathered Deck?

The best way to restore a weathered deck is to inspect it first, clean it, sand it, and repair any rotten timbers. Once done, you can stain and seal it with an appropriate product.

Can You Use Borax To Clean a Deck?

You can use Borax to clean a deck. Add it to your cleaning agents, and it not only enhances the clean, it also kills mold and mildew.


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About the Author

Beth McCallum

Beth McCallum is a freelance writer & book blogger with a degree in creative writing, journalism, and English literature. Beth firmly believes that a tidy house is a tidy mind. She is always looking for new ways to sustainably clean and tidy her house, that's kind on the environment but effective in the house, too!