Cleaning vinyl siding can be a simple process if done right! If you want your home to shine, removing dirt, grime, and mildew from your vinyl siding is crucial. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maintain curb appeal or preparing for a house sale, keeping your siding clean will make a huge difference. In this guide, we’ll show you the best ways to clean vinyl siding, introduce you to top products to help you, and explain the benefits of using the right tools. Let’s dive in!
Why Clean Vinyl Siding?
Vinyl siding is one of the most popular exterior finishes for homes. It’s durable, low maintenance, and comes in various colors. However, it’s still susceptible to dirt, grime, mildew, and mold. Regular cleaning helps:
- Maintain curb appeal: A clean exterior enhances the look of your home.
- Prevent damage: Dirt and mold can degrade the siding material over time.
- Improve air quality: Cleaning removes allergens like mildew.
- Increase property value: A well-maintained exterior adds to your home’s resale value.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Vinyl Siding
Cleaning vinyl siding is an essential part of home maintenance, ensuring that your home looks fresh and well-kept while protecting the siding from long-term damage caused by dirt, grime, and mildew. Follow these easy steps to get your vinyl siding looking as good as new!
1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mild dish soap or vinyl siding cleaner 🧼
- Bucket for mixing the cleaning solution
- Garden hose with a spray nozzle for rinsing
- Soft-bristle brush or sponge for scrubbing (avoid abrasive brushes)
- Ladder (for hard-to-reach areas) 🪜
- Protective gloves (optional, for safety)
2. Prepare Your Cleaning Solution
For general cleaning, you can mix your own solution using common household ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe:
- Mild Dish Soap Solution: Mix 1/4 cup of dish soap with 1 gallon of warm water.
- For mildew or tougher stains: Add 1 cup of white vinegar to the solution or use a store-bought vinyl cleaner like Krud Kutter.
If you prefer a ready-made cleaner, products like Zep Vinyl Siding Cleaner or Mildew & Mold Remover by RMR-86 work well for heavy-duty cleaning.
3. Start from the Bottom
When cleaning, always begin at the bottom of the siding and work your way up. Why? This helps prevent dirty water from running over already cleaned sections, which could leave streaks.
Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to gently scrub the vinyl siding, focusing on areas with noticeable dirt or grime buildup.
4. Rinse with Water
Once you’ve scrubbed a section of your siding, rinse the area thoroughly with a garden hose. Start from the top and spray downwards to ensure that any soap or cleaning solution is washed away. Rinsing ensures you don’t leave any residue that could dry and cause streaks or spots.
5. Tackle Stubborn Stains
For tougher stains like mildew, mold, or hard water marks, you might need a more potent cleaner. Here’s what you can do:
- Mildew or Mold: Use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Spray directly on the affected area and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then scrub gently.
- Hard Water Stains: Use a store-bought cleaner specifically designed for water stain removal, like Krud Kutter or Zep Vinyl Cleaner. Apply it to the stains and scrub until they lift away.
Pro Tip: If you’re using a pressure washer, be careful not to set it too high. Use a gentle spray to avoid damaging the vinyl.
6. Clean Around Windows & Doors
Don’t forget to clean around your windows and doors! These areas often collect dust, spider webs, and grime. Use a small brush or microfiber cloth to gently wipe these areas after you’ve washed the main siding.
7. Dry the Siding (Optional)
While most of the time, vinyl siding will air dry on its own, you can use a clean towel to wipe down the siding if you want to avoid water spots or streaks. This is especially helpful in sunny conditions when water can dry quickly and leave residue behind.
8. Inspect the Siding
After cleaning, step back and inspect the siding to make sure you didn’t miss any spots. Check the corners, under windows, and areas with more direct exposure to the elements. If you find any missed spots, simply repeat the cleaning and rinsing process.
9. Regular Maintenance
For best results, clean your vinyl siding at least once a year. If you live in a humid area or have frequent rain, you may need to clean it more often to prevent mildew buildup. Regular maintenance will help keep your vinyl siding looking new and extend its lifespan.
Bonus Tips
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners, as they can damage the vinyl or fade the color.
- Pressure Washer Use: If you’re using a pressure washer, set the pressure to low or medium to avoid damaging the siding. Keep the nozzle at least 12-18 inches away from the surface.
- Use a Soft Brush: Avoid stiff bristle brushes or scrubbing pads that could scratch or damage the siding.
Best Products to Clean Vinyl Siding
Now that you know how to clean your vinyl siding, let’s explore some of the top products that will make your job easier. Below are 5 highly rated vinyl siding cleaners that offer great results:
1. Krud Kutter Exterior Siding Cleaner
Krud Kutter Exterior Siding Cleaner is a heavy-duty cleaner designed to tackle tough stains on vinyl siding. It’s biodegradable and safe to use on all types of vinyl.
Pros:
- Powerful formula for removing mold, mildew, and stains.
- Safe for use on other surfaces like decks and fences.
- Environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- Might require multiple applications for tough stains.
Price: $10 – $15 for a 32 oz bottle
2. Mildew & Mold Remover by RMR-86
RMR-86 Mildew & Mold Remover is a fast-acting formula that is perfect for vinyl siding with mildew or mold growth.
Pros:
- Instant mold and mildew removal.
- Great for tough stains.
- Works on multiple surfaces including vinyl, wood, and concrete.
Cons:
- Strong chemical smell (ensure proper ventilation).
Price: $20 – $25 for a 32 oz bottle
3. Wet & Forget Outdoor Cleaner
Wet & Forget Outdoor Cleaner is a long-lasting solution that requires no scrubbing. Just spray it on and let it do the work over time.
Pros:
- No scrubbing required.
- Works on a variety of outdoor surfaces.
- Easy application.
Cons:
- Takes several weeks to show full results.
Price: $25 – $30 for 1 gallon
4. Zep Heavy Duty Vinyl Siding Cleaner
Zep Vinyl Siding Cleaner is another excellent product for tough stains and grime. It’s designed for use on vinyl, aluminum, and other exterior surfaces.
Pros:
- Cuts through tough grime quickly.
- Can be used with a pressure washer for faster results.
- Safe for plants and grass when used correctly.
Cons:
- Stronger chemical odor compared to other products.
Price: $15 – $20 for a 32 oz bottle
5. Bliss Clean & Simple Vinyl Siding Cleaner
Bliss Clean & Simple is an eco-friendly cleaner that’s perfect for those who prefer environmentally safe products. It’s non-toxic and biodegradable.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic.
- Works on all types of vinyl siding.
- Safe for pets and children.
Cons:
- May require more scrubbing for stubborn stains.
Price: $18 – $22 for a 32 oz bottle
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Best Use Case | Pros | Cons | Price Range | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Krud Kutter Exterior Siding Cleaner | Tough stains, mildew, and mold removal | Biodegradable, multi-surface use | May require multiple applications | $10 – $15 for 32 oz | Powerful formula, safe for all surfaces |
| RMR-86 Mildew & Mold Remover | Mold & mildew removal | Fast-acting, works on all surfaces | Strong chemical smell | $20 – $25 for 32 oz | Instant results, versatile |
| Wet & Forget Outdoor Cleaner | Stubborn stains, no scrubbing needed | No scrubbing, long-lasting | Takes weeks to show results | $25 – $30 for 1 gallon | Simple application, works on many surfaces |
| Zep Vinyl Siding Cleaner | Heavy grime, pressure washer use | Fast results, safe for plants | Strong odor | $15 – $20 for 32 oz | Pressure washer compatible |
| Bliss Clean & Simple Vinyl Cleaner | Eco-conscious consumers | Non-toxic, pet-safe | Requires more scrubbing | $18 – $22 for 32 oz | Eco-friendly, biodegradable |
Why These Products Are Beneficial 🏅
Using the right product to clean your vinyl siding offers several benefits:
- Time-saving: Products like Wet & Forget and RMR-86 provide quick results, reducing your cleaning time.
- Thorough cleaning: High-quality cleaners like Krud Kutter and Zep work effectively to remove tough stains and mildew.
- Eco-friendly options: If you prefer a greener alternative, Bliss Clean & Simple is the best option without compromising on performance.
Where to Buy & How Much They Cost 🛒
You can find these vinyl siding cleaners at major retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart. Many of these products offer discounts when purchased in bulk or on sale, so keep an eye out for seasonal promotions.
For direct purchases, check the following links:
- Krud Kutter Siding Cleaner on Amazon
- RMR-86 Mildew Remover on Amazon
- Wet & Forget Outdoor Cleaner on Amazon
- Zep Vinyl Siding Cleaner on Walmart
- Bliss Clean & Simple Cleaner on Bliss Clean’s Official Site
FAQs ❓
- How often should I clean my vinyl siding?
- You should clean your vinyl siding at least once a year, especially if you live in a humid area where mildew can accumulate.
- Can I use a pressure washer to clean vinyl siding?
- Yes, but be cautious with the pressure. Use a low-pressure setting to avoid damaging the vinyl. Many cleaners, like Zep, are designed for pressure washer use.
- What is the best time of year to clean vinyl siding?
- Spring or fall is ideal when the weather is mild. Avoid cleaning during extremely hot or cold conditions.
- Will cleaning damage my vinyl siding?
- No, as long as you use the right cleaners and techniques, cleaning will not damage your vinyl siding. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
- How can I remove tough mildew stains?
- Use a cleaner like RMR-86 for quick and effective mildew removal. Apply it directly to the affected area, wait for a few minutes, and scrub gently.
