Your deck is one of the most enjoyed parts of your home—until dirt, mildew, and seasonal debris start to take over. Whether it’s made of wood or composite, regular cleaning is essential for maintaining your deck’s appearance, safety, and longevity. The good news? You don’t need fancy tools or chemicals to get the job done—you just need the right method.
This guide covers the tools you need, step-by-step instructions, and mistakes to avoid when cleaning your deck, both wood and composite.
How Often Should You Clean Your Deck?
Most decks should be cleaned at least twice a year—once in spring and once in fall. If your deck sees heavy use or is exposed to lots of rain, trees, or dust, you may need to clean it more often.
Here are a few signs your deck is due for a cleaning:
- A slippery or slimy surface
- Discolouration from dirt or algae
- Accumulated debris in corners or between boards
Cleaning regularly not only keeps your outdoor space looking sharp, it also helps prevent long-term damage that could lead to more serious issues. If you’re noticing cracks, soft spots, or splintering, these could be signs you need a new deck.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Broom or leaf blower
- Garden hose or pressure washer (on a low setting)
- Bucket with warm water
- Deck cleaner (choose one rated for wood or composite)
- Stiff-bristle brush or long-handled scrub brush
- Optional: oxygen bleach or white vinegar (for DIY solutions)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Deck
1. Remove Furniture and Debris
Start by clearing everything off the deck—furniture, planters, rugs, and accessories. Sweep or blow away any loose debris, leaves, and dirt that may have accumulated.
2. Rinse the Surface
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle or a pressure washer on a low setting to rinse the deck. This will loosen surface dirt and reveal any problem areas.
⚠️ Avoid high pressure on soft wood or composite decking, as it can damage the surface.
3. Apply the Right Cleaner
Choose a cleaner based on your deck type:
- Wood decks: Use a wood-safe deck cleaner or a homemade mix of warm water and oxygen bleach.
- Composite decks: Use a cleaner specifically formulated for composite materials. These products help remove grime without harming the surface finish.
Composite materials are designed to be lower maintenance, but they still benefit from routine cleaning. If you’re using composite decking, you may want to read more about sustainable composite decking benefits to understand how proper care supports its longevity.
Apply the cleaner evenly, following the product instructions for dwell time.
4. Scrub the Deck Surface
Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub the surface, working in sections. Focus on areas with visible stains, mildew, or heavy dirt buildup. Don’t forget corners and between boards.
5. Rinse Thoroughly and Let It Dry
After scrubbing, rinse the deck thoroughly with your hose to remove any remaining cleaner. Let the deck dry completely—this may take 24–48 hours, depending on the weather.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good intentions, many homeowners make cleaning mistakes that can shorten their deck’s lifespan. Here are a few to steer clear of:
- Using bleach on composite decking – It can cause fading and damage
- Power washing with too much pressure – This can etch or gouge the surface
- Skipping the scrub – Rinsing alone won’t lift embedded dirt or mildew
- Not rinsing off cleaners – Residue can lead to staining or slipperiness
- Cleaning too infrequently – Waiting until the deck looks bad means dirt has already done damage
Extra Tips for Long-Term Deck Maintenance
Cleaning is just one part of keeping your deck in top condition. You can extend the life of your deck by:
- Sealing or staining wood decks annually to prevent moisture damage
- Using outdoor rugs that don’t trap moisture
- Trimming back trees and plants to reduce debris
- Inspecting and tightening fasteners regularly
For a full overview of best practices beyond cleaning, take a look at our guide on how to maintain a deck.
Conclusion
A clean deck doesn’t just look better—it performs better, too. With a simple cleaning routine and the right supplies, you can keep your deck safe, beautiful, and built to last. Whether you’re working with classic wood or modern composite materials, following these steps a couple of times a year makes all the difference.
Want help maintaining or upgrading your outdoor space? Econo Decks builds and cares for decks that stand the test of time—reach out for a quote or check out more expert tips on our blog.
