Dirt can be washed from vinyl siding with muscle power and ordinary household detergents such as Mr. Clean. Follow directions on the container for diluting the cleaner (for Mr. Clean, use 1/4 cup detergent in 1 gallon of water).
The best vinyl siding cleaning solution uses gentle products such as dish soap and water, or vinegar and water. Or, you can purchase a commercial vinyl siding cleaner to do the job. Apply the solution and clean the siding using a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth, then rinse off with a spray hose.
DO NOT use All-Purpose or Multi-Purpose cleaners, detergents, abrasive cleaners or “mop and shine” type products (such as Bleach, Pine-Sol, Clorox Soft Scrub, Fabuloso, Rejuvenate, Mop & Glo, Mr. Clean, Murphy's Oil Soap and similar, unapproved cleaners), as they will dull the finish and sheen of the flooring material.
Insecticides, herbicides, and fertilizers can potentially cause discoloration to your vinyl siding as well. Commonly used household maintenance products like caulking, driveway sealant, tar, motor oil and paint can all potentially damage your vinyl siding.
Magic Eraser works great on vinyl siding. We use it all the time. Takes the scuffs off vinyl siding from lawn mowers etc. Also works well on taking off fresh stain on vinyl during trim work when staining decks...
In general, though, it is best to have siding cleaned by an experienced pressure-washer operator who has the special equipment and skills needed. Dirt can be washed from vinyl siding with muscle power and ordinary household detergents such as Mr. Clean.
One such product that works well on scuff marks is the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, generally available wherever cleaning products are sold. However, a Magic Eraser can remove the finish from some types of floors, so be sure to test it in a small hidden area first.
Items like steel wool, wire brushes and paint scarper can leave permanent scratches, discoloration and even puncture wounds in your vinyl siding and should be avoided when trying to clean a home's exterior.
Homemade Cleaning Solutions
This will help you remove dirt and grime without scratching or damaging the actual siding. Some good cleaning solutions include: Mix 70 percent water and 30 percent white vinegar together to make a good all-purpose cleaner that's easy on vinyl.
We recommend cleaning your siding once a year to avoid build up and keep it looking its best. CertainTeed siding products are easy to clean and easy to upkeep. Check out the High-to-Low Maintenance Makeover and learn more about the benefits of low-maintenance.
MULTI-SURFACE CLEANER: GREAT FOR KITCHENS (A RINSE IS REQUIRED FOR SURFACES IN DIRECT CONTACT WITH FOOD. NOT FOR USE ON FOOD CONTACT SURFACES INCLUDING DISHES, GLASSWARE, COOKWARE AND UTENSILS), BATHROOMS, AND OTHER TOUGH JOBS. CUTS GREASE.
Using natural substances like vinegar or baking soda can an effective, gentler cleaning method. In addition, removing stains from vinyl tile, planks or sheet vinyl flooring this way is more budget friendly and safer for pets. Baking soda is a natural method that avoids harming the finish.
Can you use Dawn to clean vinyl siding? As long as you dilute this dishwashing detergent in warm water, you can use it to clean your siding. Dawn and similar dishwashing soaps are able to eliminate greasy stains, dirt and other debris without causing damage to your siding.
Water And Vinegar Solution + Some Elbow Grease. 30% white vinegar mixed with 70% water, makes a great all-purpose vinyl siding cleaner that will remove light mold and mildew stains. If your mold is not budging a stronger cleaning solution might be needed.
Common household ingredients or products such as vinegar, dish soap, and bleach can be used for vinyl siding oxidation removal. To create a vinegar cleaning solution: mix 5 cups of vinegar with 1 gallon of water.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Steer clear of using harsh cleaners such as paint thinner, nail polish remover, spot removers, and paint remover on vinyl siding. Beware of Chlorine Bleach and Furniture Cleaner: Straight chlorine bleach and furniture cleaner can also damage vinyl siding, so it's best to avoid these.
Our Top Picks:
Krud Kutter House & Siding Pressure Washer Concentrate – $15.98 per Gallon. Mold Armor E-Z House Wash – $15.97 per gallon. Simple Green House & Siding Cleaner Pressure Washer Concentrate– $23.99 per gallon. Wet & Forget Outdoor Moss, Mold, Mildew & Algae Stain Remover – $20-$30 per gallon.
Vinyl siding can withstand a powerful gas pressure washer (2,500-3,000 psi). Aluminum, stucco or soft-grain wood homes will do better with a less powerful washer (about 1,200-1,500 psi). Determine whether you will rent or buy your machine.
Vinyl siding will generally last about 30 to 40 years with semi-frequent cleaning and minor repairs. Over time, direct sunlight can cause the vinyl siding to fade, stiffen, and crack, so it's a good idea to paint the vinyl siding to protect it from UV radiation.
Warping and buckling are both problems associated with vinyl siding, these issues only occur when the siding is not installed correctly. Vinyl siding expands and contracts as the outside temperature changes. In the summer, when temperatures are high, vinyl expands.
Don't Use Them On Your Car
Or any other delicate surface, for that matter, like silverware, glass, or metal surfaces. Dry erasers have the abrasiveness of a 3000 grit sandpaper – very fine, but can still mar shiny surfaces – like your stainless steel appliances!
Magic Eraser - This can help remove a lot of dirt and marks on your vinyl, but it comes with a cost.
Use a Magic Eraser to Clean Vinyl Siding
No need to rent or buy an expensive pressure washer, clean the vinyl siding of your house with a Magic Eraser. Just wet, squeeze and erase! The eraser will remove pollen, dirt, water marks and other grime. Your house will look like new, and it's all thanks to one little sponge!