How to Soft Wash a House: A Comprehensive Guide

Keeping the exterior of your house clean is essential for maintaining its curb appeal and structural integrity. While pressure washing is a common method, it can sometimes be too harsh for delicate surfaces. Soft washing is a gentler, yet highly effective cleaning technique that uses low-pressure water and specialized cleaning solutions to remove dirt, mold, mildew, and algae. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps of soft washing your house.

Step 1: Gather Your Equipment

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary equipment:

Soft wash system or a pressure washer with a soft wash nozzle
Biodegradable cleaning solution
Garden hose
Protective gear (gloves, goggles, and long-sleeved clothing)
Ladder (if needed for high areas)

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Start by preparing the area around your house:

Close all windows and doors to prevent water from getting inside.
Cover any electrical outlets and outdoor fixtures with plastic bags.
Move outdoor furniture, potted plants, and other items away from the house.
Wet down plants and landscaping near the house to protect them from the cleaning solution.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Solution

Once you have your equipment and the area is prepared, it’s time to apply the cleaning solution:

Mix the biodegradable cleaning solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Using your soft wash system or pressure washer with a soft wash nozzle, apply the solution to the exterior surfaces of your house, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes to break down dirt, mold, and mildew. Avoid letting it dry on the surface.

Step 4: Rinse the Surfaces

After the cleaning solution has had time to work, it’s time to rinse it off:

Using a garden hose or your soft wash system, rinse the exterior surfaces thoroughly, starting from the top and working your way down. This prevents streaking and ensures all the cleaning solution is removed.
Be sure to rinse any plants and landscaping again to remove any cleaning solution that may have splashed onto them.

Step 5: Inspect and Repeat if Necessary

Once you have rinsed the house, inspect the surfaces to ensure all dirt, mold, and mildew have been removed:

If some areas still appear dirty, reapply the cleaning solution and rinse again.
For stubborn stains, you may need to gently scrub the area with a soft brush before rinsing.