Decks are a popular outdoor feature of many homes, providing a space for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying the sunshine. But over time, decks can accumulate dirt, grime, and even mold and mildew, making them less inviting to use.
Store-bought deck cleaners can be effective, but they often come with harsh chemicals and toxins that can harm the environment, plants, and animals. The good news is that you can make your own deck cleaner using simple, natural ingredients that can save you money and provide a customized solution to your deck cleaning needs.
The Benefits of Making Your Own Deck Cleaner and How to Do It
Homemade deck cleaners come with several benefits compared to store-bought versions. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making your own deck cleaner:
- Cost-effective: Homemade cleaners are often more affordable than their commercial counterparts, meaning you can save money while achieving the same results.
- Customizable: You can adjust the recipe based on your specific cleaning needs, including the type of wood, the level of dirt build-up, and more.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals and toxins that can damage your deck and harm the environment. Homemade solutions utilize natural, non-toxic ingredients.
- Reduce waste: By making your own deck cleaner, you also reduce packaging waste associated with commercial cleaners. Plus, many homemade ingredients can be found in reusable containers.
Ready to make your own deck cleaner? Follow these simple steps:
- Gather your ingredients. Depending on the recipe you choose, you’ll likely need things like white vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and essential oils.
- Combine your ingredients. Follow the recipe instructions to mix your solution in a bucket or spray bottle.
- Apply your cleaner. Use a scrub brush or pressure washer to apply your solution to your deck, working in small sections at a time.
- Rinse and dry. After scrubbing, rinse off your deck with a hose or pressure washer. Then, let your deck dry completely before walking on it or replacing furniture.
Remember to always wear protective gear, like gloves and goggles, when working with cleaning solutions. And, be sure to test your solution in a small, inconspicuous area before applying it all over your deck to avoid any damage or discoloration.
DIY Deck Cleaner: 5 Effective and Easy-to-Make Recipes
Cleaning your deck doesn’t have to be expensive or harmful to the environment. By making your own deck cleaner, you can save money and customize the solution to suit your specific cleaning needs.
Plus, many store-bought cleaners contain harsh chemicals and toxins that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Here are five easy-to-make and effective DIY deck cleaner recipes:
1. How to Make a Homemade Deck Cleaner Using Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural and cost-effective cleaning solution that can be used to eliminate mold, mildew, and stains on your deck. To make this DIY cleaner, mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply to your deck with a mop or spray bottle.
For tougher stains and jobs, make a stronger solution by using two parts vinegar to one part water. However, avoid using vinegar on some wood types like mahogany and redwood.
2. Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaning Solution Recipes You Can Try Today
Support the environment by using these eco-friendly cleaning solutions made with natural ingredients. For example, you can mix a gallon of warm water with a cup of baking soda and a teaspoon of dish soap to create a powerful cleaning solution.
You can also use lemon or tea tree oil as an added disinfectant and scent. These recipes are not only safe for plants, animals, and waterways but can also be used inside the house as a chemical-free cleaning alternative.
3. Discover the Power of Baking Soda with These Homemade Deck Cleaning Recipes
Baking soda is a versatile cleaning ingredient that can be used to clean your deck. To create a baking soda-based cleaner, mix one part baking soda with two parts water to make a paste.
Apply the paste to the stains on your deck and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with water. You can also make a simple baking soda spray by mixing a tablespoon of baking soda with a quart of warm water and a drop of dish soap. Add lemon for a fresh scent and added cleaning power.
4. Say Goodbye to Stains: Effective Deck Cleaning Recipes Using Oxygen Bleach
Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is a less harsh but still effective alternative that doesn’t damage your deck’s wood surface. To make an oxygen bleach solution, mix the powder with warm water according to the package instructions.
Use gloves and protective eyewear when working with oxygen bleach, and avoid any plants or trees surrounding your deck. This powerful cleaner is great for removing stains caused by dirt, mold, and mildew.
5. Get Rid of Mold and Mildew with These Homemade Deck Cleaner Solutions
Mold and mildew can easily grow on damp and shaded decks. To remove fungus, use hydrogen peroxide, which is a natural and effective solution that doesn’t damage wood surfaces.
Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda and dish soap for added cleaning and disinfecting power. You can also add your favorite essential oils, such as tea tree oil, lemon oil, or lavender oil, to enhance the cleaning solution’s scent and disinfectant properties. Regularly cleaning and drying your deck can prevent mold and mildew growth.
With these easy-to-make and effective DIY deck cleaner recipes, you can save money and protect your deck from harmful chemicals. Regularly cleaning your deck can also help prolong its lifespan and enhance its appearance. Give these recipes a try today!
How to Use Your Vinegar Homemade Deck Cleaner
Vinegar is a versatile and cost-effective cleaning solution for your deck. Here’s how to make a vinegar-based deck cleaner:
- Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. For example, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of white vinegar.
- You can add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture and shake well.
- Spray the solution on your deck and let it sit for five to ten minutes.
- Use a brush or a broom to scrub any stubborn spots or stains.
- Rinse the deck with water, preferably using a pressure washer to get rid of the remaining dirt and grime.
Note that vinegar should not be used on mahogany or redwood decks because it may cause discoloration.
Regularly using a vinegar-based deck cleaner is an effective way to prevent any future buildup and maintain the overall cleanliness of your deck.
Eco-Friendly Deck Cleaning Solution Recipes You Can Try Today
If you want to support the environment and avoid using harsh chemicals in your deck cleaner, consider trying these eco-friendly solutions.
Lemon and Baking Soda Deck Cleaner
Combine juice from one lemon and 1/2 cup of baking soda in a bowl to create a paste. Apply this paste to your deck and scrub with a brush. Rinse off with water and dry.
Borax and Water Deck Cleaner
Combine 1 cup of borax and 1 gallon of hot water in a bucket. Stir until the borax dissolves. Apply this solution to your deck and scrub with a brush. Rinse off with water and dry.
Citrus and Salt Deck Cleaner
Combine 1/2 cup of citrus juice (like lemon or grapefruit) and 1/2 cup of salt in a bowl. Apply this mixture to stains on your deck and scrub with a brush. Rinse off with water and dry.
Remember to safely dispose of any leftover cleaning solutions to avoid harming the environment.
Discover the Power of Baking Soda with These Homemade Deck Cleaning Recipes
Baking soda is a versatile ingredient that can help you clean your outdoor surfaces, including your deck. By using baking soda, you’ll be able to remove stains and grime without harming the wood, and it’s a safe and natural alternative to store-bought cleaners.
Baking Soda and Lemon Recipe
Mix equal parts of baking soda and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of lemon juice for a fresh scent and extra cleaning power. Spray the solution onto your deck and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Scrub the deck with a brush and rinse it off with a hose.
Baking Soda Paste Recipe
If your deck has tough stains that won’t come off with the spray solution, use a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda and water until it forms a thick paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub the area with a brush and rinse it off with a hose.
You can also add a few drops of lemon juice to the paste for an extra cleaning boost and a fresh scent.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Recipe
If your deck has stubborn stains and discolorations, you can use a baking soda and vinegar solution. Mix one cup of baking soda and one cup of white vinegar in a bowl. The mixture will fizz, so mix it slowly. Apply the solution to your deck and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Scrub the deck with a brush and rinse it off with a hose.
Remember to always spot test your homemade cleaner recipes on a small, inconspicuous area of your deck before applying it to the entire surface.
With these homemade deck cleaning recipes that include baking soda, you’ll be able to restore your deck’s beauty while avoiding harsh chemicals. Plus, baking soda is a household staple that you probably already have in your pantry.
Say Goodbye to Stains: Effective Deck Cleaning Recipes Using Oxygen Bleach
If you have tough stains caused by dirt, mold, and mildew on your deck, oxygen bleach is a less harsh, but still effective, alternative to chlorine bleach. Here are some homemade deck cleaner recipes using oxygen bleach that you can try:
Recipe 1: Oxygen Bleach and Warm Water
Mix 1 cup of oxygen bleach powder with 2 gallons of warm water to create a simple and effective deck cleaning solution. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the solution onto the stained areas of your deck. Allow the solution to sit for about 15-20 minutes, then rinse with a garden hose.
Recipe 2: Oxygen Bleach, Baking Soda, and Warm Water
For additional cleaning power, you can mix 1 cup of oxygen bleach powder with 1 cup of baking soda and 2 gallons of warm water. Apply the solution with a stiff-bristled brush, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse with a garden hose.
Note that when working with oxygen bleach, it’s important to wear gloves and protective eyewear to avoid skin irritation and eye damage.
Get Rid of Mold and Mildew with These Homemade Deck Cleaner Solutions
Mold and mildew can be a problem for decks that are damp and shaded. But don’t worry, with these homemade solutions, you can eliminate fungus without damaging your wood surfaces.
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
To get rid of mold and mildew, mix 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1 cup of warm water. Apply the solution to the affected areas and let it sit for 10 minutes. Scrub with a stiff brush and rinse with water. For tougher stains, add 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of dish soap to the solution.
Borax Solution
Mix 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water. Apply the solution to the mold or mildew and scrub with a brush. Rinse with water. Note that borax is toxic to plants, so avoid contact with any foliage surrounding your deck.
Vinegar Solution
For a simple and natural cleaning solution, mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the mold or mildew and let it sit for 30 minutes. Scrub with a brush and rinse with water.
Regularly cleaning and drying your deck can prevent mold and mildew growth in the first place. Use these homemade solutions to keep your deck looking great all year round.
How to Clean Your Deck with Simple Household Ingredients
Not everyone wants to spend money on special cleaners or DIY their own deck cleaning solution. Luckily, you can still effectively clean your deck using simple household items.
- White vinegar: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to eliminate dirt and stains.
- Dish soap: Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water for a simple and effective cleaning solution.
- Baking soda: Create a paste using baking soda and water to tackle tough stains.
For deeper cleaning in hard-to-reach areas, a pressure washer can be used. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and be careful not to damage the wood surface.
With these simple and affordable household ingredients, you can still achieve a clean and beautiful deck without breaking the bank.
Now Go Clean Your Deck!
By making your own deck cleaner, you can save money, avoid harsh chemicals, and clean your deck using natural and eco-friendly ingredients. These homemade cleaning solutions are easy to make and can be customized to meet your specific deck cleaning needs.
Whether you use vinegar, baking soda, essential oils, or oxygen bleach, you can achieve a clean and well-maintained deck without causing harm to the environment or your family’s health.