The best way to clean your deck is to start by sweeping away any loose debris using a broom or hose. Then mix warm soapy water or a mild deck cleaner in a bucket and gently scrub the deck surface with a soft-bristle brush, moving along the grain of the wood or composite decking. Rinse everything well with clean water. Avoid using too much pressure if you’re using a pressure washer or power washer, as high settings can scratch or damage the deck boards. Always rinse and let the deck fully dry before walking on it or applying any stain.

Yes, you can use a pressure washer on a wooden deck, but do it carefully. Keep the wand about a foot from the top surface, and use a low-pressure setting to avoid removing too much wood or leaving marks. It’s best to begin by testing a small area first. After pressure washing, wait until the wet wood completely dries before sanding or staining. This helps your deck maintain a smooth finish and ensures the stain sticks properly.

Use deck cleaning solutions made for your type of decking. For a wood deck, mild soap, oxygen bleach, or a cleaner made for outdoor wood are great options. For a composite deck, use a cleaner made for composite decking materials. Avoid harsh detergents or bleach unless the label says it’s safe for decks. Always wear gloves, follow the instructions on the bottle, and keep children, pets, and plants away until you’re done rinsing.

To remove mold, mildew, and stains, mix oxygen bleach or a deck-safe cleaner with warm water. Apply the mixture using a sprayer or mop, and let it sit for several minutes to loosen the grime. Then gently scrub with a soft-bristle brush or broom. Rinse thoroughly with a hose or pressure washer on low pressure. This will brighten your deck surface and remove most discoloration or dirt without causing harm.

You can clean your deck yourself if you have the right cleaning products, tools, and a few hours to spare. However, if your deck boards are old, stained, or you’re unsure about using a pressure washer, hiring a professional can help protect your wood and save time. Professionals know how to clean, rinse, and wash decks safely without causing damage or uneven cleaning.

After washing your deck, always let it dry completely before staining. This usually takes 24–48 hours, depending on the weather and how much water was used during cleaning. Applying stain on wet wood can trap moisture, leading to mold, peeling, or uneven color. Make sure the surface feels dry and smooth before applying a fresh layer of stain.

A wooden deck can handle deeper scrubbing and sometimes light sanding, but a composite deck needs gentler care. Use warm soapy water or a composite-safe deck cleaner, and gently scrub the boards with a soft-bristle brush. Avoid bleach, harsh detergents, or strong pressure washing, which can harm the materials. Both types should be rinsed and allowed to dry before using again.

Most decks need cleaning once a year, but decks under trees or with heavy foot traffic may need it twice a year. Regular sweeping, rinsing, and spot washing help keep dirt, grime, and mildew from building up. Routine care keeps your deck surface in good shape and extends the life of your deck boards, paint, or stain. A quick wash with warm water and a soft-bristle brush can make a big difference in your deck’s appearance and performance.