DIY

Learn how to clean vinyl siding to keep your home looking sharp year-round

Vinyl siding is a popular exterior choice for good reason—it’s durable, affordable, and low maintenance. But over time, even the toughest siding can collect dirt, mildew, and stains, especially after a wet or windy season in New England. The good news? Keeping your siding clean is easy with the right approach.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean vinyl siding properly, using tools and products you likely already have at home. With a little effort and know-how, your siding can look as good as the day it was installed.

Want more information about your siding, or thinking about replacing worn siding at a lower cost? Call Builders Surplus at 866-739-1636 or contact us to explore our durable, affordable vinyl siding options.

Why Cleaning Vinyl Siding Matters

While vinyl siding doesn’t require painting or sealing like wood, it still needs occasional cleaning to stay in top shape. Regular maintenance helps:

• Extend the life of your siding 
• Prevent buildup of mold, mildew, and algae 
• Maintain your home’s curb appeal 
• Protect your investment 

Ideally, you should clean your vinyl siding once or twice a year, typically in spring and/or fall when the weather is mild.

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following:

• Garden hose with a spray nozzle 
• Soft-bristle brush or long-handled brush 
• Bucket 
• Mild detergent (like dish soap or laundry detergent) 
• White vinegar (for mildew) 
• Oxygen bleach (for heavy stains) 
• Optional: Pressure washer (on a low setting) 

Avoid abrasive tools, harsh cleaners, or anything containing undiluted chlorine bleach, as these can damage your siding or nearby landscaping.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Vinyl Siding by Hand

Here’s a look at how to clean your vinyl siding and freshen up your home’s exterior.

1. Rinse the Siding
   Start by spraying down your siding with a hose to remove loose dirt and dust.
2. Mix Your Cleaning Solution
   In a bucket, combine:

• 1/3 cup of laundry detergent 
• 2/3 cup of household cleaner (like Spic and Span) 
• 1 quart of bleach (optional for heavy mildew) 
• 1 gallon of water 

For a natural option, use a mix of 70% water and 30% white vinegar to tackle mildew and algae.

3. Scrub from Bottom to Top
   Dip your brush into the solution and scrub the siding gently. Always work from the bottom up to avoid streaking.
4. Rinse Thoroughly
   Once you’ve scrubbed a section, rinse it with clean water from top to bottom to remove any soap residue.
5. Spot Treat Stubborn Stains
   Use a stronger cleaner like oxygen bleach diluted in water for tough stains like rust or pollen. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Can You Use a Pressure Washer?

Yes, but with caution. Pressure washers can save time but must be used carefully to avoid damaging your siding or forcing water behind panels.

Tips for safe use:

• Use a wide spray nozzle and keep the pressure low (1,300–1,600 PSI) 
• Hold the wand at eye level and aim straight at the siding—not upwards 
• Never spray under laps or around windows and doors without sealing them first 

If you’re unsure, test on a small, hidden area first.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Vinyl Siding

• Abrasive cleaners or wire brushes – These can scratch the surface 
• Straight bleach – It can discolor your siding and harm plants 
• Ammonia-based products – These can react with vinyl and cause damage 
• Hot water – Can warp siding or affect the seal between panels 

Stick with mild, siding-safe solutions and gentle tools for the best results.

Seasonal Cleaning Tips

Spring:
Clean away the grime left from winter storms and snow. Focus on the north side of the home where mildew tends to accumulate due to low sunlight exposure.

Fall:
Remove pollen, dust, and bird droppings before winter. It’s also a good time to inspect for damage or warping that should be addressed before snow hits.

Pro tip: Pair your siding cleaning with gutter maintenance and a roof inspection for a full exterior checkup.

Troubleshooting Common Vinyl Siding Cleaning Issues

Problem: Streaks after rinsing
Solution: You may have rinsed from the top down before scrubbing. Always scrub from bottom to top, and rinse top to bottom to avoid soap runoff streaking the clean areas.

Problem: Mildew keeps returning
Solution: Check for drainage or moisture issues. Trim back nearby trees or bushes to allow better airflow and sunlight exposure to problem areas.

Problem: Discoloration after cleaning
Solution: This may indicate sun damage or aging rather than dirt. In that case, consider replacing faded sections with affordable new siding from Builders Surplus to match your home’s look.

When Cleaning Isn’t Enough: Time for New Siding?

Sometimes, no amount of cleaning will restore faded, cracked, or warped siding. If your vinyl siding is over 20 years old or showing signs of wear, it may be time to replace it.

At Builders Surplus, we carry affordable, first-quality vinyl siding in a variety of colors and profiles. Whether you’re upgrading for curb appeal or prepping a home for resale, we’ve got the products to help you save big and get the job done right.

Clean Siding, Happy Home

Learning how to clean vinyl siding the right way keeps your home looking its best and prevents long-term damage from grime and moisture. With just a few tools and a free afternoon, you can maintain your home’s appearance and protect your investment.

Need help selecting vinyl siding or planning an exterior update? Call 866-739-1636 or reach out today to speak with our team about what’s in stock and how we can help.

Photo by Curtis Adams