How to clean a wood floor without a pressure washer

I love spending time on my deck, but I don’t like the dirt that accumulates in the winter. You might think you need a heavy machine to clean it. I used to think so too. But I learned that using a pressure washer can actually damage your wood by breaking the fibers.

Today, I want to show you how to clean a wood deck without a pressure washer. It’s one of my favorites exterior cleaning work! So read on for the homemade deck cleaner recipe and specific stain removal combinations that are safer for your hardwood floor and easier on your wallet.

Why you should skip the electric washing machine

Electric washing machines are powerful. Sometimes, they are very strong. They can leave grooves or cracks in the wood that are expensive to fix. If you own a rental, you definitely want to avoid this risk.

Cleaning by hand requires a little more “elbow grease” but is a task that anyone can do. It usually takes about two to three hours for a typical deck.

How to clean the floor naturally with spot treatments

Before washing the entire deck, treat any stubborn stains. This prevents them from sinking deeper into the wood. Behold how to clean the floor naturally using common household items:

• Slag: Squeeze the fresh lemon juice on the spot and cover it with table salt. Wait 15 minutes and then rub it off.
• Grease: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the stain. Place a sheet of paper on top and weigh it. Let it sit for a few hours to absorb the oil before wiping it off.
• Mold, Mildew and Algae: Spray a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide. Let it sit for 20 minutes before scrubbing.
• Leaves and pollen: Combine equal parts water and white vinegar, then add a few drops of liquid dish soap. Spray it on, scrub with a non-metallic brush and rinse.
• Bird burns: Scrape off any dried bits with a plastic tool. Wash the spot with a 50-50 solution of water and vinegar. For stubborn messes, add a little dish soap.

Brooch

My favorite deck cleaner recipe

You don’t need harsh chemicals to get a deep clean. This DIY deck cleaner it is safe for your plants and pets.

The recipe:

• 1 gallon hot water
• 1 cup oxygen bleach powder (such as OxiClean)

Oxygen bleach is great because it doesn’t strip the natural color of your wood like chlorine bleach does. Mix it well in a large bucket until the powder dissolves. (Don’t want to use the powder? See my recipe homemade oxygen bleach liquid.)

Step by Step: How to clean a wood floor without a pressure washer

Follow these steps for a deck that looks brand new.

1. Clean the area: Move all your furniture, grills and plants. Don’t try to deal with them!
2. Wipe well: Use a broom to get rid of leaves and dirt. Check the gaps between your boards. You can use a fine tool or a special brush to remove trapped pine needles.
3. Wet the wood: Spray the deck lightly with a garden hose. This helps the wood absorb it homemade deck cleaner better.
4. Apply and wait: Working in small sections, pour in your cleaning solution. Let it sit and foam for about 15 minutes. Keep the area moist while you wait.
5. Rub gently: Use a soft-bristled brush or a push broom. Always sand in the direction of the grain of the wood to avoid scratching.
6. Rinse well: Use your hose to wash off all the foam. Be sure to wash nearby plants as well.
7. Dry completely: Allow the deck to dry for at least 48 hours before moving furniture back or applying sealant.

Tips to keep your deck beautiful

A little maintenance goes a long way. I recommend vacuuming your deck once a week to prevent rot. Also, check your gutters once a year. If they overflow onto your deck, the extra water can weaken the wood.

If you plan to seal your wood, make sure it is completely dry. You can test it by pouring some water on a board. If the wood absorbs the water in a few minutes, it is ready for sealing.