Pressure treated wood is a popular choice for decks thanks to its durability and resistance to rot and insects. But even the toughest decks need a little care to stay looking their best. While bleach is often recommended for cleaning wood, many homeowners prefer to avoid it due to its harshness, potential damage to plants, and risk of discoloring the wood.
At Arca Construction, we believe in keeping your deck clean and safe—without harming your home or the environment. Here’s how to clean a pressure treated deck effectively without using bleach.
Why Skip the Bleach?
Bleach may be powerful, but it comes with downsides:
- It can dry out or damage wood fibers, especially over time.
- It’s harmful to plants, pets, and nearby grass or garden beds.
- It may leave behind a chalky residue or uneven color on pressure treated lumber.
- It can be harsh on metal fasteners and hardware used in your deck.
Fortunately, there are safer and just-as-effective alternatives for cleaning your deck.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Without Bleach
Step 1: Sweep the Deck Thoroughly
Before using any cleaners, remove loose debris:
- Sweep away leaves, dirt, and twigs.
- Use a putty knife to clear out debris from between the deck boards if needed.
This helps your cleaning solution reach the wood surface more effectively.
Step 2: Mix a Gentle DIY Cleaner
You can make your own non-toxic cleaner using household ingredients. Try this simple solution:
- 1 gallon of warm water
- 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap (optional)
This mixture is safe for plants, won’t damage your wood, and still tackles grime and mildew.
Step 3: Scrub the Deck Surface
Use a soft-bristle brush or deck scrub brush attached to a long handle:
- Dip the brush into your solution and scrub with the grain of the wood.
- Focus on areas with visible stains, mold, or algae.
- Don’t use a wire brush—it can splinter the wood.
Work in small sections so the solution doesn’t dry out before you rinse it off.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to rinse off the cleaning solution:
- Make sure all soap and residue are removed.
- Avoid using a high-powered pressure washer, which can gouge or damage pressure treated wood if not used correctly.
If you do use a pressure washer, keep it on a low setting and maintain a safe distance (at least 12–18 inches from the surface).
Step 5: Let the Deck Dry Completely
Allow your deck to dry for at least 24–48 hours before replacing furniture or applying sealants. Dry time may vary depending on humidity and sunlight exposure.
This is also a great time to check your deck for:
- Loose boards or nails
- Signs of rot or insect activity
- Areas that might need resealing
Optional: Use a Commercial Non-Bleach Deck Cleaner
There are also eco-friendly, wood-safe deck cleaners available at most hardware stores. Look for products labeled:
- “Oxygenated bleach” (not chlorine-based)
- “Biodegradable” or “plant-safe”
- “Safe for pressure treated wood”
These products provide a deeper clean without the downsides of traditional bleach.
Keep Your Deck Looking Great Year-Round
To prevent buildup and reduce the need for heavy scrubbing:
- Sweep your deck weekly, especially during the fall.
- Rinse off pollen, bird droppings, and food spills promptly.
- Reapply a protective sealant every 1–3 years to preserve the wood’s integrity.
Need Help Maintaining or Upgrading Your Deck?
Whether you're cleaning up your existing pressure treated deck or considering an upgrade, Arca Construction is here to help. We specialize in building and maintaining beautiful, long-lasting outdoor spaces. Want to enhance your outdoor space? Read on.
Contact us today or call (540) 413-4860 to schedule a consultation.
For more deck maintenance tips, visit our blog or explore our full range of services on our homepage.
Let’s keep your deck clean, safe, and ready for relaxing all season long—no bleach needed.