How to Clean Vinyl Siding

Homeowners should know how to clean vinyl siding, as it can get dingy and dirty over time. From dirty rain to gritty wind, vinyl siding can develop buildup. Because it is durable and water-resistant, cleaning it isn't hard, nor does it require any fancy products.

What You'll Need
To clean vinyl siding, you'll need to gather a large bucket, liquid laundry detergent, a hose and something to scrub with, such as a sponge mop, bristled scrub brush or even an old broom. If you have access to a pressure washer, that can work on vinyl siding as well. Fill the 5-gallon bucket about ¾ full of clean water, and then pour ¼ cup of laundry detergent in and stir.

Clean Vinyl Siding 
Spray away any loose dirt and grime with the hose or power washer (set on low to medium). When the dirt is washed away, dip the mop into the detergent mixture and start scrubbing the top of the vinyl section you are working on. Work from top to bottom until the section is soaped up and clean. Rinse soapy water away with the hose, and allow the area to air dry as you move to the next section.

Tips On How To Clean Vinyl Siding
There are a few things you can do to make the job go more smoothly and minimize the frustration and potential damage to property:

• Cover up plants and flowers with tarp or newspaper to keep soapy water away.
• Check that all the doors and windows to the house are closed tightly.
• Work in 5-foot sections around the house to ensure you don't miss any areas.
• Avoid using too much pressure with the hose or pressure washer; you'll want to avoid getting water behind the vinyl panels.
• For mildew stains on vinyl siding, consider pre-scrubbing with a water and bleach mixture to kill the mildew.
• Try a ladder to access hard-to-reach heights, but use caution when climbing and descending with the mop in hand.