Plastic decking, including PVC and composite variants, can stay bright and inviting with a simple, methodical cleaning routine. The right tools minimize effort and protect surfaces from wear. This guide uses common household gear and purpose-built cleaning products to remove dirt, mildew, and stains without damaging the deck.
Quick Answer
For most plastic decking, sweep away loose debris, apply a mild soap solution, scrub with a soft-bristle brush, and rinse thoroughly. For set-in stains or mildew, use a non-bleach cleaner and a longer reach brush, then rinse. Avoid high-pressure steam or extremely harsh chemicals that can scratch or dull the surface.
What You’ll Need
- Electric pressure washer for vinyl deck cleaning
- Deck cleaning brush with extendable handle for plastic decking
- Soft bristle plastic deck scrub brush for PVC decking
- Telescoping aluminum deck scrub wand for outdoor cleaning
- Vinyl deck cleaning tool kit with brush and squeegee
Before You Start
Clear furniture and planters from the deck. Inspect for loose boards or protruding nails and repair if needed. Test cleaners on a small, inconspicuous area before full use. For safety, wear eye protection and gloves, especially when using a pressure washer or chemical cleaners. Time estimate: 20–60 minutes depending on deck size and staining. Never use a metal brush on plastic decking as it can scratch the surface.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Plastic Decking
- Remove all loose debris with a broom or leaf blower to prevent gritty abrasion during scrubbing.
- Rinse the deck with a garden hose or a gentle rinse setting on a pressure washer to loosen surface grime.
- Prepare a cleaning solution: mix a mild, non-bleach detergent with warm water in a bucket.
- Dip a soft bristle plastic deck scrub brush for PVC decking into the solution and scrub in a section-by-section pattern, going with the grain of the boards.
- For extended reach, use the deck cleaning brush with extendable handle for plastic decking or the telescoping aluminum deck scrub wand for outdoor cleaning to reach upper or shaded areas.
- Rinse each section thoroughly to prevent soap buildup. A light mist from a spray nozzle works well without forcing water into seams.
- If mold or mildew remains, apply a diluted cleaner designed for vinyl or PVC decking, following label directions. Let it sit briefly, then scrub and rinse.
- Dry the deck with a towel or allow air to circulate to prevent water spots and blistering in colder weather.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Streaks or water spots | Soap residue or hard water | Rinse thoroughly; use a light mist and repeat | Rinse promptly after scrubbing; avoid leaving soap on surface |
| Mildew returning | Shade, moisture, and organic buildup | Use a mildew-specific cleaner and scrub; ensure area dries | Improve sun exposure or airflow; clean annually |
| Scratches or dull finish | Abrasive brushes or aggressive scrubbing | Switch to a soft-bristle brush; scrub gently | Use appropriate tools and avoid metal brushes |
| Streaks after rinse | Remaining detergent or mineral deposits | Re-rinse with clean water | Rinse until water runs clear |
Common Mistakes
- Using a high-heat or high-pressure setting on sensitive plastic decking
- Using bleach or chlorine-containing cleaners on PVC surfaces
- Scrubbing with hard or metal brushes, which can scratch the surface
- Not letting the deck dry completely before using it again
Tips For Best Results
- Work in shaded sections to keep cleaners from drying too quickly and leaving residues
- Test cleaner on a small area first to confirm no color fading
- Combine a scrub with a rinse to remove embedded dirt from joints and seams
- Use extendable tools to reduce bending and reach, protecting your back
- Schedule cleaning at least once per year to maintain brightness and longevity
Call A Professional
Call a professional if the deck has extensive structural damage, severe mold growth that doesn’t respond to cleaning, or if you plan major pressure washing that could overwhelm the surface. Stop and seek expert help if you notice warped boards, loose fasteners, or color fading beyond typical wear.
FAQ
Can I use a pressure washer on plastic decking?
Yes, but use a low-pressure setting and a wide fan tip to avoid damage and ensure a gentle rinse.
What cleaner should I use on PVC decking?
Choose a non-bleach, mild cleaner labeled for vinyl or PVC decking and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
How often should plastic decking be cleaned?
At minimum once a year, with spot cleaning as needed for stains, mold, or mildew.
Is soap residue harmful to pets or plants?
Rinse thoroughly to remove soap traces, then allow the area to dry before pets or plants access the deck.
What tools make cleaning easier?
Extendable brushes and telescoping wands help reach corners and railings while reducing strain.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cleaning setup for plastic decking involves several factors. Consider the deck’s size and the extent of staining to determine whether you need a powerful option like an electric pressure washer or a gentler scrubbing approach with a soft-bristle brush. Noise level matters for shared spaces; look for tools designed for quiet operation if neighbors are nearby. Energy efficiency and durability are important for longer-term use, especially with extended-handled tools. Controls should be simple, with variable pressure and easy access to spray patterns. Place tools where you can reach all areas of the deck, such as near a storage area or shed. When comparing kits, check that they include a brush, squeegee, and an adjustable wand to cover both wide boards and tight gaps. Different configurations may suit different deck materials, including vinyl and PVC decking, so pick a kit that covers your surface type and preferred cleaning method. Do you value a complete kit or plan to mix individual tools over time? A kit can be convenient, while single tools may offer premium performance for specific tasks.