Image: MomJunction Design Team
Although vinyl sidings are popular due to their durability and design, they tend to get dirty quite quickly. So, check out our list of the best vinyl siding cleaners for easy maintenance. Vinyl sidings are easy to install and available in various colors to suit your taste. They may be low-maintenance; however, they may turn moldy and catch mildew over time. So, vinyl siding cleaners can help keep the sidings clean and ensure they last a long time. Take a look at our list of some tried-and-tested options to choose the right one.
Top Picks
15 Best Vinyl Siding Cleaners
1. Best Multi-Purpose: RMR-86 Instant Mold And Mildew Stain Remover Spray
Image: Rmr Brands RMR’s liquid cleaner is a highly effective siding cleaning product that removes all stains caused by mildew or mold and the damp and musty odors left behind by such stains. It is a quick-acting spray that can target mold embedded between cracks or elsewhere. It is simple and easy to use on multiple surfaces, including vinyl. Watch this review video and learn about a tester’s experience with using this product.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- No scrubbing required
- Ready to use
Cons
- Strong bleach smell
"I am amazed at how quickly this cleaner removes mold, including the stubborn black one. It did not even require mixing or dilution, saving much of my time. That said, it does emit some fumes, so I keep my windows open when spraying it."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 39,124 positive reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Environment-Friendly: Calyptus All-Purpose Vinegar
Image: Natural Elements Calyptus all-purpose cleaner is highly concentrated and effective. One of the top-rated cleaners, it is nine times more potent than vinegar. It can be diluted up to 1:8 with water or used straight for effective cleaning. It makes nearly nine gallons of regular cleaning vinegar when diluted. This cleaner is made with plant-based ingredients.
Pros
- Environment safe
- Used for both indoor and outdoor cleaning
- Unscented
Cons
- It could be harmful tothe skin
"I chose this cleaner due to its non-toxic formulation. It removes stains without me scrubbing the surface with a brush and has caused no harm to my plants. Overall, it has quickly become my favorite product for cleaning the area surrounding my house."
3. Best No-Scrub Formula: Rejuvenate High-Performance Outdoor Window Spray
Image: Rejuvenate Rejuvenate outdoor window spray is a concentrated non-scrub formula that removes stains instantly. This versatile formula is not harmful to plants and can be used for cleaning siding materials like vinyl sidings, wood sidings, and brick walls. Attach the spray to your hose, wet it, apply it, and wait for two to three minutes before rinsing it off. The effective vinyl cleaner can remove dirt, salt, pollen, and other residues while leaving a gleaming shine.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Keeps surfaces clean for long a time
- Can spray up to 40m high
Cons
- Might require a strong hose/scrubbing for deep cleaning
"The spray mechanism of this cleaner has made it easy to clean the windows of my house. While the need for a post-rinse was surprising, its streak-free performance and affordable price have made it a repeat buy for me."
Quick tipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is a hit with users, evidenced by the 3,499 fine reviews on Amazon.
RMR-86 Instant Mold And Mildew Stain Remover Spray Best Multi-Purpose | Calyptus All-Purpose Vinegar Best Environment-Friendly | Rejuvenate High-Performance Outdoor Window Spray Best No-Scrub Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package Dimensions | 12.44 x 6.38 x 6.26 inches; 9.26 Pounds | 14.13 x 12.87 x 12.71 inches; 37.02 Pounds | - |
| Weight | - | - | 2 pounds |
| Dimensions | - | - | 4.51 x 2.28 x 12.25 inches. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 39,124 | 140 | 3,499 |
| Price | $16.99 | $79.95 | $15.99 |
4. Best For Carpeted Surface: Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner & Protectant
Image: Star Brite Star Brite’s non-skid deck cleaner easily removes dirt and stains from surfaces. It is a bleach- and acid-free formula and also free of all harmful chemicals. In addition, it leaves a protective layer of PTEF polymers after cleaning to protect against future stains, making it one of the best vinyl stain-prevention solution. To learn more about this time-tested product in detail, you can check out this product testing video.
Pros
- Safe to use
- No scrubbing
- Works on carpeted surfaces, too
Cons
- Might require some scrubbing on extremely unclean surfaces.
"This cleaner has removed all kinds of greasy stains, regardless of whether I use it on my vinyl siding or RV�s roof. It even makes the surface look refined and has no strong odor, which has been a boon for my senses."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It's no wonder that this quality product has earned over 2,476 positive reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Ready-To-Use: American Hydro Systems Rid O’ Liquid
Image: American Hydro Systems Rid O’ Rust removes stains from most inorganic external surfaces caused by irrigation and eliminates stains from well water. The pre-mixed liquid is designed to dissolve stains in a matter of seconds. It is not compatible with materials containing iron oxide as a surface pigment or as a component.
Pros
- Used by both homes and professionals
- Needs no scrubbing
- Environment friendly
Cons
- May not work on rust stains
"Impressed by its efficiency, I use this liquid to clean my sidings and cobblestone driveway. It's pretty concentrated, too, requiring just a small amount to cover the whole area. Plus, the option to spray it makes cleaning more convenient."
6. Best Chlorine-Free: Simple Green Oxy Solve House And Siding Cleaner
Image: Simple Green The house and siding cleaner by Simple Green can quickly and efficiently remove stains and discoloration caused by algae, mildew, and moss buildup. This quality-tested non-toxic house wash solution is infused with peroxide and is powerful enough to clean various textured surfaces and siding materials, including vinyl, aluminum, wood, and brick siding. Moreover, it can also be used with standard power washers, making vinyl surface cleaning a low-effort and hassle-free experience.
Pros
- Chlorine-free
- Removes tough grime
- Highly concentrated formula
- Suitable for use around pets, plants, and water bodies
- US EPA Safer-Choice certified
Cons
- Might take time to show results
- May require dual application
"I've used this cleaner on various outdoor surfaces, and the results have always been remarkable. Although I have had to use a little elbow grease for the tough spots, it has become my preferred option as it cleans without being harsh on the surrounding plants."
Caution7. Best For Mold And Mildew Stains: Zep House And Siding Pressure Wash Cleaner
Image: Zep The tried-and-tested construction-grade cleaner by Zep can remove stubborn stains, mold, mildew, and dirt from the roof and the sides of your home. Its highly concentrated formula makes up to 20 gallons of cleaner and is enough to clean brick, gutters, and hard-coat stucco. Suitable for use with a pressure sprayer or broom, this cleaner can help you remove stains from textured surfaces with minimal scrubbing.
Pros
- Multipurpose use
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Provides a clean look
- Suitable for various siding options like vinyl, aluminum, and wood sidings
Cons
- Some might find the smell unpleasant
"Although pricey, this liquid cleaner has lasted for over a year. It has also proven effective for various stains, including mold and mildew. However, I�d recommend doing a pre-rinse to get the best out of it."
8. Best For Hard Surface: MiracleMist Instant Mold And Mildew Stain Remover
Image: Miraclemist The MiracleMist stain remover starts working immediately. The wetting agents penetrate deep into hard and soft surfaces, removing grime, dirt, and other contaminants. This stain remover for vinyl is 40 percent stronger than other bleaches, and it prevents the recurrence of stains. In addition, there are no harsh chemicals in it.
Pros
- Used for both indoors and outdoors
- Pleasant fragrance
- No scrubbing required
Cons
- The smell might be strong
"Just a few sprays of this liquid were enough to get rid of thick layers of dirt and mildew buildup. It has a generous amount of bleach content, causing some potent fumes, but its effectiveness has made it a staple in my household."
9. Best Mess-Free: Vinyl Renu Siding Restorer
Image: Seal It Green The Vinyl Renu kit includes a powerful cleaner that removes dirt, oxidation, and unsightly green stains from walls. It also works as a treatment to restore color to an area of up to 350 square feet. The water-based ingredients reverse the UV rays effect on the sidings. As a result, this oxidation removal method outlasts paint and thus does not require annual maintenance.
Pros
- Eco-friendly formula
- Easy to use
- Mess-free clean-up
Cons
- It may not work in all weather conditions
"While some tough spots required double coats, this cleaner makes the vinyl sides of my house look like new. I have also noticed that it dries quickly and protects the sidings and garage doors from the sun's rays."
Do remember10. Best Ammonia-Free: Zep Hose-End Outdoor Cleaner
Image: Zep The ZepHose-End cleaner comes with a powerful sprayer that connects to any garden hose and mixes and dispenses a professional-grade cleaning solution. The concentrated formula, designed specifically for use with a hose, removes debris while leaving outdoor surfaces with a streak-free, crystal-clear shine, making it one of the best vinyl restoration formulas.
Pros
- Ammonia-free formula
- Easy to use
- Good hose pressure
Cons
- May leave streaks
"Cleaning my windows has been hassle-free since I got this liquid cleaner. It is also straightforward to use�I only have to attach a hose. Besides, it does not leave any streaks or require scrubbing to dissolve the stain."
11. Best Easy-To-Use: Rejuvenate Dual System Outdoor Window Cleaner & House Siding Cleaner
Image: Rejuvenate The tried-and-tested Rejuvenate cleaner makes outdoor cleaning a breeze and is a great choice for homeowners looking for a plant-safe cleaner. The pack includes two concentrated cleaning solutions for stains in linked bottles. This sprayer works as a vinyl siding cleaner and a home siding cleaner for painted surfaces and windows on the second floor without the need for a ladder.
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Safe for plants and grass
- Easy to use
Cons
- The solution may be a bit foamy
"I just have to apply this potent liquid on the sides of my house, give it a few minutes, and it makes them look clean and shiny. Some may find the sprayer slightly tricky, but it gets easier with time, and the overall results are pretty satisfying."
12. Best For Cleaning Dirt And Grime: 30 Seconds Outdoor Mold & Mildew Cleaner & Stain Remover
Image: 30 Seconds Make your doors, patios, siding, and roofs look clean and tidy with the quality-tested 30 Seconds mold cleaner, which easily removes stains caused by dirt, grime, mildew, and other organic growth. Its highly concentrated formula can remove stains from tough and textured surfaces such as fences, arbors, brick siding, and painted walls in just a few minutes. Simply mix the cleaner with water in a 1:1 ratio and apply it to the stained area for easy and quick cleaning.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quick-acting formula
- Suitable for use around plants
- Can be used to clean outdoor furniture
- No scrubbing needed
Cons
- Might have a strong bleach smell
- May not be suitable for cleaning black algae
"I bought this to clean my vinyl sidings, but it has worked well for everything from wood fences to algae. It's pretty concentrated, so I have to dilute it sometimes, yet it cleans so well that I don't even have to scrub the surface."
13. Best Organic: Wash Safe Industries Supreme Eco-Safe And Organic Cleaner
Image: Wash Safe Suitable for cleaning stains from outdoor surfaces such as sidings, wood decks, roofs, blue stone, pavers, patios, and outdoor furniture, the Wash Safe Vinyl Cleaner is a one-stop solution to keeping your home clean and shiny. Its oxygen-based formula is hydrogen peroxide-heavy and can be used with standard pressure washers. Besides removing stains, this organic vinyl care product can also deodorize trash cans, litter boxes, and portable toilets.
Pros
- Developed and tested by contractors
- Chlorine-and bleach-free formula
- Cleans up to 10,000 sq. ft
- Eco-friendly formula can be used around plants and water bodies
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Soft washing
Cons
- Might take time to show results
"I got this at my friend's recommendation and am glad it does not emit fumes like my earlier cleaner. It takes some time to remove mold but works instantly on mildew and other stains. Thus, I use it for both regular maintenance and heavy-duty cleaning."
14. Best Versatile: RMR-86 Instant Mold And Mildew Stain Remover Spray
Image: Rmr Brands Store The stains left behind by mildew and black mold are easily removed with RMR-86 stain remover. It works well in the kitchen, drywall, and other areas. The mold stain removal spray targets deeply buried spots and works quickly. This tough stain-removing spray needs to sit for some time before being cleaned off.
Pros
- No scrubbing required
- Safe to use on multiple surfaces
- Easy to use
Cons
- The smell might be strong
15. Best Bleach-Free: Wet & Forget Outdoor Stain Remover
Image: Wet & Forget Wet & Forget’s outdoor cleaner makes cleaning a breeze and is a great choice for homeowners looking for a bleach-free cleaner. The hose end and the patented nozzle extend each bottle’s reach and coverage. When connected to a hose, it can spray up to 30 feet, allowing you to clean in difficult-to-reach places. In addition, each bottle has a coverage area of up to 2,000 square feet, making it one of the best cleaners for vinyl sidings.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Bleach-free
- No scrubbing or rinsing
Cons
- Bottle is non-refillable
How To Choose The Right Vinyl Siding Cleaner?
Consider the following factors when choosing the right vinyl siding cleaner.
- Ingredients: Avoid using solvents such as acetone, undiluted bleach solutions, liquid grease remover, and furniture cleaners, which may damage the vinyl. Look for guarantees that the product will not harm or destroy grass or plants. If you have any plants, you don’t want your vinyl siding cleaner to harm them.
- Formula: Vinyl siding cleansers come in two varieties—ready-to-use and concentrated. Concentrated formulations are cost-effective since they travel farther, but they must be diluted. However, if you use it in a power washer, the machine will dilute it for you. Ready-to-use formulas offer convenience but have a shorter shelf life.
- Application: Your cleaner can be used in a power washer or can be sprayed manually. Choose the option that works the best for you.
- Purpose: Siding cleaners serve a variety of purposes. Some are designed to remove general stains, while others target mold and mildew stains. Some are designed to refresh and brighten, while others can only clean. Take note of the purpose and select the best one for you.
- Impact on the environment: Look for products certified safe by agencies, such as the EPA. Such cleaners will not leave residues that will harm the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I clean my vinyl siding?
As a general rule, vinyl siding should be pressure-cleaned once a year. You can pressure-wash the siding once every two years if it seems to be clean and free of mold, mildew stains, dirt, or debris accumulation.
2. How can I clean vinyl siding without a pressure washer?
A bucket of soapy water, a soft brush, and a garden hose are all you’ll need to clean dirt. Apply the soapy solution to the siding by hand and thoroughly rinse it with clean water from the garden hose. However, for tough stains and dirt, you can use a vinyl siding cleaner with a drill brush tool, followed by power washing for effective cleaning.
3. How do I use vinyl siding cleaners safely?
You should use a microfiber cloth or an ordinary long-handled soft-bristle brush with vinyl siding cleaners to avoid scratching the siding.
4. Can I make my own vinyl siding cleaning solution?
Yes, you can make your own vinyl siding cleaning solution. Just mix vinegar and water in a ratio of 70:30 to make a vinyl siding cleaner. Then, fill this solution in a spray bottle, and it’s ready to use.
Paula Tarling, an experienced domestic cleaner and influencer, says, “Vinyl sliding, also known as cladding, can be a breeding ground for stubborn algae and look green over time. I recommend using an effective cleaner that works with minimal effort. A solution of white vinegar, hot water, and a spritz of dish soap will also work if you prefer to give it a good scrub.”
5. What do professionals use to clean vinyl siding?
Typically, professionals pressure-wash vinyl siding with concentrated bleach-free vinyl siding cleaners to clean vinyl siding.
6. Will vinegar harm vinyl siding?
Concentrated vinegar can be very harsh and severely harm your vinyl siding. Therefore, always use a diluted vinegar solution to clean them.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Wedetso Chirhah writes well-researched content on household goods and items that make your life easier. In this post, he has listed the best vinyl siding cleaners after going through the specifications and customer reviews for various products. The products on this list are formulated to clear dirt and mold and mildew stains from various outdoor surfaces. Moreover, you can find some eco-friendly and versatile options.
The Bottom Line
While vinyl sidings are popular in houses as a décor piece or weatherproofing, they are prone to dust and mildew accumulation. Regular detergents are not enough to clean them effectively, and you need the best vinyl siding cleaners by your side. These cleaners are loaded with potent ingredients and remove all stains caused by mildew, dust, or mold. However, before choosing the cleaner, ensure the ingredients do not contain solvents such as acetone, undiluted bleach, and liquid grease remover. Also, choose a certified product by reliable third parties such as the EPA. Our top picks are the Calyptus All-Purpose Vinegar, as it is unscented, the Star Brite Non-Skid Deck Cleaner for its bleach- and acid-free formula, and the MiracleMist Instant Stain Remover, as it requires minimal scrubbing.
Infographic: How To Clean Vinyl Sidings?
Vinyl sidings provide a durable, low-maintenance solution for enhancing your home’s exterior. Regular cleaning, at least once a year or more frequently in humid and damp conditions, is essential to remove insects, cobwebs, grime, dust, and mold, ensuring a pristine appearance and maintaining hygiene. Refer to the following infographic to learn how to properly care for your vinyl sidings.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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