Soft washing has become an increasingly popular method for exterior cleaning, offering an effective and long-lasting alternative to traditional pressure washing. Instead of relying on high-pressure water jets, soft washing uses a low-pressure application of specialist cleaning solutions to remove dirt, algae, lichen, moss, and other biological growth. This gentle approach is particularly beneficial for delicate surfaces, such as render, sandstone, and roof tiles, which could be damaged by aggressive power washing.
Unlike pressure washing, which simply removes surface contaminants without addressing the root cause, soft washing eliminates organic growth at a microbial level, ensuring a deeper and longer-lasting clean. The method is widely used in both residential and commercial settings, and its effectiveness has led to a surge in demand across the UK.
HOW SOFT WASHING WORKS
Soft washing primarily relies on two key chemical agents: BAC50 biocide and sodium hypochlorite. Each has distinct characteristics, and their selection depends on the specific requirements of the cleaning project. BAC50 biocide is a professional-grade algaecide and fungicide containing 50% didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC). This powerful biocide works by disrupting the cellular structure of algae, moss, and bacteria, preventing them from returning for months or even years. The most significant advantage of BAC50 is its long-lasting residual effect, which continues to inhibit regrowth long after application. However, its cleaning action is gradual, with visible results appearing over a period of days or weeks. Many cleaning professionals favour BAC50 for projects where sustained protection against biological growth is a priority, such as on roofs, walls, and render.
Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach, is another widely used chemical in soft washing. This powerful oxidising agent rapidly breaks down organic stains, making it an excellent choice for instant cleaning results. Unlike BAC50, sodium hypochlorite does not provide long-term protection, meaning surfaces treated with it may experience regrowth sooner. Despite this drawback, it is often the preferred choice for areas requiring immediate visual improvement, such as patios, driveways, and heavily stained brickwork. However, it must be used with caution, as it can be harmful to vegetation and certain materials if not properly diluted and applied.
SOFTWASHING BEYOND THE MAIN TWO CHEMICALS
Beyond the removal of algae, moss, and lichen, soft washing has expanded into other areas of exterior maintenance. One such application is oil stain removal from driveways and patios. Products like Resiblock work by drawing out oil stains from porous materials, lifting the contamination to the surface, where it can be safely rinsed away. This is particularly beneficial for petrol-stained driveways or areas that have been affected by vehicle leaks. Another growing use of soft washing is the removal of rust stains from walls and exterior surfaces. Brands such as Pureseal’s Smelly Stuff have developed specialist formulations that dissolve rust deposits without damaging underlying materials. Rust stains can be particularly stubborn, especially on brick, render, and stone, and traditional pressure washing often fails to remove them entirely. By using chemical-based rust removers, professionals can restore affected surfaces to their original appearance with minimal effort. Ultimate Clean Solutions, have some blogs that go deep into the soft washing industry on their website.
SOFTWASHING AS A TREND
The increasing preference for soft washing over pressure washing is driven by several factors. First and foremost is surface preservation. High-pressure washing can damage delicate materials, eroding sandstone, dislodging roof tiles, and even causing water ingress into render. Soft washing, by contrast, avoids these risks while still delivering a deep clean. Another factor contributing to its popularity is the long-term results it offers. Whereas pressure washing simply blasts contaminants from the surface, soft washing chemically eliminates organic growth at its root, ensuring that algae, moss, and lichen do not return quickly. This means homeowners and businesses can enjoy cleaner surfaces for longer, reducing maintenance costs over time. Google Trends data shows a steady increase in searches for soft washing services across the UK in recent years, particularly in urban areas where exterior surfaces are more susceptible to pollution and biological growth. Many professional exterior cleaners report that customers are now requesting soft washing by name, having seen the benefits of the technique compared to traditional pressure washing methods. Environmental considerations also play a role in the growing demand for soft washing. Because it requires significantly less water than pressure washing and can be carried out using biodegradable cleaning solutions, it is viewed as a more eco-friendly approach. Many homeowners are now prioritising environmentally responsible cleaning methods, further boosting the appeal of soft washing.
THE COMMON USES OF SOFTWASHING FOR CLEANING
Soft washing is suitable for a wide range of exterior surfaces, making it one of the most versatile cleaning methods available. One of its most common applications is roof cleaning. Over time, roofs accumulate moss, algae, and lichen, which not only detract from a property’s appearance but can also cause damage by retaining moisture and promoting the growth of root systems. Soft washing eliminates these growths without the need for abrasive scraping or high-pressure water, preserving the integrity of roof tiles. Walls, especially those made from render or brick, also benefit greatly from soft washing. In damp climates, walls can quickly become covered in algae and mildew, leading to unsightly discolouration.
WHERE PRESSURE WASHING FAILS AND SOFT WASHING LEADS
Traditional pressure washing often fails to remove these contaminants entirely, whereas soft washing eradicates them at a biological level, preventing regrowth for extended periods. Patios and driveways, particularly those made from Indian sandstone, are another area where soft washing excels. Indian sandstone is highly porous, making it a prime target for black spot lichen, algae, and general dirt build-up. Pressure washing alone often fails to remove black spot stains effectively, as they are deeply embedded in the stone’s surface. Soft washing treatments, particularly those incorporating biocides, penetrate the pores of the stone, killing black spot at its source and restoring the patio to its original colour. Wooden decking and fences are also ideal candidates for soft washing. Moss and mildew can make wooden surfaces slippery and hazardous, but soft washing cleans them effectively without causing damage to the wood fibres. Many professional cleaners use this method to refresh and protect outdoor timber structures, prolonging their lifespan.
