Banish Mildew From Vinyl Siding With A Classic Cleaning Staple You Already Own

As one of the most affordable options for home siding materials, vinyl siding is an excellent way to protect your property from the elements. While this siding choice requires less maintenance than other materials, mildew can still collect on your home, which can create an eyesore. Don't think you have to hire a professional to clean your home's siding though, because you can banish mildew with a common kitchen favorite: white vinegar.

Mildew is a form of mold that can form on the siding's surface, feeding off any accumulated dirt or tree sap. As moisture clings to the vinyl, this encourages fungus growth, especially in well-shaded areas. The lack of sunlight makes it hard for evaporation and creates the perfect conditions to spawn mildew. However, mildew stains are no match for vinegar's strong pH, which cuts through 80% of mold species. Vinegar is a powerful antifungal and safe alternative to bleach so you can get your vinyl siding looking new again in no time.

Prepare the siding for your vinegar and water solution by brushing it with a long soft-bristled brush to dislodge any dirt. Begin at the top and work your way down, then prepare your solution. The right formula for cleaning your vinyl siding with vinegar is 7 parts water to 3 parts vinegar, which is an all-purpose solution for light mold and mildew stains. 

When using a pressure washer, turn it to a low setting, then load with the vinegar solution. Avoid using hot water in your pressure washer as this may warp the siding. Start at a safe distance with the nozzle at a 45 degree angle at least 12 inches away from the exterior as you spray, and then gradually move forward, watching to see if there's any visible damage to the siding. If you don't have a pressure washer, use a spray bottle to coat the areas you can reach. Once you've treated the siding completely, let sit for a few minutes to allow the mildew stains to break down before lightly scrubbing any stubborn marks. Use a soft microfiber cloth and carefully go over the siding. Finally, rinse the siding with cool, clean water working from top to bottom to ensure you remove the mildew.

While power washing your home with a vinegar solution, be sure to avoid spraying nearby any of your plants. Using vinegar in the garden can help with killing weeds but it can also kill plants, especially new or young leaves. You can protect your plants by draping them with a tarp and taking care not to spray them. Wash off any plants with vinegar exposure to minimize its effect. 

Practice safe pressure washing by operating your washer according to manufacturer directions. Before washing vinyl siding, check for any damage such as cracks, chips or holes. Left untreated, these siding defects can let water, leading to potential damage. You should always wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles, plus check your surroundings before operating the pressure washer to avoid injury to yourself or others. Don't forget to close your doors and windows to avoid getting water in the home, or you could have some costly repair bills.