With many high-tech gadgets on the market promising the quickest and most effective cleaning for the exterior of your home, it’s hard to discern which are the best. One thing is for certain though: power washer and softer washer systems are the tried-and-true tools to add to your repertoire. This article will explain the differences between power washing and soft washing, and help you determine which is the best for your cleaning goals. 

Power Washing vs. Soft Washing 

Power Washing –  

This type of cleaning consists of the use of a high-pressurized system that expels intense streams of water to blast away dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and more. Power and pressure cleaning are often thought of as the same type of washes, but there’s actually one major difference between the two: temperature. Power washing uses heated water to clean, while pressure washing uses room-temperature water.  

Soft Washing –  

As the name suggests, this type of wash is much gentler than a high-pressurized system. It consists of a lower-pressurized spray to clean away dirt, grime, mold, mildew, and more. Like power cleaning systems, this system utilizes water, but it also uses a combination of other bleaches and detergents.  

Which Wash Is Best for Me? 

Choosing which tool is best for you depends on a few things: 

1. What surface you’re trying to clean 
   • (E.g., decking, vinyl, roofing, etc.) 
2. The material of your surface 
   • (E.g., brick, cedarwood, asphalt shingles, etc.) 
3. The condition of your surface 
   • (E.g., Is your brick wall damaged and crumbling? Or is it in great shape?) 

After you’ve determined your surface, its material, and its present condition, then you should have enough knowledge to determine if pressure or soft wash is best. Delicate surfaces such as roofing require a gentler wash: cue the soft washer. On the other hand, surfaces such as decking see the best results with a high-pressurized clean.  

The same is true for your surface’s material. Use a power wash to best clean away dirt, mold, and efflorescence, but a soft wash is the better choice for a house with vinyl siding. However, if your brick wall is severely damaged, then choose a soft pressure system over a pressure washer—or better yet, hire a professional to fix it up so you can get the most out of your cleaning.   

What Can I Use with a Power or Soft Washer? 

Soft pressurized systems are known for their compatibility with a variety of soaps, and their reliability on bleach. While only utilizing a low-pressure blast, they still can achieve an aggressive clean.  

On the other hand, many people use power washers with only water. This can work well on certain surfaces, but to get the most out of your cleaning, invest in an industrial-grade cleaning solution to completely transform your home. 

Looking for Power Washing and Soft Washing Chemicals? 

Tidal Washers sells commercial cleaning solutions perfect for industry professionals. Our industrial detergents are available to buy in bulk and are a great option for companies looking to become more environmentally conscious. Reach out to our knowledgeable staff today to get a free quote and learn more about our eco-friendly products!