Power washing and soft washing rely on a variety of chemicals designed to remove mold, mildew, algae, grease, rust, dirt, and stains without damaging surfaces. The chemicals used depend on the material being cleaned and the type of contamination present.
Professionals listed on PowerWashing.com use commercial-grade detergents formulated for power washing — not household cleaners — ensuring safe, thorough, and long-lasting results.
Below is the full breakdown of the most commonly used chemicals in the pressure washing industry.
⭐ 1. Sodium Hypochlorite (SH) — The Most Common Cleaning Agent
Sodium Hypochlorite is the active ingredient in bleach, and it is the backbone of soft washing.
Used for:
Why it works:
Pros dilute SH properly to avoid damage to vegetation or sensitive surfaces and often use surfactants to improve dwell time.
⭐ 2. Sodium Hydroxide — Heavy-Duty Degreaser
A strong alkaline cleaner used for:
Sodium Hydroxide breaks down fats, oils, and proteins quickly. It is powerful but must be used cautiously, as it can damage certain surfaces if misused.
⭐ 3. Potassium Hydroxide — Another Strong Degreaser
Similar to sodium hydroxide but more surface-friendly.
Used for:
Often part of proprietary blends used by professionals.
⭐ 4. Surfactants (Soaps)
Surfactants help chemicals stick to surfaces longer, preventing runoff and increasing effectiveness.
They provide:
Professionals often mix surfactants with SH for house washes and roof cleans.
⭐ 5. Oxalic Acid — Rust & Wood Brightening
Used for:
Oxalic acid is a key component of rust removers and wood restoration kits.
⭐ 6. Citric Acid — Mild Organic Cleaner
A gentler alternative acid used on:
Biodegradable and surface-friendly.
⭐ 7. Hydrofluoric & Hydrochloric Acid (Used ONLY by Trained Pros)
These are extremely strong acids used for:
Improper use can severely damage surfaces or cause injury — only pros with protective gear should use them.
Most consumer-grade cleaners avoid these acids entirely.
⭐ 8. Degreasers
Formulated to break down:
Commonly used in:
Degreasers activate best with hot water.
⭐ 9. Enzyme Cleaners
Used for:
These continue working long after application.
⭐ 10. Iron & Mineral Removers
Used for:
Often contain buffered acids or proprietary blends like F9 BARC.
⭐ 11. Detergents for House Washing
These blends typically include:
Designed to protect landscaping and sensitive materials.
⭐ 12. Are Chemicals Safe?
When used by professionals, yes.
Pros:
This is why most homeowners and businesses rely on PowerWashing.com Directory Contractors instead of experimenting with chemicals they don’t fully understand.
