Professional power washing uses a variety of detergents, surfactants, and cleaning agents — each designed for specific surfaces and stains. When used correctly, these products are safe for your home, your landscaping, and the environment. Modern soft washing relies more on chemistry than brute pressure, which allows professionals to clean effectively while protecting delicate materials.
PowerWashing.com is an ECO-Accredited Provider through the Environmental Cleaning Organization (https://environmentalcleaning.org). This means our recommended contractors follow strict environmental guidelines for chemical mixing, application, runoff control, dilution, and plant protection. These standards help ensure cleaning solutions are used responsibly and safely.
Below is a full breakdown of what professionals use — and why.
⭐ 1. The Most Common Chemicals Used in Power Washing
Different stains require different solutions. Here are the primary categories:
1. Sodium Hypochlorite (SH) — “Soft Wash Mix”
This is the most common cleaning agent used for:
When diluted properly (usually 1–3% for siding, 3–6% for roofs), SH sanitizes and removes biological growth safely.
ECO-accredited contractors use:
2. Surfactants (Soaps)
Surfactants help detergents cling to surfaces longer, increasing cleaning efficiency.
Benefits:
These are biodegradable when sourced from ECO-compliant manufacturers.
3. Degreasers
Used for:
Common ingredients include sodium hydroxide or citrus-based solvents.
Pros dilute these chemicals heavily to ensure safety and prevent surface discoloration.
4. Detergents for Oxidation or Stain Removal
Professional-grade detergents handle:
These are specialty chemicals often used with:
5. Eco-Friendly Enzyme-Based Cleaners
These products are designed for sensitive environments and organic buildup.
They’re often used for:
ECO-accredited contractors choose enzyme cleaners when appropriate because they break down naturally.
⭐ 2. Are These Chemicals Safe?
Yes — when mixed and applied correctly by trained professionals, power washing chemicals are safe for:
Safety comes from:
DIY misuse is where problems occur, such as plant damage or surface discoloration. Professionals follow environmental and safety standards to prevent this.
⭐ 3. How Professionals Protect Landscaping and the Environment
This is where ECO accreditation matters most.
Contractors follow environmental protocols including:
These steps protect your lawn, garden, and surrounding ecosystem.
⭐ 4. Why Chemicals Are Often Better Than High Pressure
Pressure alone cannot eliminate:
Chemistry breaks down buildup at the molecular level, allowing much gentler water pressure to be used. This prevents:
This is why professional washing relies on soft washing + proper chemical use instead of high PSI.
⭐ 5. Final Takeaway
Power washing chemicals are safe when used by trained, responsible professionals — especially those following ECO-accredited environmental standards.
✔ Soft wash mixes remove organic growth safely
✔ Degreasers handle oil & petroleum staining
✔ Surfactants improve efficiency and reduce runoff
✔ Enzyme cleaners support eco-friendly applications
✔ Proper dilution and rinsing protect plants and soil
Homeowners can feel confident hiring contractors through the PowerWashing.com Directory, where pros follow the latest environmental guidelines from the Environmental Cleaning Organization.
