What is Soft Washing?

Soft washing is a cleaning method used in the pressure washing industry that is distinct from traditional high-pressure washing. It's primarily used for surfaces that are too delicate for high-pressure cleaning. Here's an overview of soft washing:

1. Low Pressure: Unlike standard pressure washing, which uses high pressure to blast dirt and grime off surfaces, soft washing uses a much lower pressure. This gentle approach is suitable for cleaning more delicate surfaces such as roof shingles, wood paneling, and certain types of siding, where high pressure might cause damage.
2. Cleaning Solutions: Soft washing relies heavily on cleaning solutions to do the work. These solutions typically consist of bleach, water, and often a surfactant or soap. The surfactant helps the solution cling to the surface, allowing the cleaning agents more time to work on breaking down the dirt, algae, mold, mildew, and other organic stains.
3. Application: The cleaning solution is applied using a low-pressure spraying system. After the solution is allowed to dwell on the surface for a set period, it is rinsed off with a low-pressure water stream. The dwell time is important for the effectiveness of the cleaning process, as it allows the solution to penetrate and clean the surface thoroughly.
4. Safety and Environmental Concerns: Because the cleaning solutions used in soft washing can be harsh and potentially harmful to plants and animals, care must be taken to protect the surrounding environment. This might include covering plants, diluting run-off, or using environmentally friendly cleaning agents.
5. Advantages: Soft washing is especially effective for removing organic stains like mold, mildew, and algae. It's also a safer method for cleaning delicate surfaces that might be damaged by high-pressure washing. Additionally, because it relies more on chemicals to clean, it often provides a longer-lasting clean compared to high-pressure washing alone.
6. Use Cases: Common applications of soft washing include cleaning roofs, house sidings, decks, fences, and other surfaces that can be damaged by high pressure. It's particularly recommended for surfaces like asphalt shingle roofs, where high-pressure washing could dislodge granules and reduce the lifespan of the roof.

Soft washing is an important technique in the pressure washing industry, providing a safer and often more effective alternative for cleaning sensitive surfaces.