What Are Soft Wash Chemicals?
Soft washing is a low-pressure cleaning method that relies on chemical solutions rather than high-pressure water to remove dirt, mold, mildew, algae, and biological growth from surfaces. It's the preferred method for roofs, siding, painted wood, and stucco where high pressure would cause damage.
Professional soft wash chemicals are concentrated formulas that are diluted on-site. Buying the right power washing supplies — including quality chemicals — is the difference between a job that lasts 6 months and one that lasts 3 years.
⚠️ Safety Warning
Always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and appropriate PPE when handling sodium hypochlorite and other chemical concentrates. Follow all SDS guidelines.
Core Soft Wash Chemicals Explained
1. Sodium Hypochlorite (SH)
Sodium hypochlorite is the primary active ingredient in professional soft washing. Unlike household bleach (3–6%), professional-grade SH is available at 10–12.5% concentration, providing far greater efficacy per gallon.
| Application | SH Concentration | Dilution Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roof Cleaning | 10–12.5% | 2:1 (SH:Water) | Add surfactant |
| House Siding | 10–12.5% | 4:1 (SH:Water) | Pre-wet plants |
| Concrete (Light) | 10–12.5% | 6:1 (SH:Water) | Rinse thoroughly |
| Wood Decks | 10–12.5% | 8:1 (SH:Water) | Neutralize after |
| Fences | 10–12.5% | 6:1 (SH:Water) | Protect surroundings |
Buy sodium hypochlorite in bulk at shop.powerwashing.com — available in 5-gallon jugs and 55-gallon drums.
2. Surfactants
Surfactants (surface-active agents) are added to soft wash mixes to reduce surface tension, improve wetting, and help solutions cling to vertical surfaces longer. Without surfactants, bleach solutions run off roofs and siding before they have time to work.
Non-Ionic Surfactants
General purpose — works with most chemical mixes
Elemonator, Snotty Sniper
Cationic Surfactants
Antimicrobial properties — great for mold/algae
Quat-based products
Anionic Surfactants
Heavy-duty degreasing applications
SLS, SLES blends
3. Degreasers
Degreasers are alkaline or solvent-based cleaners formulated to break down grease, oil, and hydrocarbon residues. They're essential for commercial kitchen cleaning, fleet washing, gas station aprons, and industrial concrete.
Alkaline Degreasers
pH 9–13. Safe for most surfaces. Used in most commercial pressure washing applications. Dilute with hot water for best results.
Solvent-Based Degreasers
Strongest option for heavy oil and grease. Requires special handling and disposal. Use in well-ventilated areas only.
Citrus Degreasers
Biodegradable, environmentally friendly option. Less aggressive but safe for residential use and near plants.
Roof Cleaning Chemicals
Roof cleaning is one of the most lucrative and technically demanding applications in the soft washing industry. The ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association) recommends low-pressure chemical cleaning — never high-pressure blasting — for asphalt shingles.
Standard Roof Cleaning Mix
60%
SH (12.5%)
35%
Water
5%
Surfactant
Apply at 40–60 PSI. Dwell time: 15–20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water.
Chemical Safety & Handling
Working with concentrated chemicals requires strict safety protocols. Every professional contractor should have a complete safety program that includes proper PPE, chemical storage, spill response, and employee training.
Storage
Store in cool, dark location
Keep away from direct sunlight
Use HDPE containers only
Never mix with ammonia or acids
Personal Protection
Chemical-resistant nitrile gloves
Safety goggles or face shield
Rubber apron or coveralls
Respirator in enclosed spaces
Spill Response
Dilute immediately with large amounts of water
Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate
Contain runoff from storm drains
Report large spills to local authorities
Application Safety
Pre-wet surrounding plants
Protect metal surfaces
Never apply in direct sunlight
Always rinse thoroughly after dwell time
Related Guides
Order Professional Soft Wash Chemicals
Sodium hypochlorite, surfactants, degreasers, and complete soft wash kits available at shop.powerwashing.com. Bulk drum pricing available.
Browse Chemicals at shop.powerwashing.com