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Soft Washing vs. Pressure Washing: Choosing the Right Method for your Property

  • Writer: Ryan Hern
    Ryan Hern
  • Mar 28
  • 2 min read

Updated: Sep 20

When it comes to keeping your home’s exterior clean and looking its best, you have two primary options: Soft Washing and Pressure Washing. While both methods are effective, they serve different purposes. At Bayside Clean we use both techniques to ensure your home gets the best care possible.


Soft Washing-What’s the Difference?

Pressure Washing: High-Pressure Power for Hard Surfaces.

Orange Easy-Kleen Grizzly Series pressure washer with red Honda engine and stainless tank, set against a black background.
High Pressure - Hot & Cold Washing

Pressure washing relies on high-pressure water to blast away dirt, grime, and buildup. This method is ideal for tough surfaces like:


Concrete Driveways

Pool Decks | Patios

Brick, Flag Stone, Concrete

Sidewalks

Snow falls lightly over an empty swimming pool with a slide, surrounded by trees and a small building. Overcast sky and brick patio.
Before Pressure Washing
A backyard pool with a slide surrounded by trees and a fence under a cloudy sky. A red umbrella adds color. It's a serene, overcast day.
After Cleaning

Because of the high pressure involved, this technique works well on durable materials that can withstand the force. However, using high pressure on delicate surfaces—like siding, soffits, or roofs—can cause damage, water intrusion, or even structural issues over time.

Professional Soft Wash System
Soft Washing - Low Pressure Cleaning

Soft Washing uses low pressure, less water, and professional detergents to break down dirt, mold, algae, and mildew at

the root. This method is perfect for cleaning:


All Types of Siding

Soffits and Gutters

Decks and Fences

✅ Cedar or Asphalt Shingles

Side view of a house with green algae on beige siding, two windows, a clear sky, and leafy plants in the foreground, creating a neglected look.
Before Soft Wash Application
Side view of a beige house with vinyl siding and two windows, shown against a clear blue sky. Pipes and a meter are visible at the base.
After Application
Moss-covered roof with shingles, surrounded by lush green trees. A brick chimney is visible, creating a rustic outdoor setting.
Heavy Moss Growth
Shingled roof with chimney, surrounded by lush green trees on a sunny day. Calm and serene outdoor setting. No visible text.
After Roof Wash

Unlike pressure washing, which relies on force, Soft Washing uses specialized cleaning solutions that penetrate and kill organic growth. This results in a longer-lasting clean without the risk of damage.


Why Soft Washing is the Best Choice for Siding, Roofs, and More


Gentle but Effective: Soft washing won’t strip paint, splinter wood, or crack siding.


Kills Algae, Moss, Mold and Mildew: Unlike pressure washing, which only removes surface grime, soft washing eliminates organic growth at its source.


Long-Lasting Results: Because it treats the root cause of staining (mold, mildew, algae), surfaces stay cleaner for longer.


Uses Less Water: With the addition of professional detergents, Soft Washing requires less water than pressure washing, making it a more eco-friendly option.

Wooden deck with weathered boards, beige house with large windows and chimney. Blue sky with clouds in background, serene setting.
Before Cleaning
A modern house with large windows, gray siding, and a freshly varnished wooden deck under a clear blue sky.
After Cleaning

The Right Method for the Right Job


At Bayside, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why we use pressure washing for hard surfaces like concrete and pool decks, while reserving Soft Washing for more delicate areas like siding, soffits, and roofs. This ensures the best results without unnecessary damage.


Need Professional Exterior Cleaning?


If your home’s exterior needs a refresh, we’ve got you covered! Whether it’s a roof, deck, driveway, or patio, we’ll choose the right cleaning method for the job.



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